2014 Nissan Altima Pros vs Cons

Ranked as one of the 10 best affordable midsize cars in the country by U.S. News and World Report, the 2014 Nissan Altima is a great option for almost any buyer.

10 reasons you might want to Buy a 2014 Nissan Altima

1. Excellent Gas Mileage
If you are concerned about fuel economy but aren't ready to make the switch to the hybrid vehicle, the 2014 Altima is one of the best options on the market. It's the lightest midsize sedan in its class and boasts 38 miles per gallon for the four-cylinder model. Drivers who want more power can choose the optional V6, which still offers impressive economy among similar vehicles.

2. Fun to Drive with Quick Handling
So you need a family car, but you think sedans are boring to drive. Think again--Nissan has redesigned the power train for the 2014 Altima with an eye toward smooth acceleration and the ability to handle even the fastest turns with unprecedented speed and accuracy. Credit for this innovation goes to the car's continuously-variable automatic transmission and advanced multi-link rear suspension.

3. Beautiful Exterior Styling
While the Altima has not traditionally been known for having an upscale body, that changed with last year's complete overhaul of the vehicle. Not only is the Altima now closer to the flagship Maxima model that's a class above, it can also compete with luxury cars in its class. Features include simple, flowing lines and arrow-based motifs that call to mind an hourglass shape.

4. Safety Rating and Features
The 2014 Altima received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the highest possible ranking. One exciting safety feature is a tire pressure monitoring system that alerts the driver while he or she is adding air when maximum pressure has been reached. Available safety upgrades include blind-spot monitoring and lane-departure and approaching objects warning systems.

5. Nissan Connect Infotainment System
If you're looking for a car with the latest technology, look no further. The Nissan Connect system integrates seamlessly with apps like Facebook, Pandora, and iHeartRadio, meaning you have the music you love and the information you need at the tap of a screen. The gorgeous color screen and hands-free text messaging feature will appeal to even the most technologically sophisticated buyer.

6. Quality Interior
The stand-out feature of the Altima's expensive-feeling interior is the NASA zero-gravity bucket seats in the front, which are ergonomically designed to mimic the natural posture that humans adapt in a zero-gravity environment. This maximizes comfort and reduces driver fatigue. While cloth seats with black interior accents come standard, leather and metallic or faux wood options are also available.

7. Plenty of Customizable Features
The 2014 Nissan Altima is available in three trim levels with an additional six affordable options package to choose from. This makes it easy to customize the car with the exact features that your family will love. You can select from Sport Value Package, Navigation Package, Technology Package, Convenience Package, and more--not to mention even more stand-alone features to add.

8. A Peaceful Cabin
Nissan's redesigned interior draws from the concept of "bringing the outside in," which has resulted in plenty of space for both passengers and drivers. To add to the airy feel, background and engine noise are greatly reduced, creating a smooth, quiet, and serene ride (at least when you're alone).

9. Value
Named one of the 10 best sedans under $25,000 by Kelley Blue Book, the 2014 Nissan Altima gives plenty of bang for your buck. The starting MSRP for the base model is $22,110, while the features included are comparable with many more expensive sedans.

10. Nissan Reliability
Nissan is a stalwart in the American car market for a reason--its name means cars you can count. The 2014 Altima is no exception, with an above average reliability score from JD Power and Associates.

While the 2014 Nissan Altima is the ideal choice for a wide range of buyers, there are some things that may steer you in another direction. Although the car is a high value, choosing a V6 engine and many options may push the purchase into the $30,000 range. Although fuel economy has been greatly improved since earlier versions of the Altima, buyers looking for a hybrid sedan will have to look elsewhere, as Nissan does not currently offer this option for the Altima. But if you're looking for a car that's family-friendly, reliable, fun to drive and packed with features, the Altima is easily one of the best choices in its class.