There are a number of new changes and upgrades that are being rolled out with the 2018 Nissan Altima which is great news. And the even better news is that the corresponding price increase is actually kind of minimal. The starting price point for the Altima is a rather reasonable $24,025 and with the comprehensive Base trim associated with this model, the introductory feature model will suit their needs just fine. For the record, the $24,025 represents an incredibly modest increase of only $240 over the 2017 model year.
Features
The 2018 model includes a lot of carry-overs from 2017 and previous years. Features that have been brought forward include the four-cylinder engine that utilizes a 2.5-liter unit that provides 179hp; while the extended V-6 model includes 270hp with a 3.5 setup. These automatic engines have proven to be reliable and popular with consumers. This option is a sedan, not a crossover or an SUV and it is happy staying in that lane. There are no attempts to make the Altima something that it is not, and Nissan is happy to offer the Murano, Rogue, and Pathfinder to customers that are looking for that type of vehicle. This is a best selling vehicle for the brand so it is obviously filling a need in the mid-size and mid-range sedan market segment.
Highlights:
- Four-cylinder base engine
- Nissan’s flagship sedan
- Nissan’s best-selling vehicle
Trim Levels
Manufacturers are often looking for ways to more easily market their vehicles, and Nissan is no exception. There are now fewer sedan models available, while the company has kept a great range of options: 2.5 S, 2.5 SR, 2.5 SV, 2.5 SL and 3.5 SL models. If you are wondering what is missing, the 2.5 and 3.5 SR base trims are no longer available. There are additional trim level changes such as the premium 3.5 SL now offering adaptive cruise control as standard. This trim level also includes NissanConnect with navigation and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity as standard.
The standard Base trim is called the 2.5S and it includes the features that one would expect from a base-level sedan package. Next up is the 2.5 SR which is offered at $25,085, a standard price for this type of vehicle. As far as competitors go, the Altima is comparable to the Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, and the Honda Accord, with all of these vehicles offered at rather similar price points.
Highlights:
- Some trim levels have been removed
- Trims are priced similar to the Toyota Camry and Ford Fusion
- Premium 3.5 SL trim now offers adaptive cruise control
Styling and Segment
With its similar styling to the more expensive Nissan Maxima, many people find that the Altima offers a more upscale profile than its price tag suggests. If you are looking for a reliable and safe car that drives well, the middle of the road Altima may be for you. This vehicle will get you where you need to go, and safely, but it doesn’t really offer many luxury amenities or advanced safety features.
Highlights:
- Surprisingly upscale
- The Maxima is Nissan’s entry-level luxury sedan
- Fewer luxury amenities in the high-end Altima trims
Conclusion
If you are looking for an affordable, safe, and reliable sedan, the Altima is sure to please. This vehicle does not offer a lot of changes or enhancements to the 2018 model, but why mess with success?