2020 Nissan Altima

The price of the Nissan Altima is pretty much run-of-the-mill for the class. So how much will each model cost? The base-spec S comes in at an MSRP of $24,100, the sporty SR at a price of $25,700, and the well-equipped SV at a price of $27,880. While pricing for the SL exceeds the $30k mark with its sticker price of $30,240, the up-charge to the Platinum isn't too daunting with its price at $32,180. Those are all excluding Nissan's destination and handling charge of $895 as well as any tax, registration, or licensing fees. Optioning on the Intelligent AWD powertrain to any model will throw $1,350 to the base price. Additionally, it'll cost an extra $4,050 to equip the SR with the turbo-four engine and an extra $3,000 to equip the Platinum with it.

There's really not much in terms of driving enjoyment from the Altima, and even the SR model, which comes equipped with 19-inch wheels and a sport-tuned suspension to make it a little more capable through the bends, isn't quite as enjoyable or poised as either the Honda Accord or the Mazda 6. The Altima's controls and handling dynamics can be best described as ideal for casual driving standards with its vague and always light steering feel. The steering's responses are otherwise appreciably quick. In terms of handling, it does show some prowess through fast, sweeping turns; its composure, stability, and grip providing just enough confidence for some spirited driving maneuvers. The brakes are also pretty effective, delivering adequate levels of stopping power without disrupting the sedan's poise.

In terms of ride quality, the Altima delivers a refined experience, avoiding the reverberations expected from broken road surfaces and undulations. The larger wheels and sport-tuned suspension in the SR and Platinum models, however, noticeably reduce ride quality, firming up the feel on the road and taking harder knocks from common road snags.

Though the Nissan Altima is a car that doesn't necessarily turn heads or elevate heart rates, it is still one of the more attractive looking midsize sedans in the USA and one that delivers a slightly better than average driving experience, touching on both sporty and comfortable. Its powertrain isn't really the most refined, but still performs competently while also delivering admirable gas mileage. The optional 2.0-liter turbo-four engine is pretty appealing, too, and works well in the sport-oriented SR grade Altima with its sport-tuned suspension and manual shift drive mode, making for a relatively enjoyable driving experience accompanied by the performance and handling capability to do just that. Moving to the cabin of the Altima unveils its penchant for comfort: it's a modern and commodious space packed with features and technology most modern buyers would demand. Its infotainment system is comprehensive and it's also expansively geared with driver-assists and safety equipment, making it one of the safest vehicles on the road - both the NHTSA and the IIHS concur. There are better midsize sedans out there, such as the Honda Accord for example, but the Nissan Altima is no regrettable option and is a solid choice as a daily family commuter.

If you're looking for a well-balanced, featureful, and safe family-sedan, then the Altima SV grade equipped with the fuel-efficient 2.5-liter turbo engine, heated steering wheel and front seats, power-sliding moonroof, and dual-zone automatic climate control is an exceptional option that won't break the bank. This model also comes with a few more driver-assist features on top of the already inclusive Safety Shield 360 driver-assist suite. While the SR grade would be a good pick for those who seek something a little sporty, its ride quality is severely diminished, which is why sticking to the SV is recommended. The use of the base engine might mean it lacks power, but those in cold-weather climates can select all-wheel-drive, further bolstering the value for money proposition on this trim.

While the Altima technically fits into a smaller class than the Maxima, it's a lot newer and has also grown to be bigger in size overall, resulting in a more commodious cabin, not to mention a trunk with a full cubic-foot of extra space in comparison to the Maxima's. If anything, the Maxima only offers advantages in straight-line performance, its 300-hp V6 engine accelerates it from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds, which is quicker than the Altima with either of its powertrains. The Altima's powertrains are vastly more refined though, the more powerful of the two delivering similar performance, and both delivering far better gas mileage. In terms of features, buyers get a whole lot more in the Altima, and at a far lower price, especially with Nissan's full Safety Shield 360 bundle standard. Ultimately, the Altima offers far greater value for money at this point in time, the Maxima is simply in dire need of an extensive update.

Think back to your school days: did you have that incredibly hot girl with the perfect cutesy personality, boundless talent, and superhuman-like intelligence? The teacher's pet in other words that also looked like the girl next door… well, that's the Honda Accord in the automotive world and, in this case, the Nissan Altima is the dumbstruck pimply guy drooling in his seat at the back of the class. Two more powerful and refined turbocharged engines, an available six-speed manual gearbox, and exceptional performance and handling capability are just the tip of the iceberg with the Accord. Not only is it far more enjoyable and capable on the road, but a little more fuel-efficient too, delivering 30/38/33 mpg in its most efficient guise. The Accord's cabin is more commodious too, comprised of higher-grade materials, and, at the higher-specced trims, a whole lot more creature comforts. It has a larger 16.7 cubic-foot trunk as well. The Honda Accord isn't available with AWD, though, but considering that the base price is similar to the Altima, it's still the better vehicle and better value for money buy.