What's New in the 2019 Nissan Altima?
The Nissan Altima has been fully redesigned for the 2019 model year. The new Altima has replaced its predecessor, which was becoming a bit forgettable when compared to the very strong competition from recently updated competitors. The new Altima has a new look that is leading an updated design language for the rest of the Nissan brand. There are some noticeable similarities in design with the previous Altima, but the new generation looks a bit sportier and more premium. The 2019 Altima has an efficient naturally aspirated base engine similar to the one in the outgoing model plus a very interesting new VC-Turbo 2.0-liter
inline-four engine available. It's the variable compression engine first introduced in the
Infiniti QX50, which can actually change its compression ratio on the fly depending on the driver's inputs. We won't get too deep into the mechanical details, but it means it can deliver stronger performance when the driver demands it and better fuel economy at steady cruising speeds. The VC-Turbo engine makes 236 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, which is less horsepower, but more torque than the available
V6 in the outgoing Altima. Another big feature available on the new Altima is all-wheel drive, which is uncommon in non-luxury midsize sedans. Curiously, AWD is only available with the base engine. If you want the VC-Turbo engine, you can't get it with AWD, and vice versa. However, AWD makes the Altima more competitive and should make it a popular choice in snowy climates where that extra traction can go a long way in the winter.
See the 2019 Nissan Altima models for sale near youWhich Altima is the Best?
The new Altima is a well-rounded sedan what's big on value with generous standard features and some very interesting available features and tech. For the enthusiast who needs the practicality of a midsize sedan, you won't be disappointed by a VC-Turbo Altima, especially a sporty SR model, which is a surprising sport sedan bargain. If you don't care so much about performance and are more concerned about all-weather traction, the fact that AWD is available on every trim (plus the car's impressive AWD fuel economy) is a huge plus that gives the Altima a competitive edge over its tough rivals. It's hard to say which model we recommend, since the car's personality can change quite a bit to suit different wants and needs, but we think the Altima SV is in a sweet spot of safety, features and value that will satisfy most drivers.
Find a Nissan Altima for saleHow Much Does a 2019 Nissan Altima Cost?
Standard features is one of the strong suits of the 2019 Altima. The base
S trim ($24,795) includes the base engine making 188 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque linked to a
continuously variable transmission. Some standard driver-assistance tech includes cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, a backup camera and intelligent driver alertness. You get the basics like air conditioning and power windows plus standard remote start, a power driver's seat, and a nice 8-in NissanConnect infotainment system, which comes loaded with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth. These are connectivity features we always like to see come as standard. Upgrade to the
SR trim ($26,145) and you get a sporty appearance package with 19-in wheels, LED headlights, and a dark chrome grille plus paddle shifters and an impressive sport-tuned suspension. The SR model is the trim where the VC-Turbo engine becomes available ($30,195). Other perks of the SR trim include blind spot monitoring,
rear cross traffic alert, sport cloth seat trim, and faux carbon fiber interior trim. The next step up the model range is the Altima
SV ($28,975), which adds adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, rear sonar with rear automatic braking, high-beam assist, and intelligent lane intervention, and ProPilot Assist, which helps you keep your car in your lane at a safe distance from the car in front of you during highway driving and can even come to a full stop and continue moving when traffic gets moving again. The SV trim also adds automatic
dual-zone climate control, back seat air vents, remote start with intelligent climate control, a universal garage door opener, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, LED fog lights and a power moonroof. The Altima SV is a safe and comfortable family sedan that doesn't break the bank. The Altima
SL ($30,885) further adds to what the SV model throws in. It gets into luxury territory with leather seats, a power adjustable front passenger seat, navigation, Bose premium audio, HD radio, wood tone interior trim, traffic sign recognition and active noise cancellation. If you want to move up even further, you can upgrade to the Altima
Platinum ($32,825), which adds beautiful 19-in alloy wheels, an Intelligent Around View Monitor 360-degree camera, a driver's memory seat, and interior accent lighting. The Altima Platinum is a really nice car, but we're not sure it's worth the upcharge over the SL model if you're going with the base engine. However, it's worth noting that the Platinum trim is available with the VC-Turbo engine and the SV and SL trims aren't. For the height of luxury in a Nissan Altima, you can upgrade to the
Edition ONE VC-Turbo model ($36,645). This special trim is only available with the VC-Turbo engine and comes with special 19-in dark gray alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, external ground lighting, Edition ONE floor mats, and the Nissan Concierge service, which, as of this writing, is exclusive specifically to this car. It works a lot like a concierge at a hotel. It's a 24/7 service where someone from Nissan's live concierge team can help you with hotel and restaurant suggestions and reservations, weather forecasts, movie listings, events and festivals, wake up calls, and even gift recommendations. This is a neat idea, but frankly, many of these services can be achieved with a smartphone.