Nissan Altima Overview

The Altima beat out competing models from Honda, Toyota, Ford and Hyundai to win the coveted Consumer Reports 2011 Top Pick among family sedans. For 2011 the car comes in 2.5, 2.5 S and 3.5 SR trim levels and as either a sedan or coupe. Available with either a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder making 175 hp or a 3.5-liter V6 offering 270 hp, the Nissan can be ordered with 6-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmissions, both available with either engine. Far more tightly sprung and fun in corners than the top-selling Camry, the front-wheel drive Altima is truly engaging, especially in the 3.5 SR trim with its more powerful engine and sport-tuned suspension.

Available luxury features include a sunroof, leather interior, a 9-speaker Bose premium audio system with satellite radio, hard-drive based navigation with real-time traffic and weather, and Bluetooth connects for phone and streaming audio. Pricing ranges from about $20,000 to just over $30,000 depending on trim level and options.