Nissan launched the sixth technology Altima for the 2019 mannequin yr, and it was a significant enchancment over the outgoing mannequin. Sadly, it was rapidly overshadowed by newer mid-size sedan entrants launched quickly after. The 2023 Nissan Altima arrives as a facelifted mannequin with daring styling, hoping to attract patrons again to the Japanese model in the course of a lineup rejuvenation.
DrivingOnRoad spent per week within the sportiest Altima SR VC-Turbo to seek out out if this mid-cycle refresh can put the Nissan again into the dialog with stellar choices just like the Kia K5, Hyundai Sonata, and Toyota Camry.
The SR Appears to be like Scorching
There was nothing unsuitable with the Altima earlier than if you happen to appreciated nondescript sedans, however we should admit Nissan did a great job with the 2023 facelift. The Altima will get a recent model of Nissan’s V-Movement grille with the up to date model brand that is spreading throughout the lineup. Nissan added some new colours to the palette, together with our tester’s distinctive Grey Sky Pearl ($395). This distinctive shade has a blueish tint in sure lights and makes the Altima stand out from extra fundamentals whites and grays.
Stepping all the way in which as much as the SR VC-Turbo brings in some sweet-looking grey 19-inch wheels that look a bit like a shuriken blade. These wheels are non-compulsory on some decrease trims for $1,100. Mixed with black chrome accents, orange trim badges, and a delicate trunk spoiler, the SR seems to be extra aggressive than any earlier Altima (apart from the discontinued SE-R).
The Ariya Display
Nissan did not change a lot contained in the Altima, however the huge addition is a brand new 12.3-inch HD touchscreen changing the previous eight-inch unit on all however the base S trim (non-compulsory on SV). This display packs the identical software program discovered within the Ariya electrical crossover, that means it has extra fashionable graphics and options corresponding to Amazon Alexa, wi-fi CarPlay, and Android Auto. Solely the 360-degree digital camera with low-res graphics carries over.
This single change could warrant upgrading from a 2022 Altima in order for you the newest know-how in your automobile. The interface is much superior to even latest Nissan merchandise just like the Armada, which makes use of an older system locked right into a ineffective split-screen structure.
An Infiniti Engine Or AWD
Nissan solely provides the Altima with two engines, a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder or a turbocharged variant with variable compression know-how. The previous is obtainable with all-wheel drive, whereas the latter is FWD-only. Each ship energy to a constantly variable transmission. We have examined the VC-Turbo setup within the pre-facelift Altima and numerous Infiniti fashions and got here away pondering it is an okay powertrain that feels extra compelling on the Nissan value level.
It produces 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft on this utility, placing the Altima behind on horsepower however comparatively aggressive on torque within the phase. Due to the variable compression know-how, the engine can run a 14:1 compression ratio to realize 25/34/29 mpg metropolis/freeway/mixed, besting its V6 and turbocharged rivals in effectivity. Although we thought the VC-Turbo felt missing within the Infiniti utility, right here it gives such easy acceleration you possibly can go away a cease mild with a full cup of water in hand and never spill a drop. Consumers searching for easy passing energy with no hesitation could get pleasure from this setup, however lovers who need fast shifts from a geared transmission ought to look elsewhere.
A Soft Experience
Very like the powertrain, the Altima’s suspension is tuned for consolation and smoothness. Nissan says the SR will get particular suspension tuning, however the considerable physique roll and lack of grip from the tires made it robust to take the Altima significantly as a “sporty” driving expertise. The Altima wasn’t designed as a driver’s sedan, however as a snug cruiser, it is extremely compelling. It delivers a soft experience with restricted street or wind noise as freeway speeds. On the freeway, Nissan’s ProPILOT Help (commonplace on SL and SR VC-Turbo or non-compulsory on SV) is without doubt one of the finest driver-assist packages in a mainstream sedan. It retains you within the lane and gives glorious adaptive cruise management.
The seats themselves are extraordinarily tender, making use of NASA-inspired zero-gravity know-how. Our few complaints are a scarcity of ventilated seats (an possibility discovered on a number of rivals) and a again seat that is a bit small for the phase.
Verdict: A Sturdy Worth Choice
Pricing for the 2023 Nissan Altima S begins at $25,290, that means it is without doubt one of the most reasonably priced mid-size sedans in the marketplace, however the Kia K5, Hyundai Sonata, and Subaru Legacy undercut it. AWD could be added to the SV ($26,090), SR ($27,490), and SL ($31,990) trims for a further $1,500. If you need the extra highly effective engine, there’s just one method to get it, a range-topping SR VC-Turbo trim for $34,990. Whereas not a strictly sporty possibility, we respect the turbo’s great torque, which makes for fairly easy acceleration.
General, there are nonetheless stronger choices within the mid-size sedan phase, however all of Nissan’s adjustments for the 2023 Altima lead to a web optimistic enchancment that will make us extra prepared to advocate it. It will not be the best-in-class, however the Altima has come a great distance from its former standing as a rental automobile particular, and there’s a lot right here to get pleasure from.