2015 Nissan Altima – Test Drive, Spec, Ratings, Price

2015 Nissan Altima – A Visual Attraction and More

The 2015 Nissan Altima, or any other car for that matter, follows basic principles where technology only gets cheaper and better. But to truly justify its worth, the frivolous and sensible features must be trialed.

With a complete overhaul inside out two years ago, the Nissan Altima continues to exemplifies itself as a sleek, modern and stylish four door sedan. Its 2015 model receives spa treatment in the engine department reducing fuel consumption, added NissanConnect infotainment system as well as safety technology package.

It’s not a broke man’s car – leave that for the Sentra. The Nissan Altima has long established itself as premium class where only the devoted career-driven would consider. Up front houses the Nissan signature front fascia with dual headlights inspired by the its Nissan 370Z design. Side view is kept simple with minimal details while its long sloping rear roof line and trunk creates a seamless silhouette line.

Interior

Interior spectacle combines cream colored panels with contrast in the black center console. Overall scheme gives off an overall bright color scheme with the help of natural sunlight. Center console can be appreciated thanks to the on-board navigation and infotainment system that proves itself to be easy and effective. Add the ergonomics and comfort of the NASA zero-gravity leather seats, and subtle dashboard layout with on-board vehicle insight display to the list of accolade. A definite visual pleasure, but a virgin grip of the steering wheel thickness and material led to a quick degradation of the “feel” aspect.

Power production includes Nissan’s 2.5L DOHC 16V engine producing 182 horsepower and 180 lb.ft of torque. The long lasting effort and positive results of Nissan’s CVT transmission is also used in the Altima. I’ve never been a fan of CVT transmissions and the Altima’s implementation doesn’t heighten my expectation in past and present. Torque experience is flat-line and acoustics is obnoxious. Put flaws aside, fuel economy can be of benefit. EPA scales in at an excellet 27/38 MPG in the city and highway respectively.

New in the Altima mechanics are multi-link rear suspensions, new shock absorber design and by ZF SACHS, and Nissan’s own implementation of Active-Understeer-Control system. Press material doesn’t lie – it delivers a plush ride and even touches some characteristics of the upper luxury class in terms of ride quality. Unfortunately, there is no athleticism in the Altima. Steering precision is wonky and lacks positive feedback. And with only 182 horsepower to spare with soft-tuned suspensions, there isn’t much of a thrill factor when it comes to driving experience.

The Altima offers succulent styling, comfort and digital amenities. These inherent traits offers visual excitement and ease of mind in your daily commute. Absence of performance and driving enjoyment can be blamed by the innocent 2.5L engine and unaccounted efforts in the steering and suspension design. But it’s not a lost cause. The Altima is also offered in a 3.5L variant upping the horsepower output to a much more enticing 270 horsepower and 251 lb.ft of torque. Its quick movement start up and zippy acceleration are also traits that can be appreciated for the “get-around” daily drivers.

Specifications

Vehicle : 2015 Nissan Altima
Model : Altima 2.5 SL
Price as Tested : $31,978
Vehicle Type : 4 Door Sedan
Seating Capacity : 2+3
Powertrain Configuration : FWD
Engine : 2.5L 4 Cylinder
Transmission : CVT
Horsepower : 270 Hp
Torque: 251 lb.ft
Fuel Economy: 27/38 MPG City/Highway
Additional Features : Technology Package, 7.0″ Infotainment touch screen, Leather wrapped steering wheel, Advanced drive assist display, In-cabin micro-filter, front heated seats, rear view camera, dual climate controls, power assisted steering, bluetooth with voice recognition, engine block heater