The Altima is in a tight spot right now: it’s only been 3 years since the model’s complete redesign, however, the competition is not sleeping on it and the market is more crowded than ever. In that short time the rivals managed to outrun the Nissan sedan, so, for the 2016 model year the company decided to climb back onto the pedestal. This time we’ll get a healthy update to exterior design and styling, a line-up of technological equipment and features and a brand-new (and sporty) trim – SR.
The latest V-shaped front grilles give the Nissan Altima 2016 an up-to-date look, and, in combination with sharp head-/tail-lights, we’ve got ourselves a modern-day mid-size sedan with attractive looks. Plus, the new edition offers all kinds of safety equipment, including automatic braking, forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control, which is a pretty appealing offer for the customers.
Strong Performance Vs Outdated Tech And Materials
The bad part is, the interior didn’t really get as much attention as the exterior, and we’re still stuck with the same old routine. Even though there are some contemporary techy features in the latest Altima, the outdated infotainment system is not really worth your time – it’s old news compared to what the market has to offer.
The material/finishing quality is no better, and that’s a pretty big downside if you put comfort and quality above everything else. On the other hand, if you’re all about strong performance, the Nissan Altima 2016 will be a good pick for you, as it boasts impressive engine might and solid fuel-efficiency both for the entry-level 4-cyl and the optional V6. The 2.5-lit four-cylinder is good for 182HP and 180 lb-ft of torque. It’s FWD (front-wheel drive) paired to CVT (continuously variable transmission) with simulated stepped gears so you won’t have any problems getting used to it.
Nissan Altima 2016: Fuel-Efficient And Quick Engines
Fuel economy, as mentioned above, is superb: the car returns 39 miles per gallon on the highway and 27MPG in the city (31MPG combined). The Nissan Altima 2016 with the 2.5-liter goes from zero to 60 miles per hour in quick 7.8 seconds, and that’s a better than average result for a mid-size sedan.
The second engine – the strong 3.5-lit V6 is capable of 270 Horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque. With this powertrain the Altima jumps that 0-to-60MPH marathon in 6.2 seconds! The V6 returns 32MPG hwy/22MPG city (26MPG combined). That’s more than impressive for this class, but acceleration that quick is not really quite important to a family, you know? Yes, it’s a nice addition, like the sporty design of the Mazda 6, for example, but nothing vital. On the other hand, if you want to feel the rush on the road while still taking care of your family’s needs, the Nissan Altima 2016 will be the perfect pick on the market. Other than that, I recommend going for the Camry/Accord.
Not What It Used To Be
So, in all fairness, the current-gen Altima is not as hot as it was back in 2013. Don’t get me wrong, it’s still one hell of a sedan, but when you compare it to the market leaders, the Nissan model doesn’t have anything competitive to offer. The good thing about it is you’ll get a choice between 5 trim levels: standard, S, SR (that’s the new sporty trim), SV and SL.
Flexibility and versatility is very important these days, so, that’s +1 for the Altima.
The SR level comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned transmission, sporty seats, running lights, foglights and more. Quite the bunch, if you ask me.
However, you gotta keep in mind that even with all those nice features the latest Nissan Altima 2016 is still not a match for the Mazda 6 in terms of having fun behind the wheel and boasting a sporty design.
Watch this video Test Drive: 2016 Nissan Altima
