The Auto Writer

A little nip here, a little tuck there and the 2010 Nissan Altima offers enough changes to keep buyers happy until the next major update is released. Not bad for an interim update!

The Nissan Altima has certainly moved upmarket nicely since its Stanza days, back when that boxy, compact model competed against the likes of the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. Since then, the Altima has occupied the midsize slot once held by the Maxima, itself now considered a large midsize sedan — or full-sized sedan by some.

Attractive Interim Makeover

The current (fourth) generation Altima was rolled out for the 2007 model year, successfully holding its own in a crowded segment dominated by the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. For 2010, the Altima receives a midlife refreshening, one of the nicer interim makeovers I’ve seen.

So, what’s new with the Nissan Altima? Several things including an exterior update, cabin tweaks, and modifications to its navigation and entertainment systems. Available in sedan, coupe and hybrid configurations, the 2010 Nissan Altima will be available for sale beginning on October 5th.

Technology Changes Too

Changes with the 2010 Nissan Altima include, “…a restyled hood, grille and front bumper, new wheel designs, standard Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) on all models, revised interior fabric and finishers, new exterior colors and revised option package content.” New premium audio packages are now available, featuring a “Bose AM/FM audio system with nine speakers, 4.3-inch color display, USB port with iPod® connectivity, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, MP3/WMA CD-ROM playback, XM Satellite Radio (subscription req’d) and RearView Monitor.”

A new hard drive navigation system, Bluetooth audio streaming, DVD player and an RCA input for auxiliary audio/video connectivity are also available.

Pricing begins at $19,900 for the base Altima sedan which is powered by a 2.5 I4 engine paired with a continuously variable transmission. The coupe starts at $22,440 and the hybrid is sold for $26,780. In addition to the CVT, a six-speed automatic transmission is available with select trim levels. Optionally, a 3.5L V6 engine mated with a CVT or six-speed automatic can also be had.

New Altima In 2012?

The life cycle for each generation Nissan Altima has ranged from four to six years, suggesting that it may be two more years before the fifth generation Altima hits the market. The 2010 model will go far in keeping Altima drivers satisfied while Nissan will be able to hold off the competition until the next major update is released.

Source: Nissan North America