[Test Drive] Nissan Altima, a 'Family Sedan' Highlighted by Solid Fundamentals

Spacious Interior Is an Advantage... Interior and Display Are Disappointing
2.0 Turbo, Maximum Output 252 Horsepower and Maximum Torque 38.7 kg·m Performance

New Nissan Altima (Photo by Korea Nissan)

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Ji-hee] The mid-size sedan segment is considered the most competitive class in the domestic automobile market. First, domestic models like Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5, which compete for best-selling car rankings, firmly hold their ground in the market. Imported car brands have also invested significant effort in this segment over a long period. Even Japanese automakers fill this lineup with representative models such as the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. And another representative Japanese mid-size sedan is the Nissan Altima.

In July last year, Nissan launched the completely redesigned 6th generation Altima into the fiercely competitive domestic mid-size sedan market. We took the new Altima, now in its 7th month since release, for a test drive. The test vehicle was the top trim 2.0 Turbo model.

The Altima’s exterior design features Nissan’s signature ‘V-Motion’ grille prominently on the front. The V-shaped grille connects with sharp headlamps to create a dynamic image. The side profile harmonizes three-dimensional lines and surfaces, making the vehicle appear sleeker and longer.

The body dimensions are 4900 mm in length and 1445 mm in height, 25 mm longer and 25 mm lower than the previous model. The wheelbase has also increased by 50 mm, securing a spacious interior, a key consideration for family sedans. Even when the front seats are pushed back generously, the rear seats do not feel cramped.

New Nissan Altima (Photo by Korea Nissan)

The interior is neither flashy nor sophisticated. The simple layout with large buttons gives a somewhat plain impression. The horizontal design creates a sense of spaciousness relative to the vehicle size, which is an advantage.

The 8-inch color display in the center of the interior felt somewhat small compared to other recently released new cars. Through the display, the ‘Intelligent Around View Monitor’ function provides a 360-degree bird’s-eye view video of the vehicle. Although the image quality is relatively low, using it during actual parking did not pose any significant difficulty in recognizing the surroundings. The touch response also feels somewhat outdated.

The new Altima is equipped with a ‘Bose Premium Audio System.’ The nine speakers allowed for enjoying rich sound while driving. The 2.0 Turbo model also includes paddle shifters and active noise cancellation.

Once driving started, the solid fundamentals of the new Altima were evident. Pressing the accelerator pedal made the body move with a substantial feel. Applying more power to increase speed resulted in smooth acceleration without compromising stability. The steering response in curves was also excellent. The Altima 2.0 Turbo model is equipped with the world’s first developed and mass-produced 2.0 Turbo variable compression ratio engine. It delivers a maximum output of 252 horsepower and a peak torque of 38.7 kg·m, with a combined fuel efficiency of 12.2 km/l.

The ride comfort is also suitable for a family sedan. Even when passing over uneven road surfaces, shocks are not strongly felt. Particularly impressive is how well engine noise is blocked.

The new Altima’s prices are 29.9 million KRW for the 2.5 Smart, 35.9 million KRW for the 2.5 SL TECH, and 41.9 million KRW for the 2.0 Turbo. Although the turbo model tested is on the pricier side, the Smart trim in the 20 million KRW range is expected to receive favorable evaluations in terms of price competitiveness.