2017 Nissan Altima Pros vs Cons

For good reason, the Nissan Altima remains as one of the best selling midsize cars on the market today. Families appreciate its roomy interior and comfortable seats. While the base model is a good option for budget-minded car shoppers, the sporty SR trim will appeal to the drivers who desire a more fun driving experience. Everyone will grow to appreciate the Altima’s impressive safety scores.

What’s New for 2017?

Nissan decided not to make any notable changes to the 2017 Nissan Altima. Keep in mind that last year’s model received several key updates.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2017 Nissan Altima – The Pros

1. Satisfying Base Engine

Because of its peppy performance, most drivers will stick with the base 4 cylinder engine. It delivers a fulfilling 182 horses and 180 lb feet of torque. All versions of the sedan come equipped with Nissan’s Xtronic CVT, which does a good job of transferring the available power. Brisk acceleration makes the 4 cylinder Altima an especially good choice.

2. Very Strong V-6 Engine

Although Nissan’s VQ Series engine has been around for quite some time, it is still a very impressive power source. The popular V6 engine develops a muscular 270 horses and 251 lb feet of torque. With a quick 0-60 time of 6.1 seconds, the Altima has no trouble keeping up with the competition. When accelerating, drivers will immediately notice the the extra grunt under the hood.

3. Good on Gas

Drivers will certainly like the Altima’s fuel-efficient design. The CVT transmission helps conserve extra fuel. When equipped with the base engine, the Altima delivers 27 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. Even the potent V-6 Altima can return up to 32 mpg. All models are designed to burn regular unleaded fuel.

4. Fun SR Model

Introduced last year, the Altima SR is the perfect choice for the drivers who crave a bit more sportiness. Although the SR model does not produce more power, a sports-tuned suspension makes it more fun to drive on twisty roads. You can also take advantage of the paddle shifters, which allow the CVT to simulate the gear shifts of a traditional automatic transmission.

5. Smooth Styling

A powerful V-Motion grille helps separate the 2017 Nissan Altima from today’s other family sedans. All of the V-6 models feature twin exhaust tips. An aerodynamic rear spoiler and an exclusive set of 18-inch wheels give the Atima SR an even sportier look. Meanwhile, LED headlights come equipped on the top-of-the-line Altima 3.5 SL.

6. Comfortable Family Vehicle

Your family will like taking road trips in the 2017 Nissan Altima. Numerous car reviewers have raved about the Altima’s comfortable seats. Heated seats are offered on the higher trim levels. The available interior room is outstanding. No one should complain about a lack of legroom. When loading groceries, the Altima’s wide trunk opening will come in handy.

7. Strong Predicted Reliability

The 2017 Nissan Altima is expected to offer above-average reliability. You are unlikely to spend a lot of time in the repair shop. Its engine and transmission have a reputation for being mechanically sound. It is a family sedan that you depend upon on an everyday basis. All models benefit from a 60,0000-mile powertrain warranty.

8. Good Value

Prices for the Nissan Altima start at $22,500. This is a good deal for such a well-built sedan. Some of the standard components include a push-button ignition, Bluetooth technology, and a CD player. Meanwhile, the MSRP for the upscale 3.5 SL is $32,690. You will be rewarded with a number of premium features, including a nine-speaker Bose sound system and a Google-based navigation system.

9. Standard Advanced Driver-Assist Display

Even the base Nissan Altima comes equipped with an Advanced Drive-Assist Display. It is currently among the best instrument clusters in the family sedan segment. Featuring a 4.3-inch LCD screen, the system allows you to access important data such as driving directions and caller ID.

10. Top-Tier Safety

Like most of its main rivals, the 2017 Nissan Altima was able to score a five-star safety rating. This means that the sedan will provide your family with great crash protection. Aside from the base model, all of the other trims come standard with a backup camera. Blind-spot monitoring and automatic braking technology are available as well.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2017 Nissan Altima – The Cons

1. Does Not Offer a Manual Transmission

If you are the type of driver who prefers a manual transmission, you are out of luck with the Nissan Altima. It only comes with a continuous variable transmission. Keep in mind that family sedans such as the Honda Accord and the Mazda6 continue to offer a manual gearbox.

2. No AWD System

You can expect the 2017 Nissan Altima to perform well in most driving conditions. However, the lack of an AWD system will likely pose a problem in heavy snow. You will need to check out a midsize car such as the Subaru Legacy.

3. Above-Average Interior Noise

Most people will find the Altima’s interior to be relatively quiet. Nevertheless, you may notice a bit of extra road and wind noise. This is especially true when traveling on a rough highway.

How it stacks up to the competition:

Some of the Altima’s key rivals include the Mazda6 and the Toyota Camry. In terms of acceleration, the V-6 Altima is quicker than any version of the Mazda6. In comparison to the Toyota Camry, the Altima’s superior seat comfort gives it an advantage.

Conclusion:

The 2017 Nissan Altima has very few weaknesses as a family hauler. Its impressive passenger comfort and strong performance will keep you satisfied. If you crave a more engaging driving experience, the sporty SR will be your best choice. A five-star safety rating makes the Altima an especially satisfying choice.