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
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