2019 Nissan Altima

THE AUTO PAGE

By

John Heilig

• MODEL: 2019 Nissan Altima SV
• ENGINE: 2.5-liter DOHC I-4 
• TRANSMISSION: Xtronic CVT
• HORSEPOWER/TORQUE: 188 hp @ 6,000 rpm/180 lb.-ft. @ 3,600 rpm 
• WHEELBASE: 111.0 in.  
• LENGTH X WIDTH X HEIGHT: 192.9 x 72.9 x 56.8 in. 
• TIRES: P215/55R17  
• CARGO CAPACITY: 15.4 cu. ft. 
• ECONOMY: 28 mpg city/39 mpg highway/28.2 mpg test 
• FUEL TANK: 16.2 gal. 
• CURB WEIGHT: 3,265 lbs.
• TOWING CAPACITY: Not recommended 
• COMPETITIVE CLASS: Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu 
• STICKER: $29,020 (includes $885 delivery, $205 options)

            Nissan is rightly proud of the economy of the mid-size Altima. I remember when they introduced the previous version of the sedan, they bragged about the car’s 38 mpg highway economy. That has improved to 39 mpg, but overall our test figure was 28.2 mpg, a very good number. 

            You would think that with such decent economy figures - and our prime driving was local with almost no economy-boosting highway miles - the car would be an econobox, small and under powered. Nah! The Altima has more than enough power from the 2.5-liter inline four and CVT transmission. It’s rated at 188 horsepower and 180 lb.-ft. of torque. While it’s the same size as the previous engine, the 2.5-liter is a total redesign. the result offers adequate power for all occasions and good acceleration.

            Sadly, we weren’t able to take longer trips, because I’m certain the Altima would be comfortable on extended rides. The seats are comfortable, and legroom is good for front and rear passengers. Our tester had cloth-surfaced seats that were heated. Also, the flat-bottomed wheel was heated and we needed it in frigid weather. We found the Altima to be quiet over most road surfaces

            Exterior styling is updated and the Altima looks good heading down the road. The all-black interior, however, is rather bland. It could use some three dimensional styling and wood or mental trim highlights. Also, there was reflection from the top of the dash in bright sunlight. That’s a good location for a heads up display sender.

            Dimensionally, the new Altima is 1.1 inches lower, 1.0 inch longer and 0.9 inch wider than the previous version.

            The instrument panel is clear with the standard tachometer and speedometer and an information panel in between. We chose a digital speedometer from among the information panel choices.  In addition, there is a clear infotainment screen. The audio system  is good with the standard choices including standard Apple Carplay and Android Auto. 

            As with most mid-size sedans, there is a very good trunk. In addition, the rear seat back releases are in the trunk. I prefer this location because it’s easier to increase trunk capacity when you suddenly discover you need it.

            The Altima is equipped with standard blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning and intelligent driver alert. Shift into reverse and you get the standard rear view camera view plus a 360 degree “overhead” view. The only option on our tester was splash guards ($250).

            Overall, the Nissan Altima is a strong competitor in its segment. Styling is very good, the ride is comfortable and quiet, and the economy is very good. 

(c) 2019 The Auto Page Syndicate