The 2017 Nissan Altima is one of the most popular midsize sedans on the market, offering a perfect balance of comfort, technology, and performance. Whether you’re looking for a family car, a daily commuter, or a vehicle with solid fuel efficiency, the Altima is worth considering. In this comprehensive review and buyer’s guide, we’ll take a closer look at what makes the 2017 Nissan Altima stand out, its key features, pros and cons, and whether it’s a smart choice for your next car.

Overview of the 2017 Nissan Altima

The 2017 Nissan Altima is a five-passenger sedan that competes in the highly competitive midsize sedan segment, where it faces rivals such as the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Fusion. For the 2017 model year, the Altima received a few updates, including revised front-end styling and an expanded list of standard features. Known for its smooth ride, spacious interior, and a variety of technology options, the 2017 Altima appeals to a wide range of drivers.

The 2017 Nissan Altima is available in five different trim levels: the base S, SV, SL, SR, and the sportier Altima 3.5 SR, which features a more powerful V6 engine.

Key Features and Specifications

Engine Options and Performance
The 2017 Altima offers two engine choices, catering to both efficiency-conscious drivers and those seeking a bit more power.

• 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine: This engine produces 179 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps improve fuel efficiency. The 2.5L engine provides a smooth and capable driving experience, making it an excellent choice for daily driving.
• 3.5-liter V6 engine: Available on the Altima 3.5 SR and SL trims, the V6 engine cranks out 270 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque. If you’re looking for more power for highway passing or a sportier driving experience, the V6 option delivers impressive performance without sacrificing too much fuel efficiency.

Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency is one of the Altima’s strong suits. The 2.5L 4-cylinder model delivers an impressive 27 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway, making it a great option for drivers looking to save at the pump. The V6 engine, while more powerful, is slightly less efficient, achieving 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

Interior and Comfort
Inside, the 2017 Altima offers a comfortable, spacious cabin with seating for five. The materials used in the interior are high quality for the segment, and the cabin is notably quiet, especially at highway speeds.

• Standard Features: All models come equipped with a 5-inch display screen, Bluetooth connectivity, a four-speaker sound system, and keyless entry. Higher trims offer upgraded features, including an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a premium Bose audio system.
• Comfort and Space: The Altima is known for its spaciousness, offering ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable for long drives, and the trunk offers generous cargo space.

Technology and Safety Features
The 2017 Nissan Altima offers a range of advanced tech and safety features, especially on higher trims. Some notable features include:

• Advanced Safety Features: Standard safety features on the 2017 Altima include a rearview camera, stability control, and front-seat side airbags. Optional features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, which add to the car’s safety profile.
• Infotainment: The Altima offers a user-friendly infotainment system with available features like Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a navigation system. The larger touchscreen (8-inch on select trims) makes it easy to navigate and use apps while driving.

Ride and Handling
The Altima’s handling strikes a good balance between comfort and performance. The suspension system does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth ride for both city and highway driving. The steering is responsive, and although it’s not a sports sedan, the V6 engine and the Altima SR trims add a bit of excitement to the driving experience.

Pros and Cons of the 2017 Nissan Altima

Pros:

• Excellent fuel efficiency: The 2.5L engine delivers impressive fuel economy, ideal for daily commutes and long road trips.
• Comfortable interior: Spacious and quiet with high-quality materials, the cabin is perfect for families and long drives.
• Solid technology and safety features: Available advanced safety tech and a user-friendly infotainment system make the Altima a great choice for tech-savvy buyers.
• Smooth ride: The Altima offers a well-rounded driving experience with good handling and a comfortable ride.

Cons:

• CVT transmission: While the CVT helps with fuel efficiency, some drivers find it less responsive compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
• Interior design may feel dated: While the Altima’s interior is spacious and comfortable, the design is somewhat conservative, especially compared to some of its rivals.
• Limited rear-seat headroom: While the Altima offers ample legroom, taller passengers might find the rear seat headroom slightly cramped.

Is the 2017 Nissan Altima Right for You?

The 2017 Nissan Altima is an excellent option for buyers seeking a midsize sedan that combines practicality, comfort, and efficiency. Whether you’re prioritizing fuel economy, interior space, or advanced tech features, the Altima offers a well-rounded package. The choice between the 4-cylinder and V6 engines also gives drivers the flexibility to select the right balance of performance and efficiency.

If you’re looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient family car, the 2017 Nissan Altima is a strong contender in its class. It also makes a great choice for those seeking a commuter car with a comfortable ride and a generous list of features. However, if you prefer a more engaging driving experience or a flashier interior, you may want to explore other options in the midsize sedan segment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2017 Nissan Altima is a solid choice for anyone in the market for a dependable, comfortable, and fuel-efficient midsize sedan. With its range of trim levels, available engines, and advanced technology features, it caters to a wide variety of drivers. If you’re looking for a vehicle that offers a great combination of everyday practicality and enjoyable performance, the 2017 Altima is well worth considering.