Name: 2009 Nissan Altima
Brand: Nissan

Nissan Altima

RECALL ALERT: There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 4 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

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Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

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Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands

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2009 Midsized cars Ratings

2009 Nissan Altima

$4,675 - $5,600

CR MPG:

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$4,250 - $5,200

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$3,350 - $4,775

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2009 Dodge Avenger

$3,975 - $4,400

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2009 Ford Fusion

$4,175 - $5,200

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2009 Honda Accord

$6,750 - $7,275

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2009 Hyundai Sonata

$4,775 - $5,525

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2009 Kia Optima

$4,575 - $5,100

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2009 Mazda 6

$4,925 - $5,700

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2009 Mercury Milan

$4,175 - $5,300

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2009 Mitsubishi Galant

$4,550 - $5,475

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2009 Pontiac G6

$4,400 - $5,400

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2009 Saab 9-5

$5,175 - $6,575

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2009 Saturn Aura

$4,150 - $4,950

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2009 Subaru Legacy

$5,225 - $9,100

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2009 Toyota Camry

$6,725 - $7,475

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2009 Volkswagen Passat

$4,225 - $4,650

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Model History

2019-

Current Generation

The redesigned Altima offers all-wheel drive and a turbo engine. It is a rather unremarkable midsized sedan. That said, it's a competitive car that gets the job done. It delivers on room, fuel economy and user friendliness. But the driving experience is bland, falling short on handling agility, and the seemingly pliant ride isn't adept at absorbing all types of bumps. The standard 2.5-liter engine provides decent acceleration and the car gets commendable 31 mpg overall. With that engine, buyers can opt for all-wheel drive but not with the uplevel, more powerful 2.0-liter turbo engine. The car is relatively quiet. The cabin is roomy, if a bit too low for easy access. Controls are very easy to use and both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are compatible. To its credit, standard safety systems include automatic emergency braking. For 2021 pedestrian detection with automatic emergency braking is standard.

2013-2018

2013 Redesign Year

This version of the Altima was considerably less lustrous than its forebears. In a segment brimming with better cars, the 2013 Altima is a lackluster choice, ranking below virtually all of its competitors with a humdrum driving experience. If you do buy one, we suggest going with the 2.5SV to get a power driver's seat and blind spot monitoring. Advanced safety equipment, including forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, is only available on the 2.5SL and 3.5SL trims; in both cases as part of a Technology package. Said succinctly, we'd skip this version of the Altima. There are many better choices within the crowded midsized sedan field.

2007-2012

2007 Redesign Year

The well-rounded 2007 redesign was even better, with an improved ride, especially with the powerful -- yet economical -- four-cylinder engine. The sportier 3.5 SE handles more sharply, but rides stiffly. Interior fit and finish are improved over the previous model, but the rear seat is less roomy. All Altimas have pushbutton keyless start. The 2010 freshening brought the previously optional stability control as a standard feature. Antilock brakes and brake assist are also standard equipment for this generation. A hybrid version was offered as well, but was dropped after 2011; its powertrain returned 32 mpg.

2002-2006

2002 Redesign Year

The third-generation Altima was much roomier than its predecessors. It was also quick, fairly comfortable, and generally competitive. Among its attributes are generous accommodations, a punchy and refined powertrain, nimble and secure handling, as well as a pleasant ride and a quiet cabin. Rear-seat passengers get large-car legroom and can easily stretch, or cross their legs. Though the roomy interior is stylish, fit and finish could be better, as some of the interior plastics look and feel cheap. Be apprised, IIHS side-crash-test results were poor without the optional curtain airbags. Anti-lock brakes were optional as well. For this reason, you'll want to look for a car equipped with the ABS/airbag Package.

1998-2001

1998 Redesign Year

The Altima aimed to compete with the four-cylinder Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, but never stacked up to them. Handling was less than nimble and the ride was busy. The noisy engine delivered strong acceleration. The front seats were too low and rear seating was fairly cramped. The rear seatback didn't fold down. The Altima was redesigned for 1998, evolving the same basic formula. It was slightly freshened for 2000. It remained a not very rewarding family sedan.

Nissan Altima

2009 Sedans & Hatchbacks Reliability

Crash and Rollover Tests

Crash and Rollover Tests

Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands

Owner Reports

Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands

Nissan vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash and Rollover Tests

2009 Midsized cars Ratings