Used 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid Consumer Reviews
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Bad Company, Bad Car
For Nissan Altima Hybrid owners the carbon buildup is about to hit the fan, or not, which is the problem. Be ready to spend at least $4,500 to replace the cylinder head in your car. My 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid needs a cylinder head replacement at a minimal cost of $4,500. Carbon buildup due to improper discharge is the cause. It's a design/manufacture defect known to Nissan for years and theyve acknowledged in an internal bulletin that it is occurring in at least 1 in 4 Nissan Altima Hybrids. My Altima is within the five-year warranty period, but has 64,000 miles on it so falls just outside warranty. They won't honor the warranty and won't recall. Bad company - Bad car. Boycott Nissan.
Dependable, comfortable, sporty and
Comfortable, spacious for this over six foot driver who is usually behind the wheel 2+ hours at a time. Great acceleration on highway for passing. No complaints from rear seat passengers. Mileage averages 33mpg (purposeful/aggressive driving). Smooth ride. Quiet start throws new passengers who don't even realize car is on. Bose system plays mp3s. No iPod or USB connectors. Seamless integration with iPhone. HORRID trunk space compared to cavernous regular model, barely enough room to get luggage for two people into. Nav system works great (except for new construction, of course). Should have purchased a bra for all my highway driving (bug juice is hell to get off!) Purchased third hand, 4 years old. At 7 years old, JUST started having possible issues with engine/electrical (Nav display not coming on, warning light with exclamation mark, check engine light). Tire sensors have been an issue. Regular oil changes. Replaced spark plugs and brakes. While courteous, dealership skimps when providing service (no complimentary car wash) premium charge for oil changes and routine maintenance (high prices) and no coupons online or in mail.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
- Base SedanMSRP: $6,9981,497 mi away
- Base SedanMSRP: $5,9952,263 mi away
- Base SedanMSRP: $5,9902,312 mi away
6-Month Update on my Altima Hybrid
Total miles: 4,030. Avg mpg: 32.38. Total miles will easily double/triple in 2009. I came out of a 1999 V6 Toyota Camry. The Altima is nice but the Camry tracked and drove smoother. The power just flowed effortlessly and I could get up to 30 mpg hwy and 18-20 city. The 'premium' I paid for the Altima Hybrid has yet to be of benefit so think through your driving style and driving demands. I also considered the Ford Escape Hybrid for the huge advantage of cargo space and functionality. I decided ultimately on the better gas mileage Altima (by 3 - 5 mpg) was worth more since gas was over $4/gal at the time and there was talk of going to $5/gal. The $2350 tax credit helped the decision too.
A very satisfying choice!
I've had my NAH for 3 months, and I'm loving it. I drove an Acura TSX before, and the Altima is not as much fun, but it has plenty of pep and compelling driving dynamics. I'm pleased with an average of 34-35 MPG, but I am driving like Grandma to get those numbers. It's loaded except for navi: heated leather, Bose stereo, blueto. This car is a lot prettier than a Prius and is more fun to drive than the Camry Hybrid. The interior layout is excellent: controls are easy to read and to reach, and everything feels carefully designed. The modest rumble that you feel/hear when the gasoline engine kicks in does not bother me at all (some folks seem to mind). All in all - great car!
Super
I traded an Infiniti G35X in on my Altima. I drive approx. 100 miles per day, mostly highway. I used to stop twice a week or more to fill up with Premium unleaded. I now stop less than once per week. I am averaging over 36 miles per gallon, this is with setting the cruise on the highway portion at 73- 74. What a money and time saver. Enjoyable and fun to drive.
Best Performing Hybrid Sedan
Test drove the Fusion, Camry and Prius hybrids and concluded the Altima was the best overall performing hybrid in the group, with the best balance between fuel economy, driving performance and comfort. Although the Prius stands above the group in fuel economy, it fell quickly behind in other areas during my test drive. The Altima has the best merge/pass performance, lowest cabin noise, and the best cornering and general handling in the group. Fully dressed, all of these vehicles are priced about the same, with similar rebates and financing, and the same warranty coverages. It's nice to simply test drive them all on the same day and decide based mostly on that alone.
Altima hybrid-performance car.
My brother had this car for a while. I drove it too. With really aggressive driving it gets about 30MPG while if you drive normally you will get like 35 combined. This car is almost as fast as 2006 Nissan 350Z, faster then Lexus 330 SUV. So far no problems, the car is reliable including some couple of thousands mountain driving.
Not Bad . . but Pricey
18 Month Update - Pros: - Nice sporty & aggressive profile - OK gas mileage on open road (mid 30's)- Clean looks inside - Very roomy front & back. - Cons: (TTT)Terribly tiny trunk - when cold lousy gas mileage(in mid- No folding back seat - high 20's)not acceptable for the price. - Tech package nice but Nav just OK - not intuitive -backup cam great when back windshield fogged up. - Sometimes start button doesn't start the system/engine ? ? ? even when clearly depressing the brake pedal requirement) - Black trim beneath front bumper got torn off by an average parking cement block. - Can't seem to upload my cell phonebook - No success programming garage door opener on mirror. - No ala carte.
Use This Car For What It's Intended
I bought this car because the $4.50/gal gas prices were worrying me. I assumed they would only go higher. The tax credit was a huge incentive. I chose this car because it was the "sportiest" choice of the hybrid vehicles on the market. While it can set you back in the seat, it has some quirks too. The mpg are disappointing, but not terrible. The best I can do is low 30's. The regenerative braking system feels "grabby" when rolling to a slow stop. There is something wrong with the driver's seat. It pops when your weight shifts in turns. Dealership worked on it and it's better, but not completely gone. But mostly, use it for long distance commuting. I don't drive far enough to justify the price
Loved it for 5 days!
I had been researching different vehicles to buy for some time with particular interest in hybrid technology. I enjoy driving but wanted to save gas, I didn't necessarily care if it cost me more to save gas. I would rather spend the money on the car than give it to OPEC and contribute to the myriad of problems we have in the world today. Test driving the car was great, first few days of ownership, great! Now the service engine light is on, not great. I'm told I have to take a day off and possibly leave it overnight. Really not great. So much for Nissan reliability!
Great Car
Just picked ours today. I drive a 2007 Atima SE V6 MT, and my "Better Half" 2001 Audi S4 was getting to be too expensive to maintain. We have the sunroof and Tech package. It is a fun car to drive and the price and tax benefits are better than the Toyota Camry Hybrid. After driving the Audi S4, we were wondering about the feel of the hybrid, but so far, the acceleration is great and with the money that we save over MTC of the Audi and 50% better fuel, this car will pay itself off in tree years.
So far, so good
It's been a little over 2 years since I purchased Blondie ( named for the "blond" leather interior). No major problems to deal with, so far, so good. I do mixed freeway/city driving. In Tucson's heat, using the A/C which works great here in AZ by the way, I get 31 mpg. In our milder winters, I've been getting 34 mpg. The mpg are a slight disappointment but still better than 14 yr old Volvo. Still love the look, acceleration and roomy interior. Still not used to door locking system or less tight turning ability (is that torque?) Nervous about future cost to replace cell. Small trunk no problem; no kids and not much travel. So far, so good.
I love this car!
I bought my Altima 6 months ago and have not regretted my decision once. I bought the fully equipped Technology package and I have found the features included comparable with cars costing significantly more. I am getting a consistent 33-35 mpg with about 50-50 highway/street driving. I have not experienced any issues at all, not even a minor squeak or rattle. I must say that I love this car!! I would recommend it to anyone looking for a hybrid that still feels and looks sporty.
So Far So Good
This is a totally solid and surprisingly sporty hybrid. Mileage is as advertised; I get 32-33 mpg with no change at all of my rather speedy driving habits. We are very pleased with the purchase, esp. considering the tax credit. The smaller trunk is not as bad as we expected - a stroller fits easily, as does my golf bag (esp. if I remove my driver first).
Can't Go Wrong
I don't have any regrets or complaints after driving the Altima Hybrid for 2 months. The best mid-size exterior styling, pretty nice interior. MPG is right inline with EPA estimates. My only beef is that it does seem a little heavy. Adding several hundred pounds of batteries between the rear wheels makes the back end a little heavy when corner, but hey, it's a hybrid, so don't expect a sports sedan. Great car.
Yearling
Commute about 55miles/day. Had a Toyota Highlander which I loved. Gas creeping up so I looked at the Hybrids. The rebate influenced my decision to buy the Altima. Was worried about how I would enjoy driving it as I loved the Highlander, but the Altima has not disappointed. My commute is a combination of highway and town driving I am averaging 37mpg (the computer) actual is about 2mpg less. This took a year to achieve. Winter dropped to 30 mpg. Zippy, comfortable, the Bose system is disappointing, and it's nice to drive a car not an SUV - Winter posed a bit of a problem, will buy snow tires for next year. I live in a very hilly area in CT. Slip control GREAT! The dog loves it too!
fuel economy?
(this review is for a fully loaded 2008 hybrid) I guess I got the lemon. I get maybe 31 in the winter time, running on cruise control between traffic lights minimize fuel consumption. Now, at 105F outside, I'm lucky to get 27 - on mostly mixed freeway/city. Something must be bad - likely the battery pack. Blew an A/C hose o-ring at about 1 year, the single sided bolted joint at the top rear of the engine compartment must have worked itself loose.
Finally green
Just bought our first hybrid and so far it has been outstanding. After driving a dodge durango for a few years (17 mpg on a good day) it's nice to finally have a car that gives a little back. Great handling, quiet ride, smooth acceleration, and great gas mileage. Looked at other vehicles in same class, Altima won us over mostly due to it's sporty styling and smooth ride. Highly recommend this car to anyone. One more thing, in your instruction manual it states that there are three instances which your engine will run automatically. They are engine warm-up, batt charging and high or low batt temp.
Thumbs up!
This car gets more compliments than any other car I have ever owned. Handles great, plenty of power precise handling.
being Green is fun
I have had None of the problems listed in other reviews. Car stays in electric mode even over 35/mph at times. No brake noises. Fits even the tall people in my family. do not have high tech package but the regular stuff is fine. Comfortable seats, ride etc. More gas is used if needed heat or air conditioner otherwise It sips and I can go more than 2 weeks before needing gas.
08 Altima Hybrid, 38.4 mpg Mountain Hwy
This car is my second hybrid and is a real road worthy sedan. Returning from Carson City, NV to Novato, CA over the Sierras we averaged 38.4 mpg and legal highway speeds. This trip was 210 miles over 4 hours on a quarter of a tank of regular gas. I am very pleased with the cabin and trunk capacity and enjoy driving this vehicle.
Best of Both Worlds!
The Altima Hybrid is just a great car. Love the look, I have the metallic jade green and get positive comments all the time. I'm a hospice nurse and spend my days driving to my patients' homes, so I make a lot of 5-10 mile trips and spend a lot of time in the car. I can drive it responsibly and get about 35-37 mpg, or drive it aggressively and get 30-32 mpg. Comfort is important to me and it is very quiet and comfortable. In addition to getting great mileage in town, it is a strong highway cruiser. My wife loves driving it on the highway, the acceleration is awesome. We call it the "Green Ghost."
Like it better than Camry Hybrid
Have owned a Prius 4 years, wife wanted larger more comfortable hybrid. Drove Camry and Altima. Very close overall, but Altima seemed a little more "user friendly". Liked Altima styling, engine power, displays, controls better. Camry had more cup holders and pockets. Altima seemed to have a more usable trunk, even tho Camry spec listed larger. Love backup camera, sun/moon roof, keyless entry/startup, bluetooth hands free calling. Quiet on highway, excellent handling, acceleration. Got 35 mpg first tank (575 miles), mostly freeway driving. Get the Tech Pkg!
We just love this car!
This is our second Altima. The first is 2007 SE with tech, and this one is a hybrid with a sunroof and tech package. The day we got it, we drove from Philadelphia to DC for the weekend and back. total miles 300, half a tank of gas. Car is great, and best part is the button start and everything is totally quiet in the car. I can go on and on, but the bottom line is we compared it to the Camry, and we liked this one better. We got the Metallic Jade (green), so we have a true green car in more than one way!
Hybrid Review
I purchased the car expecting around 35 mpg. I am at 700 miles and haven't gotten better than 26- 29 mpg. I have to drive for a couple of miles before the ev mode engages. I can even be at a stop and it won't kick in. I expected the ev mode to be on more. It seems the gas engine is always on. I drive 4 miles to work all city driving. I am over half way there before the ev mode comes on. I would have never purchased the car if i am going to get 26-29 mpg especially at this pricepoint.
Altima
I just think the car is beautiful, elegant and stylish and on top of that affordable! I don't need to spend money on a Benz or BMW when I can get a car just a nice for much less!
No Surprises
I have only had this car about a month so I can't say it is broken in by any means and the temperature has been below freezing most of the time. This car meets all my expectations and then some. I was concerned about reading about the "shudder" transition from electric to gas but I found that only noticable at a full stop and not a problem. While driving it is smooth and responsive. I can't wait for warmer weather. On my first tank I hit about 34 mpg which is about the current EPA. I expect in warmer weather that it will improve. Got the tech package and I am glad I did. Seats are a big improvement over the standard cloth. Even now this baby gets me about 15 more per gallon than my previous
Awesome Car
Awesome car! Had it for just over a month now and have only had to fill up one time. Got about 500+ miles on first tank (I drive about 50/50 highway/city). Traded in 2006 Acura TL - when premium gas hit $3.49/gallon was glad I didn't own it anymore! Horsepower is more than sufficient - not nearly the oomph of the TL, but no problems at all passing or merging into traffic. Quiet, safe, smooth and comfortable ride. This vehicle has not disappointed. I always miss my trade in to some extent a number of weeks after getting a new car - love this car so much that I don't miss my TL at all!
NEW OWNER
bought the car last month. happy so far gas mpg is in 34-37 range per tank. transmission shifts are a bit jumpy from elect. to gas. hwy speeds the car tends to surge slightly. would buy the car again.
Michael's Review
Nice looking car. Mileage in the city is averaging 32 mpg according to the on board mileage calculator. I thought it would be a lot better. Everything is great, the only negative thing is that the gas engine is noisy when it first starts up when the car has not been driven for a while. As the engine warms up it gets a little quieter.
Nissan Altima hybrid
I've only had my car for 3 weeks, but so far so good. One of the big benefits is the roominess. I'm 6'5'' tall, and I have lots of leg room. The car has surprising power for a hybrid.
2008 Altima Hybrid
I purchased my NAH in June of 2008 and the first thing I wanted to test was to see how it did in the mountains in New Mexico. We took it to Santa Fe and to Cloudcroft and it never hesitated up those mountain slopes getting 33 mpg on average with regular fuel. We went through a huge thunderstorm where many cars pulled over, we drove right through at 55 mph with no problem, great windshield wipers and traction. The Continental tires could be upgraded to a better gripping tire, but most people probably don't do much driving in the mountains. Over all the Nissan Hybrid is a versatile vehicle that will get you around in style wherever you go, hard to find one though.
Sporty Hybrid
We purchased this car less than a month ago and so far, the mileage, comfort, drive are as expected. It does have a sporty feel and except for the sudden and slight jolt when switching transmissions, it is fun to drive and wonderful to know you are helping the environment. A surprise: if car hasn't been driven for awhile, the gasoline engine comes on for a min. or two when you least expect it, when you first start car, or when idling at a stop sign or red light. It stays on for a min. or two and if still idling, goes back to EV mode. Thus, not always the quiet experience we were told about. Perhaps it is the cold weather.
Nissan has Solid Hybrid
Just purchased the car for my commute to work and while I haven't driven it enough to be an authority user, I'm pleased overall with the car and its performance: ride is smooth. Got the tech package which may not be worth the $ since the nav system isn't as intuitive as others in the aftermarket. Also, while the rear camera is cool, I don't use it much since parking habits die hard. My biggest complaint revolves around the vibrations when system goes from EV to gas mode and back - it's very noticeable. Potential buyers: test drive! The brakes also seem to 'kick-back' at times and I'm not sure whether this is b/c the car is new, if it's the VDC kicking on or something else.
One week, 23000 miles
First fill up after 400 miles, trip computer 31.5, actual 29. Second fill up trip computer 35, actual 32.5. Perhaps because I always fill to the brim, dealer probably when they gave full tank not quite full. Great pickup nav system a bit complicated, but aren't they all? Nav should have built in calculator. Negatives - too much road (wind) noise. Bluetooth does not work real well, people have hard time hearing me on phone, plus voice recognition doesn't work so well. Have with tech package - should come with fog lights standard although lighting at nite pretty good, can manage without them. Trunk small, but will manage. Also purchased 2nd NAH this week for wife (without tech package).
16000 Miles So Far So Good
I commute 104 miles everyday, with lots of stop and go traffic. The Altima Hybrid has been a terrific commuter car, averaging 33 mpg for 16000 miles. The car is near luxury and near high performance. Not bad for a green hybrid! Some minor upgrades would make the car closer to a true luxury sedan, but the car won't ever be a high performance sedan. However, it's still fun to drive, with very good steering and handling, with acceptable power.
Just what was expected
I've found the fit and finish to be good and the mpg to be a consistent 38 overall. Wanted a practical car that offered some style. Am pleased with the car after 5 months on ownership.
Buy it!
I have drive my Altima Hybrid for about 2 months now. It performs superbly. Most of my driving is highway. I set the cruise at about 75 mph and I am averaging 35 mpg. I have every option and the car is exceeding all expectations. When you need to accelerate the gas engine is more than up to the task. I highly recommend this car.
Six Months and Still Loving it
Replaced 1999 Taurus with NAH as primarily a commuter car. 22 miles each way 50-50 split highway/city. During the summer enjoyed 37-39 mpg, but when it got cold - mileage crashed to 30-32 mpg. Have Convenience package - Tech package too much money and what I wanted was the power seat any way. Great seat comfort on long drives; but even though I knew it, the trunk size can be painful. Did not expect car to be conversation piece - many people commenting on a hybrid that is not small or looks like a car. Even Prius owners have admired the car. I love the fact that for a comparable sized car I am using 4 to 6 less gallons a week!
Cool looking hybrid
I was looking for a midsize hybrid, so I choose the Altima over the Toyota Camry, due to the sporty body style. But the ride is just awesome. If you are looking for a mid size sedan with good gas milage, handling and acceleration, this is it. Not to mention, I got 600 miles on the first tank of fue l(75% hwy). But keep in mind, the gas tank holds 17 gallons. My previous car was a Corolla, so I was not used to buying 17 gallons at every fill up. In closing, if you want a cool looking car and do your little part in saving the planet and be less dependant on foreign oil, consider buying the Nissan Altima Hybrid.
Great car
We like our car a lot. Like others say small trunk space. Was surprised at how much room in rear seat. Plenty of power. We get 29-33 mpg others say they get more, we drive 75 mph, and my wife has heavy foot.
Think twice -- hybrid?
I like the car overall but am extremely disappointed with the gas mileage - 26 mpg in the city. When I took it in for the six month oil change, the service tech told me if the mileage didn't improve by the next change he would look into it. Today, a different service tech tells me that those numbers (29 to 41 mpg) are only estimates. Given that I'm averaging more than 10% less than the low side of the estimate, I consider my car a gas "lemon."
Saving $150/month and loving it
When I leased my pathfinder 3 years ago gas was at $2 per gallon and I never paid attention to my fuel economy. With gas over $3 I realized I was only getting 14 MPG and something had to change. We have a family of 3 little ones and are constantly taking 5-10 mile trips that involve a lot of starting and stopping. When the light changes we are usually in a rush and don't have time to drive this car conservatively - we hit the gas. We have put 985 miles on the car and are still on our second tank of gas, I have a bit less than 1/4 tank. On my first tank we averaged 28 MPG and I think we are at 30 right now. This translates to over $150/month savings on gas alone.
Love it!
I've owned my '08 Altima for almost 5 months now and am extremely pleased. There have been absolutely no glitches. MPG range from 32-36, with 50/50 city highway driving. I notice my wife has some difficulty keeping it in EV mode as often as I do. It does take a little practice and experience anticipating hills, stops, etc. But the thing can really move on command! Great having a car that gets over 600 miles on a tank. I've gotten many positive comments about its sleek styling. Nothing negative to offer.
one year old!
Actually, I have two NAH's, both purchased March 07. I have loaded one with tech package, roof, etc., now have 34,000 miles, my wife's slightly loaded, she has approx 6000 miles. MPG as expected, for my car up until winter was averaging 34 - 35 mpg (mostly hwy driving) My wife's car, slightly better (more (suburban stop & go). I do keep very accurate gas records so these figures are actual consumption, not per computer (which is always higher by 5 to 7% MPG dropped to around 30 mpg for both vehicles, I suppose winter fuel and cold weather negatively impact mpg. Otherwise, no issues at all, very pleased with both vehicles.
Like it lots, despite a few problems
Have had my Altima Hybrid for 10 months and really enjoy driving it. It's got great pick-up, feels like it was made to suit me physically, and looks great. The fuel economy is sub-par -- averaging 30mpg mostly in city driving, which means I'm paying a lot for a hybrid that isn't performing as expected. I initially had to have the 12v battery replaced, then the headliner. Now there's an issue with the engine control module and the NAV system (which I don't find particularly intuitive). Despite all this, really enjoy driving it and despite the smaller cargo capacity, it can hold pretty much whatever I need it to and seats three kids well in the back. Still a great combo of practicality and fun
Very Happy Thank You
I gave up my 2003 Honda Camry in Jan 08 for the( in my opinion)sexy Altima Hybrid. I don't regret it. I drive 50 miles to and from work 6 days a week. I went from 3 tanks of gas a month to 3tanks of gas every 2 months. I went to San francisco from L A and drove around all week on the same tank of gas . With the camry I had to fill up when I got to San Francisco. I am Very Happy Thank You.
Perfect blend of MPG, ride, room, looks
Perfect. More room, power, fun to drive, and literally bang for the buck than the other Hybrids (Camry, Civic, Prius). With its five star crash ratings, my wife and I feel just as safe as in our Mercedes which we now leave parked in the garage. I have let Civic and Prius owners drive my Altima and they were surprised by the power and handling.
Great car so far
I purchased the car 4/11/08 and have almost 7000 miles on it already. The power is great (for a hybrid). So far I wish for a bigger trunk, but I knew that before I purchased it. Braking is top notch and I have never needed more power in passing or on hills. I drive mainly freeway to work and road trips. My gas mileage has been 30-32 mpg avg. I have seen as high as 37 mpg but like I said I drive pretty fast. I average 75-90 on the freeway. The car is very solid at all speeds but does very poorly up to speed with wind.
A+ on mileage: B- on interior design
Mileage rocks. We bought it last week and immediately took it on a road trip. Got 300 miles on a little more than half a tank. Handles well, pretty comfy-- (I'm spoiled by the old Lexus I had before). Bells and whistles that come with the tech package are pretty cool. I rented a Prius for a few days awhile back and the Altima ride is far (far!) superior. Better kick, more comfort, and better than average looks.