Every Altima save the SR VC-Turbo comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine making 188 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque.
The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the range-topper makes 248 horses when drinking premium gas. Every Altima shifts through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The CVT robs the fun of using the paddle shifters on equipped trims, but this isn’t the kind of car one should be pushing that hard, anyway. The Altima scores “Fine” on almost all its dynamic tests.
Steering is precise for the segment, braking is prompt and linear. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder succumbs to unruly engine noise when asked to deliver more than predictable, unremarkable acceleration. A comfy ride on the 16- or 17-inch wheels maintains its composure over road imperfections and wobbly pavement. The big dose of extra power in the VC-Turbo engine makes the Altima significantly quicker. However, even with the sportiest suspension, the Altima is never as fun to drive as the less-powerful Accord, and the 19-inch wheels that add grip on twisty roads also reduce the ride quality.