DESCRIPTION

Pros:

• Strong V6 engine
• Basic but comfortable interior built with quality materials
• Responsive handling and steering
• Handsome exterior styling which looks good as a coupe or sedan

Cons:

• Backseat comfort is not very good
• Confusing options list

Ruling: The Nissan Altima Sedan offers performance, comfort, safety, and economy in a good looking package.

The 2011 Nissan Altima Sedan is available in three well-equipped models: the 2.5 CVT and 2.5 S CVT with standard 175-horsepower 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder, and the 3.5 SR CVT with a 270-horsepower 3.5-liter V6.

A 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve QR25 inline 4-cylinder, producing 175 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque gets an estimated 23 mpg in the city and up to 32 mpg on the highway with the CVT.

The 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 is rated at 270 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque and offers strong acceleration and refined sound quality. Estimated fuel economy for the 3.5-liter engine mated to the CVT is 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The 6-speed manual gets an estimated 18 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.

The 2010 model year Altima Sedan received a significant number of enhancements -- including a restyled hood, grille, front bumper, and aluminum alloy wheel designs. The changes provided a greater distinction between the Altima Sedan and Altima Coupe. The Altima Sedan and Altima Coupe may share the same hood design, but all other body panels are unique to their respective models.

For 2011, the Altima Sedan retains its signature hood, grille and front bumper, along with projector beam headlights and standard 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Altima 3.5 SR models offer standard 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. An aerodynamic rear spoiler is offered as part of the new Special Edition Package, along with fog lights, auto on/off headlights and leather-wrapped steering wheels with audio controls.

The 2011 Altima Sedan comes equipped with a number of standard safety features, including the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors, front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.