2026 Nissan Altima

The current-generation Nissan Altima has been around since the 2019 model year, and it's starting to show its age. With the Versa discontinued last year, the 2026 Altima sits above the smaller, recently updated Sentra, making it one of two sedans Nissan currently sells. While its low entry price and good fuel economy will help to keep cash in your pocket, you'll have to accept shortcomings in performance and interior quality to get it.

You'll definitely want to check out the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Both are nicer on the inside and more enjoyable to drive overall. We also give high scores to the Hyundai Sonata and Kia K5, both of which are stylish and packed with features. Notably, all of these sedans except the K5 offer a hybrid powertrain option for improved fuel economy. Nissan doesn't offer a hybrid version of the Altima.

The Nissan Altima used to be available in four trim levels, but for 2026, just two remain. Nissan has discontinued the previous base S trim, making the SV the Altima's new cost leader. This means you get more standard equipment but at a higher price. The other Altima flavor available is the SR, which used to be the second-highest trim. With the fanciest SL now gone, the SR inherits features from the discontinued model, like a 360-degree camera system and a nine-speaker Bose audio system. For 2026, you can also get the SR Midnight Edition, which features gloss black trim, 19-inch wheels and a moonroof.