2025 Nissan Altima Review

2025 Nissan Altima Review: All-Weather Sedan Innovation and Comfort Leadership

The 2025 Nissan Altima stands uniquely in the midsize sedan segment as the only vehicle offering available all-wheel drive combined with spacious comfort, advanced VC-Turbo engine technology, and comprehensive value that provides all-weather sedan capability without SUV compromises.

Executive Summary

The sixth-generation Nissan Altima represents innovative thinking in the midsize sedan segment, providing the only available all-wheel drive system among traditional sedan competitors while maintaining the fuel efficiency, handling, and affordability advantages that define sedan ownership. Built with Nissan's advanced platform technology and available VC-Turbo engine innovation, the Altima serves buyers who want sedan benefits with all-weather confidence.

Our comprehensive testing reveals a midsize sedan that successfully addresses the primary limitation of sedan ownership – weather capability – while maintaining the efficiency, handling, and value advantages that make sedans appealing. The Altima's unique positioning appeals to buyers who want sedan practicality without weather-related limitations or SUV disadvantages.

All-Weather Innovation: The Altima's available Intelligent AWD system provides the only all-wheel drive capability in the mainstream midsize sedan segment, creating unique value for buyers in snow-belt regions who prefer sedan efficiency and handling over SUV compromises.

VC-Turbo Technology: The available variable compression ratio engine represents cutting-edge technology that provides optimal performance and efficiency by continuously adjusting compression ratio based on driving demands, demonstrating Nissan's commitment to innovative engineering solutions.

Key Specifications

Advanced Engine Technology and All-Weather Performance

Innovative Powertrain Options

The 2025 Altima offers two sophisticated engine options that provide different approaches to midsize sedan performance and efficiency. The standard 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder produces 188 horsepower with smooth, refined operation that emphasizes reliability and fuel economy, while the available 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine provides 248 horsepower with revolutionary variable compression technology.

The VC-Turbo engine represents revolutionary technology that continuously adjusts compression ratio between 8:1 and 14:1 depending on driving conditions, providing the efficiency of a high-compression engine during cruising and the power of a low-compression engine during acceleration. This technology eliminates traditional compromises between performance and efficiency.

Unique All-Wheel Drive Capability

The Altima's available Intelligent AWD system provides the only all-wheel drive capability among mainstream midsize sedans, creating unique value for buyers in regions with challenging weather conditions. The system operates seamlessly, distributing power between front and rear wheels as conditions require while maintaining the fuel economy advantages that attract buyers to sedans.

AWD operation includes multiple drive modes that optimize traction control and power distribution for different conditions, while the system's integration maintains the Altima's sedan character rather than attempting to mimic SUV behavior. This approach preserves the handling and efficiency benefits that define sedan ownership while adding all-weather confidence.

CVT Transmission Refinement

Nissan's Xtronic CVT transmission has been refined through multiple generations to provide smooth, efficient operation while minimizing the disconnected feel that characterizes some continuously variable transmissions. The CVT includes simulated gear steps and manual mode operation that provides more engaging driving character when desired.

Spacious Interior Design and Practical Technology

Comfort-Focused Cabin Excellence

The 2025 Altima's interior prioritizes passenger comfort and practical functionality over luxury flourishes, creating an environment that excels for daily family use and longer road trips. The cabin design emphasizes spaciousness, ease of use, and ergonomic excellence that reduces fatigue during extended driving while providing the comfort advantages that attract families to sedan ownership.

Seating comfort represents one of the Altima's strongest advantages, with Nissan's Zero Gravity seat design that reduces fatigue and provides excellent support during long drives. The seats incorporate sophisticated contouring that accommodates various body types while providing appropriate bolstering for confident cornering without sacrificing daily comfort.

Interior materials demonstrate good quality appropriate for the Altima's value positioning, with soft-touch surfaces covering most areas that occupants regularly contact. Available leather seating feels substantial and well-finished, while trim pieces operate with satisfying precision and appear well-integrated throughout the cabin design.

NissanConnect Technology Integration

The Altima's infotainment system centers around Nissan's NissanConnect platform, featuring either an 8-inch or available 9-inch touchscreen that provides comprehensive functionality with improved responsiveness compared to previous generations. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration provides seamless smartphone connectivity for navigation and entertainment needs.

Available features include wireless device charging, premium Bose audio system, and comprehensive connectivity options that accommodate modern family technology needs. The system's operation emphasizes user-friendly functionality over cutting-edge features, providing reliable operation that families can depend on throughout the ownership period.

Safety Leadership and Nissan Dependability

Comprehensive Safety Performance

The 2025 Altima achieves strong safety ratings that reflect Nissan's commitment to comprehensive protection across all price points. The five-star NHTSA rating demonstrates excellent performance in frontal and side-impact tests, while IIHS ratings acknowledge solid crash protection across multiple test scenarios typical of midsize sedan use.

Standard safety equipment includes six airbags throughout the cabin, including dual-stage frontal airbags, side-impact airbags for front passengers, and side curtain airbags covering both rows. The Altima's body structure incorporates Nissan's Advanced Impact Protection that manages crash energy effectively while maintaining structural integrity.

Nissan Safety Shield 360

Nissan Safety Shield 360 comes standard on all Altima models, providing comprehensive safety technologies that enhance family protection and driver confidence. The automatic emergency braking system includes pedestrian detection and operates effectively across various conditions that families encounter during daily driving and road trips.

Nissan Reliability and Ownership

Nissan's reliability record for recent models has shown improvement, with the current Altima generation benefiting from proven powertrains and simplified electronic systems. The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine represents mature, dependable technology with good long-term durability prospects for family ownership.

Warranty coverage includes Nissan's standard 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage, which is competitive within the midsize sedan segment. The comprehensive coverage provides protection during the crucial early ownership years when most families are still making payments.

Midsize Sedan Competitive Positioning

All-Weather Sedan Advantage

Unique All-Weather Capability: The Altima's AWD availability creates unique value proposition for sedan buyers in snow-belt regions who want car-like efficiency and handling with SUV-like weather confidence. No other mainstream midsize sedan offers this capability.

VC-Turbo Innovation: The variable compression engine technology provides performance and efficiency optimization that no competitor can match, with the ability to operate in the most efficient configuration for current driving demands while providing full power when needed.

Against Honda Accord: The Altima offers available AWD and VC-Turbo technology at competitive pricing, while the Accord provides better fuel economy and Honda reliability reputation. The Altima appeals more to buyers needing all-weather capability.

Against Toyota Camry: The Altima provides unique AWD capability and innovative engine technology, while the Camry offers Toyota reliability and more performance variants. The Altima serves buyers prioritizing all-weather confidence over brand reputation.

All-Weather Technology and Comfort

Intelligent AWD System Analysis

The Intelligent AWD system operates automatically, monitoring wheel slip and road conditions to provide power to the rear wheels when needed while maintaining front-wheel drive efficiency during normal conditions. This approach preserves the fuel economy advantages that attract buyers to sedans while providing confidence during challenging weather conditions.

Comfort and Efficiency Leadership

Zero Gravity Seating Technology

Nissan's Zero Gravity seat design represents advanced ergonomic engineering that reduces fatigue and provides exceptional comfort during long drives. The seats incorporate NASA-inspired contouring that distributes weight evenly while providing support that reduces back strain and enhances comfort for families taking road trips or daily commuting.

Detailed Performance and Driving Dynamics

The 2025 Nissan Altima's performance characteristics reflect its dual nature as both a comfortable family sedan and an innovative all-weather vehicle. The standard 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder delivers smooth, refined acceleration that emphasizes efficiency and reliability, while the available 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine provides significantly enhanced performance with revolutionary variable compression technology.

Nissan's VC-Turbo technology represents a breakthrough in engine design, continuously adjusting compression ratio between 8:1 and 14:1 based on driving demands. During cruising, the engine operates at high compression for maximum efficiency, while during acceleration, it switches to low compression for enhanced power delivery. This eliminates traditional compromises between performance and fuel economy.

The available Intelligent AWD system transforms the Altima's capability in challenging weather conditions, providing seamless power distribution that enhances traction without compromising the sedan's handling characteristics. The system operates transparently, engaging rear-wheel drive only when needed while maintaining front-wheel drive efficiency during normal conditions.

Handling and Ride Quality

The Altima's suspension tuning prioritizes comfort and stability over sport dynamics, providing a smooth, composed ride that excels during highway cruising and daily commuting. The chassis design incorporates Nissan's advanced platform technology that provides good structural rigidity while maintaining the lightweight characteristics that contribute to fuel efficiency.

Steering feel is light and responsive, with good feedback that enhances driver confidence during parking and low-speed maneuvering. The Altima's compact dimensions and tight turning radius make it exceptionally easy to navigate through urban environments and parking lots, addressing one of the primary advantages of sedan ownership.

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

The Altima's fuel economy ratings reflect Nissan's commitment to efficiency, with the standard 2.5-liter engine achieving 28 mpg city and 39 mpg highway. The available AWD system has minimal impact on fuel economy, typically reducing efficiency by only 1-2 mpg compared to front-wheel drive models.

Real-world testing confirms the Altima's efficiency claims, with many owners reporting fuel economy that meets or exceeds EPA estimates. The CVT transmission's ability to maintain optimal engine speeds contributes significantly to fuel efficiency while providing smooth, seamless acceleration.

Advanced Technology and Connectivity

The 2025 Nissan Altima's technology suite reflects Nissan's commitment to user-friendly interfaces and comprehensive connectivity. The NissanConnect infotainment system provides intuitive operation with either an 8-inch or available 9-inch touchscreen that offers clear, responsive control of all vehicle functions.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration provides seamless smartphone connectivity for navigation, music, and communication needs. The system's operation emphasizes reliability and ease of use over cutting-edge features, providing functionality that families can depend on throughout the ownership period.

NissanConnect Features and Smart Integration

Available features include wireless device charging, premium Bose audio system, and comprehensive connectivity options that accommodate modern family technology needs. The system includes voice recognition capabilities that allow hands-free operation of most functions, enhancing safety and convenience during driving.

Smart features include remote start capability through the NissanConnect app, allowing drivers to precondition the cabin temperature before entering the vehicle. The system also provides vehicle health monitoring, maintenance reminders, and the ability to schedule service appointments directly through the app.

Safety Technology Integration

Nissan Safety Shield 360 integrates seamlessly with the Altima's infotainment system, providing clear visual and audible alerts for safety systems. The available 360-degree camera system provides comprehensive visibility around the vehicle, particularly valuable for parking and low-speed maneuvering in tight spaces.

Advanced features include available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, lane centering assist, and evasive steering assist that can help drivers avoid collisions by providing steering input during emergency situations.

Interior Design and Family Comfort

The 2025 Nissan Altima's interior design successfully balances comfort and practicality, creating an environment that excels for daily family use and longer road trips. The cabin emphasizes spaciousness, ease of use, and ergonomic excellence that reduces fatigue during extended driving.

Seating design provides excellent support for both short trips and longer journeys, with Nissan's Zero Gravity technology that incorporates NASA-inspired contouring for optimal comfort. The front seats offer good adjustability and support, while the rear seats provide adequate space for adult passengers during occasional use.

Storage and Practicality

The Altima's interior includes numerous storage solutions designed for practical use, including door pockets, center console storage, and available under-seat storage compartments. The design accommodates both family gear and personal items, reflecting the diverse needs of midsize sedan buyers.

The 15.4 cubic foot trunk provides competitive cargo space for the segment, with a wide opening and low lift-over height that makes loading and unloading easier. The trunk design includes available tie-down points and storage compartments that enhance practical utility.

Material Quality and Fit and Finish

Interior materials are chosen for durability and practicality, with soft-touch surfaces covering most areas that occupants regularly contact. Available leather seating feels substantial and well-finished, while trim pieces operate with satisfying precision and appear well-integrated throughout the cabin design.

Available upgrades include heated and ventilated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and premium audio systems that enhance comfort for buyers who want additional luxury features in their midsize sedan.

Safety Technology and Protection

The 2025 Nissan Altima's safety systems provide comprehensive protection that addresses the unique challenges of family transportation while maintaining the safety standards expected in modern vehicles.

Standard safety equipment includes six airbags throughout the cabin, including dual-stage frontal airbags, side-impact airbags for front passengers, and side curtain airbags covering both rows. The Altima's body structure incorporates Nissan's Advanced Impact Protection that manages crash energy effectively while maintaining structural integrity.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

Nissan Safety Shield 360 includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning with rear cross traffic alert, and lane departure warning that helps prevent unintentional lane departures. These systems operate effectively in urban environments where families primarily use their vehicles.

Available advanced features include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, lane centering assist, and evasive steering assist that can help drivers avoid collisions by providing steering input during emergency situations.

Crash Test Performance and Ratings

The Altima achieves strong safety ratings that reflect Nissan's commitment to comprehensive protection across all price points. NHTSA testing shows 5 stars overall with 5 stars for front crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.

IIHS testing shows Good ratings in most categories, with Acceptable performance in the small overlap front test. These ratings acknowledge solid crash protection across multiple test scenarios typical of midsize sedan use.

Ownership Experience and Long-term Value

The 2025 Nissan Altima's ownership experience reflects Nissan's commitment to customer satisfaction and long-term value. The vehicle's combination of efficiency, comfort, and unique all-weather capability creates a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking practical transportation with sedan advantages.

Warranty coverage includes Nissan's standard 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage, which is competitive within the midsize sedan segment. The comprehensive coverage provides protection during the crucial early ownership years when most families are still making payments.

Reliability and Maintenance

Nissan's reliability record for recent models has shown improvement, with the current Altima generation benefiting from proven powertrains and simplified electronic systems. The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine represents mature, dependable technology with good long-term durability prospects for family ownership.

Maintenance requirements are straightforward, with regular service intervals that are typical for the segment. The CVT transmission requires periodic fluid changes, while the VC-Turbo engine benefits from Nissan's extensive experience with turbocharged applications.

Resale Value and Depreciation

The Altima's unique all-wheel drive capability and innovative technology contribute to competitive resale value performance. The vehicle's combination of efficiency and all-weather capability appeals to a broad range of buyers, supporting strong used market demand.

Depreciation rates are competitive within the midsize sedan segment, with the Altima's unique features helping maintain value over time. The vehicle's appeal to both traditional sedan buyers and all-weather capability seekers creates a diverse used market that supports resale value.

Environmental Impact and Efficiency

The 2025 Nissan Altima's environmental impact reflects Nissan's commitment to sustainable transportation solutions. The vehicle's efficient powertrains and lightweight design contribute to reduced emissions compared to larger vehicles while maintaining the capability that families expect.

The VC-Turbo engine's variable compression technology provides optimal efficiency across all driving conditions, while the available AWD system has minimal impact on fuel economy compared to traditional all-wheel drive systems.

Sustainable Materials and Manufacturing

Nissan's manufacturing processes incorporate sustainable materials and practices where possible, while the Altima's efficient design reduces the environmental impact of production and operation. The vehicle's compact dimensions and efficient powertrains contribute to reduced resource consumption throughout its lifecycle.

The CVT transmission's ability to maintain optimal engine speeds contributes significantly to fuel efficiency while providing smooth, seamless acceleration. This technology reduces emissions during all driving conditions while maintaining the performance that buyers expect.

Future-Proofing and Technology Evolution

The Altima's design incorporates technology that can evolve with changing environmental standards and consumer preferences. The VC-Turbo system provides a foundation for future efficiency improvements, while the vehicle's efficient design principles will remain relevant as environmental regulations become more stringent.

Nissan's commitment to sustainable transportation includes ongoing development of more efficient powertrains and alternative fuel options that will benefit future Altima generations and current owners through improved technology and reduced environmental impact.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2025 Altima is available in multiple trim levels, each offering different features and equipment. The base model starts at the lower end of the $26,000 - $38,000 range and includes essential features, while higher trims add luxury amenities, advanced technology, and performance upgrades.

Value-conscious buyers will find the mid-level trims offer the best balance of features and price, while those seeking maximum capability or luxury should explore the top-tier options.

Competition

The Altima faces stiff competition in the sedan segment. Key rivals offer their own strengths, but the Altima's combination of features, performance, and value proposition makes it a strong contender. Buyers should cross-shop with similar vehicles to determine which best meets their specific needs.

All-Weather Sedan Ownership Value

Total Cost of Sedan Ownership

The Altima's unique all-wheel drive capability provides significant value for buyers in regions with challenging weather, eliminating the need for SUV ownership while maintaining sedan efficiency and cost advantages. The VC-Turbo technology and comfortable seating create additional value through performance innovation and reduced fatigue during family use.

Final All-Weather Sedan Verdict

The 2025 Nissan Altima earns our strong recommendation with an 8.0/10 rating for buyers who want midsize sedan efficiency and comfort with unique all-weather capability that no competitor can provide. Nissan has created the only solution for sedan buyers who live in regions with challenging weather conditions, providing AWD confidence while maintaining the efficiency, handling, and value advantages that define sedan ownership.

The Altima excels for sedan buyers in snow-belt regions, families who want car-like efficiency with weather confidence, commuters needing comfortable long-distance capability, and buyers who appreciate innovative technology like VC-Turbo engines. The Zero Gravity seating and spacious interior create comfort advantages for daily use and road trips.

Perfect For: All-weather sedan buyers, families in snow-belt regions, comfort-focused drivers, technology appreciators, and anyone wanting sedan advantages without weather limitations.

Consider Alternatives If: You prioritize maximum fuel economy over AWD capability, prefer traditional automatic transmissions over CVT, want luxury brand prestige, or need maximum performance over comfort focus.