Nissan Chief Executive Carlos Ghosn has set an ambitious goal to get 10 percent of the North American market. That might sound impossible to achieve, considering that Nissan has historically sold fewer models than its major Japanse competitors, Toyota and Honda. But according to Bloomberg News, Nissan actually edged passed Honda in the first half of 2016.
Bloomberg attributes the increase to generous sales incentives to individual customers and a surge in fleet sales. But those with long memories will remember that Nissan has also produced its share of innovative models over the years, beginning when it was known as Datsun. They included the original 510 compact sedan, which features an independent rear suspension and became known as the poor mans BMW. And of course the 240Z sports car and its successors, which redefined what an affordable sports car could be.
So it shouldnt be a surprise that Nissan is making some pretty good vehicles these days that consumers actually want to own, incentives aside. The sedan lineup is especially strong, including with the value-packed Sentra compact and redesigned full-size Maxima, which is turning heads with its aggressive styling and smooth ride.
Our newest Nissan test vehicle was the midsize Altima, which received a midseason refresh for 2016 to keep it competitive in one of the hottest market segments. The updated front and rear end treatments enhance the crisp exterior lines, while the addition of a sporty RS version should appeal to those who want their affordable family cars to also be fun.
But much of the cars appeal carries over from last year. Strong points include enough interior room for five adults, the choice of an economical 2.5-liter inline four cylinder engine or powerful 3.5-liter V6, and one of the best Continuously Variable Transmissions on the market. Although CVTs can be tuned to maximize fuel economy or performance, most feel unresponsive. But Nissan has figured out how to make their feel like a well-engineered automatic transmission that still help to deliver good mileage.
Our test model was a top-of-the-line SL version, which came with practically every option except the V6. It arrived with jet black exterior paint, shiny alloy wheels and a tan interior with brushed aluminum and light wood trim, all of which helped create an upscale feel. It on the road felt light and nimble, with the suspension doing a good job absorbing broken pavement.
Although only equipped with the base four cylinder engine, acceleration was good, especially with the shifter in the Sport mode that reduced mileage a little. Even so, after a week of mixed drive in both the Normal and Sport mode, we still got over 30 miles per gallon, which is very respectable for a non-hybrid midsize car.
Trim levels on the Altima start at base and go up to S, SR, SV, and SL. Naturally, each step up adds convenience, infotainment and safety features, and bumps up the price accordingly. But practically everything an owner could possibly desire is available, with option packages increasing the choices.
Some midsize sedans might be flashier or offer more exotic engine choices, but our Altima did everything well, including climbing steep hills and getting up to freeway speeds with just the smaller base engine. It also had two features that should appeal to American consumers, an industrial strength air condition that easily handled a week of 90-plus degree temperatures and enough trunk space for a set of gold clubs.
With a starting price of $22,500 for the base trim, the 2016 Nissan Altima is one of the most affordable midsize sedans on the market. And our SL version was only $32,115, which is a good price for such a well equipped family car. Adding the V6 would have increased the price a bit, but, unlike some competitors, most owners should be satisfied with the smaller, more economical engine.
2016 Nissan Altima SL 2.5
Base price: $27,995
Price as tested: $32,115
Type: Mid-size sedan
Engines: 2.5-liter inline 4 (182 hp, 180 lbs-ft - as tested); 3.5-liter V6 (270 hp, 251 lbs-ft)
Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission with Sport mode
EPA estimated mileage: 27/39 to 22/32
Overall length: 191.9 inches
Curb weight: 3,197 to 3,462 pounds
Final Assembly: Smyrna, Tennessee