Entering the final stretch of its tenure at Motor Trend, the Altima SE continues to deliver its special blend of econo/luxury transportation. Many drivers have praised the mid-level Nissan for its just-right size, refinement, and finish. One editor wrote, "The Altima has a true quality feel, with tight construction and great operation of everything the driver contacts." The weakness that got the most logbook attention is the modest acceleration. While quite satisfactory in 0-30-mph urban driving, sprints to 60 mph for highway merges require 9.5 seconds. The tepid straightline performance has even made a couple staffers nervous crossing large intersections notorious for red-light-running kamikazes. Firmish front buckets and rear bench offer adequate passenger space for a quartet, or five in a pinch, with the back seat surprisingly useful for a compact sedan. While the leather upholstery lends an upscale flavor, some staffers wish the cowhide were more supple. Complaints have been few, proof that the Altima excels at its mission to support its big brother Maxima in a two-prong attack in the fun-to-drive sedan wars.
| Base price | $19,290 |
| Price as tested | $22,506 |
| Body style | 4-door, 5-pass. |
| Engine size/type | 2.4-liter inline 4 |
| Transmission | 4-speed auto. |
| Driveline configuration | Front engine, |
| | front drive |
| 0-60 mph, sec. | 9.5 |
| EPA mpg, city/hwy. | 22/30 |
| Total mileage | 10,559 |
| Test mileage | 10,337 |
| Fuel consumed, gal | 477.5 |
| Fuel cost | $550.56 |
| Average mpg | 21.7 |
| Additional oil/cost | None |
| Routine maint. | None |
| Additional maint. | None |
| Previous maint.. | $85.29 |
| Problem areas | None |
| Total operating cost | $635.85 |
| Operating cost/mile | 6.2 |
National gas average prices courtesy of Lundberg Survey, Inc., Camarillo, California.