2019 Nissan Altima Review
2019 Nissan Altima Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
byDan Frio
Reviews Editor
Dan spent many years covering the go-fast, look-good, get-loud corners of the automotive universe. First, he served as editor of enthusiast magazines AutoSound and Honda Tuning, then as executive editor at SEMA News, the publishing arm of the trade group that produces the annual SEMA Show (yes, that show). As a contributor to Edmunds, he now likes to keep the volume low and the speed limit legal, providing expert car-shopping advice to drivers looking for the perfect match.
Pros
- New engine promises both power and efficiency
- Seats are among the most comfortable of any midsize sedan
- Offers full suite of semi-automated driving features
Cons
- All-wheel drive only available with less powerful engine
- Nice, if bland, interior design
What's new
- The Altima is fully redesigned for 2019
- Offers all-wheel drive for the first time
- Chassis and steering refinements enliven handling
- Part of the sixth Altima generation introduced for this year
The Nissan Altima is one of those competent and capable family sedans that has nonetheless lived in the shadows of the big sellers from Honda and Toyota. Whether loaded with more standard features than the others or given brawny V6 power, the Altima could never quite outrun its also-ran status. The new 2019 Nissan Altima may change all that.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2019 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$133/mo for Altima 2.5 S
Altima 2.5 S
vs
$181/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
The redesigned Altima makes some bold changes for its sixth generation, including two new engines, sophisticated driver aids and, for the first time, all-wheel-drive availability. The exterior design isn't a wholesale departure from the previous model, but the grille is larger, the lines and dimensions tighter all around, and whether or not you find it attractive, there's no denying that the new Altima has personality.
The new Altima continues with a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. Although the same size as the outgoing engine, Nissan says the new engine's internals and tolerances are a significant upgrade. Gone is the earlier Altima's beloved V6 engine, and in its place a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder.
This innovative engine, which is also used in the Infiniti QX50 SUV, can change its compression ratio in real time, enabling it to offer the fuel efficiency of a four-cylinder or the power of a V6, depending on conditions and driver demand. The new turbo engine makes less horsepower than the old V6, but more useful low-end torque. With 248 horsepower and an EPA-estimated 29 mpg combined, it looks to be the more desirable engine this year. The Altima offers all-wheel drive for the first time this year, too.
All of these factors, combined with innovative tech (including the latest in driver assist features) and a roomy, comfortable cabin, bring the Altima out of the long shadows of its rivals.
Edmunds' Expert Rating
Trim tested
Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our first drive of the Nissan Altima Platinum (turbo 2.0L inline-4 | CVT | FWD).
Driving
It's not a sport sedan, but the Altima still has moves. The turbo engine delivers proper punch, especially from low speeds, and steering feel is vastly improved over the previous generation. Get the SR trim for sharpest handling, if that's your priority, but even the standard-issue suspension is good enough for moderately quick carving.
Comfort
Nissan's Zero Gravity seats are built from NASA-derived technology, with shape, support and cushioning that make them among the most comfortable buckets around. A compliant, well-damped suspension smooths out rough roads, while a modest amount of wind noise creeps into the cabin.
Interior
A slimmer, more modern instrument panel anchors the new Altima's interior design and emphasizes the cabin's roomy, airy feeling. It's a bit bland, without much visual interest, but it's nonetheless uncluttered and functional. The wide door openings make for easy entry and exit, and there's plenty of rear seat head and legroom.
Utility
At 15.4 cubic feet, the Altima's trunk space rates about average among midsize sedans, but a low liftover height and 60/40 split-folding rear seat bolster the cargo space's usefulness. There are more than a handful of nooks for small items, so it's easy to find room for wallets, keys and oversized phones.
Technology
Even in base trim, the Altima packs a useful tech punch, with standard Bluetooth, iPhone/Android compatibility and an 8-inch touchscreen interface. The full complement of ProPilot driver aids starts on the midlevel SV trim, so no need to pay a premium for safety. Opting for the SL trim brings navigation and a premium Bose sound system.
Which Altima does Edmunds recommend?
We haven't driven the new Altima with its standard 2.5-liter engine yet, but we can recommend the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. It's quick and responsive, and it infuses the Altima with impressive performance. Unfortunately, this engine is limited to the SR and Platinum trims, which may be too little or too much for many buyers. If you want a good middle ground, the SV hits the sweet spot. It doesn't offer the turbo engine, but it's loaded with most of the features you'll want every day, including the full complement of Nissan's driver aids.
2019 Nissan Altima models
The 2019 Nissan Altima is a five-passenger midsize sedan available in five trim levels: S, SR, SV, SL and Platinum. The S base trim is indeed pretty basic, but offers nice surprises for the money. The SV adds more creature comforts, including a full suite of active driver aids, and the SL takes it further with features such as leather seats and navigation. The fully loaded Platinum adds a few final flourishes. The SR is the Altima's sporty variant. It comes equipped similar to the S, but adds more performance-oriented features.
The Altima's standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder (188 horsepower, 180 pound-feet of torque) paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional.
An optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (248 hp, 280 lb-ft) is available for SR and Platinum trims only. It's also paired with CVT, but it's limited to front-wheel drive.
Standard features on the S include 16-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, keyless entry, push-button ignition, remote engine start, a rearview camera and forward collision warning.
Interior highlights include cloth upholstery, a power-adjustable driver seat, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, satellite radio, four USB ports (two front, two rear) and a six-speaker audio system.
The SR builds on the S features with 19-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, transmission paddle shifters, LED headlights, daytime running lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and unique styling elements that include a rear spoiler, a dark chrome grille and carbon-fiber interior trim. The SR also includes blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems.
The SV blends features from the S and SR (minus the SR's sportier elements, primarily suspension and styling) and comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, LED foglights, automatic high beams, heated front seats/side mirrors/steering wheel, and remote engine/climate control start. Additional driver aids include lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, rear automatic braking (which can apply emergency braking while in reverse), along with the ProPilot Assist features that include self-steering and stop-and-go adaptive cruise control.
Moving up to the SL brings leather upholstery, a power-adjustable passenger seat, a navigation system, NissanConnect app services and a nine-speaker Bose audio system.
Finally, the Platinum adds 19-inch alloy wheels, a 360-degree camera and ambient cabin lighting.
The only optional package is the Premium package for the SR trim, which includes a sunroof, heated side mirrors and heated front seats. Stand-alone options include 17-inch alloy wheels and a rear spoiler.
Jump to:Related 2019 Altima articles
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Excellent
#14 out of 28 among Midsize Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Nissan Altima from 2008-2022.$431/yr
vs. $415/yr
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).0.83x/yr
vs. 0.87x/yr
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).12.8%
vs. 10.2%
for Average Midsize Car
for Average Midsize Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2019 Nissan Altima.
5 star(51%)
4 star(11%)
3 star(13%)
2 star(11%)
1 star(14%)
71 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4 out of 5 stars
Great car except.......
Norman Meyerowitz, 01/13/2019
2019 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
I very much like most aspects of the 2019 Altima SV. It's quick, has a lot of technology, very nice styling, and is mostly comfortable. What I don't like is that the ride is very stiff. On asphalt, it floats down the road like the best of them. On rougher surfaces such as poured concrete and older roads, you really feel each bump. When hitting a pothole, of which there are many in the … NY/NJ region, there hardly seems to be any absorption of the impact. At first, I thought it may be the tires, but the Continentals that are standard equipment, are supposed to be an absorbent tire. The car is quiet. Engine noise is minimal, even when accelerating hard. Steering is a little bit on the light side. Would like some more road feedback, but it's easy to drive. Cornering is very precise. I like the Pro Pilot Assist feature, especially in stop and go traffic on the highway. It eliminates (or reduces) the possibility of rear-ending the car in front by accident. It also helps keep the car centered in it's lane. Those are great features, especially when feeling fatigued. Overall, I like the car. I like that I don't yet see hundreds more on the roads yet. I wish though that Nissan would find a way to soften and smoothen the ride. Maybe with enough consumer feedback, they will. By the way, this is my fourth Altima. It's definetly a step up from the 2015 I was driving.
5 out of 5 stars
Better than Accord or Camry at a cheaper price!!
Jason, 04/12/2019
2019 Nissan Altima 2.5 Platinum 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
After my wife totaled our 2017 Hyundai Sonata we spent more than a month looking for a replacement. We drove the Camry (both hybrid and non-hybrid), Accord (hybrid, 1.5t, and 2.0t), Sonata (hybrid and non hybrid), Optima, Legacy, Clarity, and Insight before driving the Altima. When it came right down to it, we found the Altima to be better in all areas, especially simplicity. That may … sound strange but most of the cars rely too much on touch screen and menus that take too much attention away from driving. The people who complain about the CVT transmission may no realize that the Accord has already switched to CVT and the 2020 Camry is also slated to be CVT. I have owned several CVT cars and while it does take some getting used to but it operates just fine! The 19" wheels on the Platinum trim we got make handling and traction great and we are thoroughly happy with the car!! We worked 3 dealerships against each other and ended up getting the car for $10,000 off dealer sticker including a lifetime power train warranty.
5 out of 5 stars
I LOVE my Altima!!
Lisa, 04/01/2019
2019 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
I have had a Dodge Durango that I really liked and just sold my 2009 Rogue that I absolutely loved but NOTHING tops this Altima. It is so luxurious on the inside and literally drives like a sports car. I really love the way the steering wheel feels like a sports car. The car is extremely tight and drives like a charm. I really love this car and would recommend it over and over again!
1 out of 5 stars
Nothing but Problems
Sonya, 02/24/2020
2019 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
I have had nothing but issues since I purchased my Altima in Feb of 2019. All my door locks have had to be replaced (they wouldn't lock or unlock unless I reached in to do so myself). The driver side lock wouldn't unlock when in park or engine turned off. Setting adjustments were made and they still were not successful. Three months after I purchased the car I kept hearing a loud click … noise when I would back out of any parking spot. Dealership could not find anything wrong except for some loose bolts and they oiled the axle. Noise went away, but shortly returned. After multiple returns to dealer, they decided it was my rear shocks and replaced them. After speaking to the manager of the service dept, he finally told me it was my ABS and that it was normal to hear that noise. After getting my car back from shocks, the noise is now louder and more frequent. Not only when backing out of spot, it is now everytime I turn steering wheel. I am going out of my mind!!! I am so upset with what is going on and the dealer is just playing a guessing game.
2019 Nissan Altima videos
2019 Nissan Altima First Drive
The redesigned 2019 Nissan Altima offers two new engines, innovative self-driving technology and, for the first time in the U.S., all-wheel drive. A new 8-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration give the interior more modern appeal, while the Altima's… NASA-inspired seats remain among the best in the business. Is it enough to give the Altima an edge on its traditional midsize-sedan rivals? Edmunds staff writer Dan Frio crosses the hills and highways around Santa Barbara and Ojai, California, in a 2019 Altima Platinum Edition One, a limited run of the Altima's top trim only available for 2019.
2019 Altima Highlights
2.5 S
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $24,000 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 32 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $133/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 15.4 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Altima models:
- Around-View Monitor
- Overcomes blind spots with a bird's-eye view of the car and its surroundings.
- Forward Emergency Braking
- Helps to ensure that a momentary lapse of driver attention won't result in a collision.
- ProPilot Assist
- A combination of driver aids that work together to offer semiautomated, nearly self-driving operation.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat4 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover5 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover9.2%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestGood
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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