Car Review: 2013 Nissan Altima 3.5 Sedan

THE 2013 NISSAN ALTIMA 3.5 SEDAN REVIEW

Summary Review by Tess: The Best of Both Worlds

The 2013 Nissan Altima 3.5 sedan returns with a brand-new look for the new model year. This four-door sedan has been a mainstay of the family transportation segment for a number of years, so this cosmetic makeover comes at an opportune time for Nissan’s best-selling automobile. An enhanced silhouette with sleeker lines adds a European-inspired flair to this formerly staid sedan, and the interior gets its share of attention with upgraded materials and more intuitive visual cues for the driver. The V6 engine returns with minimal changes and continues to deliver solid performance and above average fuel economy in this competitive automotive segment.

Under the hood
The 3.5-liter engine of the Nissan Altima 3.5 produces 270 horsepower, 258 lb-ft of torque, and can manage 0 to 60 in 6.2 seconds, a respectable showing for this type of vehicle. The Nissan Altima 3.5 features a continuously variable-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and front-wheel drive; it delivers excellent fuel economy for its size and weight at 22 miles to the gallon in the city and 30 miles per gallon highway. (See estimated annual fuel costs with the Altima 3.5 sedan). Safety features are a major selling point for the Altima due to its role as a family car. These include the expected range of air bags along with stability and traction controls and antilock braking.

(Check out the redesigned, more fuel-efficient four-cylinder Altima, netting 38 mpg hwy).

Inside the cabin
The Nissan Altima 3.5 sedan is available in three trim levels. On the base model, standard features include Bluetooth interface, six-speaker CD stereo sound system with MP3 playback capability, keyless startup and entry, cruise control, power accessories, and air conditioning with an advanced air filtration system. Options for the Altima 3.5 include leather upholstery, rearview camera, sunroof, and power-adjustable driver seat. A premium Bose stereo system is also available as an upgrade.

On the road
Performance-oriented drivers will appreciate the solid acceleration provided by the Altima’s sturdy 3.5-liter V6 engine. The upgraded suspension provides improved cornering and handling, allowing this family sedan to take on the toughest driving challenges with confidence and aplomb.

Conclusions
The redesign of the Nissan Altima 3.5 sedan has made a good car even better. The enhanced exterior styling is perfectly complemented by the interior upgrades. The 2013 Nissan Altima 3.5 delivers outstanding acceleration and power in a sleek, polished package ideal for family transportation or handling the daily commute in style.

Details:
Engine: 3.5-liter DOHC V6
Horsepower & Torque: 270 hp/258 lb-ft
Transmission: FWD continuously variable-speed automatic
Fuel Economy: 22/30
0 to 60: 6.2 seconds
Base MSRP: $25,360

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