We spend some seat time in Nissan's midsize offering at the 2015 Midwest Automotive Media Association spring rally in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
Pros:
Slick looking interior
Above average styling
Interior noise levels
Cons:
Numb steering
Average handling
Buzz kill CVT transmission
2015 Nissan Altima
Nissan's latest Altima was unveiled at the 2012 New York Auto Show and went on-sale later that spring as a 2013 model. For calendar year 2014, it finished in third place in the midsize car segment, ahead of the Ford Fusion while trailing both the Honda Accord and segment leader Toyota Camry.
Since 2015 marks just the third year of production, only a few minor enhance were made.
The changes for 2015 include the addition of NissanConnect with Navigation and Mobile Apps, Blind Spot Warning, Moving Object Detection and Lane Departure Warning as standard fare.
There's also a new SE Hybrid trim with projector-beam headlights, sport mesh grille, 17-inch graphite alloy wheels, rear spoiler, sport-tuned suspension and smoked chrome upper grill and rear trunk trim.
Altima SV models receive standard fog lights and an 8-way power driver's seat with power lumbar while a 4-way power front passenger seat is now standard on SL models. In addition, SL and SV models equipped with remote engine start now get automatic climate control.
There's also a new Special Edition Package that comes with 6-way power driver's seat NissanConnect with Mobile Apps, 5.0-inch color display, hands-free text messaging, satellite radio with rear view camera, 16-inch alloy wheels, remote engine start system, trunk-mounted spoiler and, (ta-da!), a Special Edition badge.
Notably absent from the lineup this year are V6 versions of both the S and SV.
Exterior
Outside the 2015 Altima is unchanged, which is not necessarily a bad thing. It's a decent-looking sedan from nearly any angle, but especially the front. And although its hindquarters could use a bit more character, it certainly isn't offensive.
Interior
The interior, however, is where this midsize sedan really shines. The two-toned cabin feature soft-touch surfaces with the judicious use of brushed silver trim reminiscent of an Audi interior. All controls are simple, straightforward and within easy reach of the driver. Even the cloth seats are couple of steps above average.
Views out the front, sides and back are impressive, and there's plenty of room in the back seat for three adults.
Under the hood
Our tester was equipped with Nissan's QR25DE 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that produces an impressive 182 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 180 lb.-ft. of torque, also at 6,000 rpm. It's mated to the only transmission available, a CVT sans manual shift model.
The combination results in an EPA estimated fuel economy at a fairly impressive 27/38/31 city/highway/combined.
On the road
On the highway, road, tire, wind and engine noise is fairly muted. The ride is also very compliant and the Altima handles everything from minor road imperfections to potholes with ease. But while acceleration is brisk, you really have to keep your right foot planted in order to keep things moving as the CVT wants to keep those engine rpm's down.
In addition to a rev-unhappy transmission, very little in the way of feedback finds its way to the steering wheel. Feedback through the brake pedal is also lacking and throwing the Altima into corners also produces more than what we've come to expect from midsize sedans in the way of body lean.
In short, the Altima is not what you would call a sporty sedan.
Pricing
2015 Altima prices start at $23,125 for an S and can top out at over $35,000 for a fully optioned and accessorized 3.5 SL V6. Our Cayenne Red SV tester had a base price of $24,720. A 1,350 convenience package and $1,090 technology package plus an $825 destination and handling fee brought the total MSRP to $27,985.
The Bottom Line
There's a lot to like about the 2015 Nissan Altima. It has likeable styling, a quiet interior and a smooth ride that would make long trips a breeze.
On the other hand, the ride is merely comfortable, not sporty, both its handling and braking are barely average and its styling, though improved over the previous generation, is hardly what you would call distinctive.
So while owners of the previous-generation model will probably be pleased, there are certainly other midsize sedans out there – most notably the Ford Fusion and Mazda Mazda6, that offer more style and entertainment for your dollar.
