2012 Nissan Altima

Change

2012 Nissan Altima

Starting MSRP $20,550–$31,200

Best Bet

Expert Reviews

By Cars.com Staff

Cars.com National November 30, 2011

Vehicle Overview

Nissan's midsize Altima is available in both coupe and sedan body styles. The coupe's powertrain offerings are similar to the sedan's, but the coupe has unique styling elements. Both body styles provide seating for five, and competitors include the Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

New for 2012

Minor sedan changes include a new Value Package for the 2.5 S trim levels that features Bluetooth connectivity, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, steering-wheel audio controls and automatic headlights. The 3.5 SR models now come with Bluetooth.

Exterior

Compared to the sedan, the Altima coupe is shorter in both length and height, and it also has a unique grille, headlights and taillights. The coupe's main competitor — the Accord coupe — is larger overall. Exterior features include:

  • Power mirrors
  • Dual exhaust tips
  • Available sunroof
  • Available automatic headlamps and fog lamps

Interior

Both the coupe and sedan can seat five people. The rear seatback is split in both the sedan and coupe and can be folded down when long items need to be carried inside the car.



Interior options include Nissan's hard-drive-based navigation system and an upgraded Bose stereo. That stereo also features a 4.3-inch color display, USB port with iPod connectivity and a backup camera. Interior features include:

  • Cloth or leather upholstery
  • Air conditioning
  • Standard power windows, locks and keyless entry
  • Optional push-button start
  • Available heated front seats
  • Available nine-speaker Bose stereo
  • Available navigation system

Under the Hood

Mechanical features include:

  • 175-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 180 pounds-feet of torque
  • 270-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 with 258 pounds-feet of torque
  • Available six-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission

Safety

An electronic stability system is a standard feature. Other safety features include:

  • Side curtain airbags
  • Side-impact airbags
  • Front active head restraints
  • Antilock brakes
  • Optional backup camera

Additional Reviews

Cars.com Expert Reviews

Mike HanleyCars.com NationalNovember 30, 2011
Cars.com StaffCars.com NationalNovember 30, 2011

Affiliate Reviews

Courtney MessenbaughMother ProofNovember 11, 2011

Closest Dealers Listing this Car

Find dealers and new car inventory in your area.
See listings
*Invoice prices are made available by Cars.com and are not dealer advertising. All prices are subject to regional variations. Prices last updated 9/23/10. Click here for more information.

Research Competing Vehicles

Choose up to three models to compare to the 2012 Nissan Altima

2012 Audi A5

2012 Audi A5

Starting MSRP
$37,100
2012 BMW 128

2012 BMW 128

Starting MSRP
$31,200
2012 Honda Accord

2012 Honda Accord

Starting MSRP
$21,480