What To Know
- The Altima S is the entry-level trim and comes with standard features like cloth upholstery, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a six-speaker audio system.
- While it provides the essentials, the S trim lacks some of the comfort and convenience features found in higher trims.
- Offers a more premium feel compared to the cloth seats in the S trim.
The Nissan Altima is a popular mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, stylish design, and fuel-efficient engine. But with several trim levels available, including the S, SV, and SL, it can be challenging to determine which one best suits your needs and budget. This guide will delve into the key differences between the Nissan Altima S, SV, and SL, helping you make an informed decision.
Engine and Performance
All three trims of the Altima are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. While the engine offers adequate power for everyday driving, it may feel a bit sluggish for those seeking a more spirited driving experience.
Interior and Comfort
The Nissan Altima’s interior is a highlight, offering comfortable seating for five adults and a well-designed dashboard. However, the level of luxury and features varies depending on the trim level.
Altima S: The Base Model
The Altima S is the entry-level trim and comes with standard features like cloth upholstery, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a six-speaker audio system. While it provides the essentials, the S trim lacks some of the comfort and convenience features found in higher trims.
Altima SV: Adding Convenience and Technology
The Altima SV builds upon the S trim by adding several upgrades, including:
- Leatherette upholstery: Offers a more premium feel compared to the cloth seats in the S trim.
- Heated front seats: Provides warmth and comfort during colder months.
- Dual-zone automatic climate control: Allows both the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperature independently.
- 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system: Offers a larger display for enhanced navigation and entertainment.
- NissanConnect services: Provides access to features like remote start, navigation, and vehicle status information.
Altima SL: Top-of-the-Line Luxury
The Altima SL is the top-of-the-line trim and offers the most luxurious and advanced features, including:
- Leather upholstery: Provides a premium and comfortable seating experience.
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory function: Allows you to save your preferred seating position for easy access.
- Heated steering wheel: Offers additional comfort during cold weather.
- Bose premium audio system: Delivers a more immersive and high-quality sound experience.
- Panoramic moonroof: Provides a spacious and airy feel to the cabin.
- Safety Shield 360: Includes advanced safety features like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Exterior Styling
All three Altima trims share the same sleek and modern exterior design, featuring a sharp front grille, sculpted lines, and a sporty stance. However, the SV and SL trims add some subtle styling enhancements to distinguish themselves from the base S trim.
Altima SV: Sporty Touches
The Altima SV boasts a more athletic appearance with:
- 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels: Offer a sportier look compared to the 16-inch steel wheels on the S trim.
- Sporty exterior accents: Features black exterior accents like a black front grille, door handles, and side mirrors.
Altima SL: Premium Aesthetics
The Altima SL exudes a more premium and sophisticated look with:
- 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels: Enhance the vehicle’s sporty profile.
- Chrome exterior accents: Adds a touch of elegance with chrome accents on the grille, door handles, and side mirrors.
- LED headlights and taillights: Offer a more modern and stylish appearance.
Fuel Efficiency
All three Altima trims achieve impressive fuel economy with a combined rating of 28 mpg. This makes the Altima a fuel-efficient option for daily commuting and long road trips.
Safety Features
The Altima offers a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:
- Automatic emergency braking: Helps prevent or mitigate collisions by automatically applying the brakes when a potential collision is detected.
- Lane departure warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane.
- Blind spot monitoring: Detects vehicles in the blind spots and warns the driver.
- Rear cross-traffic alert: Warns the driver of approaching vehicles when reversing.
The SL trim adds Safety Shield 360, which includes additional advanced safety features like:
- Rear automatic emergency braking: Provides additional protection when reversing.
- Driver attention monitoring: Monitors the driver’s alertness and warns them if they appear drowsy.
- Traffic sign recognition: Identifies speed limit signs and displays them on the instrument cluster.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Altima
The Nissan Altima S, SV, and SL each offer unique advantages and cater to different needs and preferences.
- The Altima S is an excellent value proposition for budget-conscious buyers who seek a comfortable and reliable sedan with basic features.
- The Altima SV provides a good balance of features, comfort, and technology at a reasonable price. It’s a great option for those who want more amenities without breaking the bank.
- The Altima SL is the ultimate luxury choice, offering the most advanced features, premium materials, and a sophisticated driving experience. It’s ideal for drivers who prioritize comfort, style, and technology.
Ultimately, the best Altima trim for you depends on your individual needs and budget. Consider your priorities, such as comfort, technology, safety, and style, to determine which trim level best suits your driving needs.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: What is the starting MSRP for each Altima trim level?
A: The starting MSRP for the Altima S is around $25,000, the SV starts at around $28,000, and the SL starts at around $33,000.
Q: Does the Altima offer any optional packages?
A: Yes, all three Altima trims offer optional packages, such as the Technology Package, which adds features like a navigation system, a premium Bose audio system, and a sunroof.
Q: What is the difference in the warranty coverage between the trims?
A: All Altima trims come with the same standard warranty coverage, which includes a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Q: Is the Altima available with all-wheel drive?
A: No, the Altima is only available with front-wheel drive.
Q: What is the ground clearance of the Altima?
A: The Altima has a ground clearance of 5.9 inches.
