2021 Nissan Altima Review

MotoPickers Rating: 8.0/10

The 2021 Nissan Altima positions itself as a strong contender in the midsize sedan segment, appealing to a wide range of drivers with its blend of performance, comfort, and technology. Available in five trim levels—S, SV, SR, SL, and Platinum—the Altima offers variety to suit different preferences and budgets. It features a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, delivering a balanced mix of power and efficiency.

For those looking for an extra boost in performance, the Altima SR 2.0T houses Nissan’s innovative variable-compression 2.0-liter turbo-four engine, exclusively available with front-wheel drive. This engine provides a robust 236 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts.

Its quiet and efficient standard powertrain ensures a pleasant driving experience, making it ideal for both daily commutes and long road trips. The car’s high safety ratings and accolades, including the 2021 Best New Cars for Teens award, further underscore its appeal as a reliable and family-friendly vehicle.

Exterior and Interior Design

The 2021 Nissan Altima boasts a modern design with sporty aesthetics and a well-appointed interior, enhancing both style and comfort for drivers and passengers alike.

Exterior Features

The Nissan Altima for 2021 features a sleek and aerodynamic exterior. Its prominent V-Motion grille and sharp LED headlights give it a distinct look. The body lines are smooth yet aggressive, contributing to its sporty appearance.

This model includes available aluminum-alloy wheels, which further elevate its stylish appeal. The optional fog lights and stylish taillights add both functionality and flair.

The Altima offers color options such as Scarlet Ember Tintcoat and Pearl White, ensuring a wide range of stylistic choices for potential buyers.

Interior Amenities

Inside, the 2021 Altima focuses on high-quality materials. Soft-touch surfaces and available leather seating create an upscale environment. The center console is well-designed, featuring an intuitive layout of controls.

The steering wheel is optionally leather-wrapped, adding a touch of luxury. An 8-inch touchscreen is standard in higher trims, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Technology-wise, the Altima is equipped with USB ports, an available Premium Bose sound system, and an automatic climate control system for a refined in-cabin experience.

Cabin Comfort

Nissan’s commitment to comfort is evident in the spacious cabin of the Altima. The seats, available in both cloth and leather trims, are ergonomically designed to support long drives. Front seats can be power-adjustable with heating functions in some trims.

Legroom is ample for both front and rear passengers, providing a comfortable ride. Additional features like the dual-zone automatic climate control work to maintain an ideal temperature throughout the cabin.

Sound insulation has also been improved, making for a quieter and more serene driving experience. The overall design and amenities make daily commutes or long road trips pleasant for all occupants.

Engine and Performance

The 2021 Nissan Altima comes with two primary engine options, each providing a different level of power and driving dynamics. The basic engine offers adequate performance for everyday needs, while the VC-Turbo engine delivers more thrilling driving experiences.

Base Engine Specs

The standard engine on the 2021 Nissan Altima is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder that produces 188 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. This naturally aspirated engine is the primary powertrain for most Altima trims. It can be paired with Nissan’s available all-wheel-drive system, enhancing traction on slippery surfaces.

This engine is known for being quiet and efficient, making it well-suited for daily commuting and long highway drives. Despite its modest horsepower, the 2.5-liter engine handles city driving and highway merging with ease.

VC-Turbo Engine

The higher-performance option is the 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine, available exclusively in the SR trim. This engine innovatively adjusts its compression ratio to balance power and efficiency. It produces 248 horsepower and an impressive 273 pound-feet of torque.

The VC-Turbo engine’s power delivery is smooth, providing strong acceleration and a sporty feel. This makes it suitable for drivers seeking a more dynamic driving experience. It adds a level of excitement not typically found in midsize sedans.

Handling and Drive Quality

The 2021 Altima features well-tuned handling characteristics that contribute to a balanced and comfortable ride. The independent front and rear suspension systems offer good control on various road surfaces.

For those opting for the SR trim, the sport-tuned suspension enhances cornering performance, providing a more engaging driving experience. Both engine options deliver responsive steering, which helps with maneuverability in urban environments and stability on the highways.

Despite its focus on comfort, the Altima manages to stay composed during spirited driving. This blend of comfort and performance makes it appealing to a broad range of drivers, from daily commuters to those who enjoy occasional sporty driving.

Drivetrain and Chassis

The 2021 Nissan Altima features notable drivetrain options, including an available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, aimed at providing enhanced stability and traction. It also offers a Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) model, which contributes to its fuel efficiency.

All-Wheel Drive Capabilities

The Intelligent AWD system in the 2021 Nissan Altima is designed to automatically adjust torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. This system enhances traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions or on slippery roads.

The AWD system helps the Altima maintain optimal control by continuously monitoring driving conditions. Power is primarily sent to the front wheels under normal driving circumstances to maximize fuel efficiency. When the system detects wheel slippage, it can send up to 50% of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels.

This responsive AWD setup offers improved handling and confidence for the driver, making it a valuable feature for those who frequently drive in varying conditions. The integration of this system with the vehicle’s chassis ensures a smoother and controlled ride, contributing to overall ride quality.

Front-Wheel Drive Dynamics

The standard Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) configuration on the 2021 Nissan Altima is known for its efficient and predictable handling characteristics. FWD models benefit from improved fuel efficiency, making them a practical choice for daily commuting and long drives.

The FWD setup pairs with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) which offers seamless acceleration and contributes to the car’s smooth ride. The CVT’s design allows for better fuel economy and adaptability to different driving conditions.

By placing most of the vehicle’s weight over the front wheels, the FWD Altima enhances traction and stability. This configuration is particularly beneficial in dry conditions and contributes to the Altima’s agile handling. The chassis design complements the FWD system, providing consistent ride quality and minimizing body roll during cornering.

Technology and Infotainment

The 2021 Nissan Altima is well-equipped with an array of technology and infotainment features. At the center is a user-friendly touchscreen interface that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration with smartphones for navigation, music, and calls.

Drivers will appreciate the available ProPILOT Assist, which enhances the driving experience with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance. This feature offers added convenience, especially on long trips.

The infotainment system includes multiple USB ports, such as USB-A and USB-C, along with an auxiliary input, ensuring compatibility with a variety of devices. In select trims, the nine-speaker Bose audio system delivers exceptional sound quality, providing a superior listening experience.

Connectivity is further enhanced with built-in navigation, helping drivers find their destinations efficiently. The Altima’s tech-savvy design ensures that both drivers and passengers have access to modern conveniences and entertainment options.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The 2021 Nissan Altima prioritizes occupant safety with a plethora of standard and available features designed to protect and assist. It has achieved commendable safety ratings from both major safety organizations.

Safety Ratings

The 2021 Nissan Altima has been rigorously tested by safety bodies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

• The NHTSA awarded the Altima an impressive 5-star overall safety rating, reflecting its robust crashworthiness.
• The IIHS designated the Altima as a Top Safety Pick+ when equipped with specific headlights, recognizing its exceptional front crash prevention and crashworthiness.

These ratings underscore the Altima’s commitment to delivering a safe driving experience, instilling confidence among drivers and passengers alike.

Driver Assist Technologies

The 2021 Altima comes equipped with a suite of driver assistance features designed to enhance safety and convenience on the road.

Key technologies include:

• Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking, which aid in preventing front-end collisions.
• Blind-Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, enhancing awareness of surrounding vehicles and potential hazards.
• Lane-Departure Warning to prevent unintended lane shifts.

The integration of these systems demonstrates Nissan’s dedication to advancing vehicle safety through innovative driver assistance technologies.

Trim Levels and Features

The 2021 Nissan Altima offers a variety of trim levels that cater to a range of preferences and needs. Each trim comes with specific features and amenities designed to enhance the driving experience.

S and SV Trims

The base S trim of the 2021 Nissan Altima provides a solid entry-level option with essential features. It includes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. Notable amenities in this trim are Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an 8-inch touchscreen display.

The SV trim builds on the S trim with added convenience and safety features. It introduces the SV Premium Package, which includes a power driver’s seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and ProPilot Assist. The SV trim also offers more advanced safety options, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

SR and Platinum Trims

The SR trim is sportier, featuring a sport-tuned suspension for a more dynamic driving experience. It comes with 19-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and paddle shifters. For those seeking higher performance, the SR trim can also be equipped with a turbocharged engine option.

At the top of the lineup, the Platinum trim offers the most luxurious amenities. It includes leather-appointed seats, a nine-speaker Bose audio system, and navigation. The Platinum trim also features advanced driver-assistance technologies like Intelligent Around View Monitor and front and rear parking sensors, enhancing both comfort and safety.

Competitive Comparison

The 2021 Nissan Altima competes in the midsize sedan market with commendable features and capabilities. This section compares the Altima with contenders such as the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, and Subaru Legacy.

Against the Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry is known for its reliability and performance. The 2021 Camry offers a more engaging driving experience with its available V6 engine, in contrast to the Altima’s four-cylinder options. While the Camry boasts superior handling, the Altima provides a smoother ride thanks to its suspension setup.

Safety: Both vehicles prioritize safety with advanced driver-assistance features, but Toyota’s Safety Sense package is more comprehensive.

Interior: The Altima and Camry offer comfortable and spacious interiors, though the Camry’s cabin feels more upscale with higher quality materials.

Fuel Economy: The Camry matches the Altima in fuel efficiency, especially with its hybrid variant, which the Altima lacks.

Against the Honda Accord

The Honda Accord is a top competitor with its excellent blend of performance, comfort, and technology. The Accord’s turbocharged engines offer more power than the Altima’s, and its handling is more agile.

Technology: The Accord integrates a more user-friendly infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it more appealing for tech-savvy buyers.

Comfort: Both the Altima and Accord provide ample legroom and comfortable seating, but the Accord’s cabin feels a bit more refined.

Performance: When it comes to driving dynamics, the Accord has the edge. Its turbocharged engines deliver quicker acceleration compared to the Altima.

Challenging the Hyundai Sonata

The Hyundai Sonata challenges the Altima with its bold design and innovative features. The Sonata’s styling is more modern and distinct compared to the conservative design of the Altima.

Features: The Sonata boasts a longer list of standard features, including a digital key and wireless smartphone integration, which are extras on the Altima.

Warranty: Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty coverage surpasses that of Nissan, providing greater peace of mind for long-term ownership.

Engine Options: Although the Altima offers an optional all-wheel-drive system, the Sonata counters with a sportier N Line variant that the Altima lacks.

Comparison with Subaru Legacy

The Subaru Legacy stands out with its standard all-wheel drive (AWD), which is an optional feature on the Altima. This makes the Legacy a great choice for drivers in regions with rough weather conditions.

Safety: The Legacy includes Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology as a standard feature, closely paralleling the Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist.

Interior Quality: Both cars offer spacious interiors, but the Legacy incorporates more high-quality materials, giving it a slight edge in terms of luxury.

Performance: While the Altima and Legacy have similar engine options, the Legacy’s AWD provides superior handling and stability on slick surfaces.

Final Thoughts

The 2021 Nissan Altima stands out with its impressive engine choices. The 2.0-liter turbo-four delivers a robust 236 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This engine variant, named the VC-Turbo, showcases innovative variable compression technology.

Fuel efficiency is another strong point. The Altima boasts up to 32 MPG, providing an estimated 518 miles of range with its 16.2-gallon tank. This efficiency translates to lower gas costs, approximately $168 per month, which is below the industry average.

Comfort and convenience define the Altima’s interior. The cabin is spacious and quiet, making it a pleasant environment for both driver and passengers. Additionally, the available all-wheel drive enhances driving stability and handling.

With a starting price of $25,645, the Altima is a competitively priced mid-size sedan. It brings value through a combination of performance, efficiency, and advanced features.