The sedan market share has declined as the general consumer preference shifts toward higher-riding and often more capable crossovers and SUVs. The redesigned 2019 Nissan Altima gives consumers another reason or two for consideration, including available all-wheel drive across the lineup and a high-tech turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
What's New for 2019
The all-new 2019 Nissan Altima rides on a new chassis for improved handling and gains new engines that make gains in power and fuel efficiency. The exterior is lower, longer, and wider than before and the interior takes on a low cowl and a horizontal theme.
Choosing Your Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima’s new exterior shape brings an enlarged interior that has been designed with a lower cowl for a more open sensation. The Altima receives two new engines and an all-wheel-drive system which distinguishes it from the best-sellers within the segment.
The standard engine is a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder that totals 188 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. This setup achieves an EPA-estimated 28 miles per gallon city, 39 mpg highway, and 32 combined with front-wheel drive.
The also new and more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is a technological milestone for the automotive industry, as it incorporates a mechanical system that adjusts the cylinder compression ratio depending on power demands. Generally speaking, it helps the engine achieve added levels of efficiency and power. Peak power ratings for the turbo-four are 248 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, and it achieves an EPA-estimated 25/34/29 mpg (city/highway/combined). This engine is only available on the SR ($4,050) and Platinum ($3,000) trims.
With either engine, Nissan’s updated continuously variable transmission transfers power to the front wheels. The new all-wheel-drive system is a key differentiating feature against the Altima's rivals, though it's only available with the 2.5-liter engine for an additional $1,350.
The Altima is available in five trims:
The 2019 Nissan Altima S misses out on some of the added active safety and comfort features of the SR and SV trims, but it can still be ordered with all-wheel drive and already includes critical safety and connectivity capabilities, making it our go-to choice.