The Nissan Altima has been a staple in the sedan market since its U.S. debut in 1993. Known for its balance of affordability, reliability, and comfort, the Altima quickly gained favor among American drivers seeking value-packed vehicles. Over the years, the Altima evolved from a compact-sized sedan to a full-fledged midsize contender, integrating modern technologies, improved performance, and better fuel efficiency. Some years stand out for their exceptional reliability and owner satisfaction, making them great choices for used car buyers. Below, we highlight seven of the best Nissan Altima years based on owner reviews, reliability records, and minimal complaint data from reputable sources like CarComplaints.com, J.D. Power, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

2001 Nissan Altima

The 2001 Altima, part of the second generation, marked the end of an era before the major redesign in 2002. Known for its simple yet durable engineering, it was an ideal choice for buyers seeking a reliable older sedan. These days, of course, it will be difficult to locate one in pristine condition.

Equipped with a 2.4L inline-4 engine, it delivered a respectable 155 horsepower while maintaining good fuel economy for its time. Its lightweight design contributed to responsive handling, making it enjoyable to drive both in the city and on the highway. Owners often cite its straightforward maintenance needs as a major benefit, with many 2001 models lasting well beyond 200,000 miles when properly cared for. Its compact size and efficient use of space also make it a practical option for urban drivers.

2007 Nissan Altima

The 2007 Altima introduced the fourth generation with a complete redesign, bringing a sportier exterior, better handling, and upgraded interior features. This model offered two engine choices: the 2.5L four-cylinder engine and the robust 3.5L V6. The latter provided 270 horsepower, giving it a performance edge over many competitors in the midsize sedan segment.

The introduction of the Xtronic CVT transmission marked a significant shift for Nissan. While some earlier CVTs encountered issues, the 2007 model avoided widespread complaints, earning it praise for fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration. Owners also appreciated the enhanced cabin materials and intuitive layout of controls. With its blend of style, performance, and comfort, the 2007 Altima remains a sought-after model on the used market.

2012 Nissan Altima

The 2012 Altima is often celebrated as one of the most dependable years of the fourth generation. This model benefited from years of refinement, resulting in a well-rounded vehicle that excelled in both reliability and value.

Its 2.5L four-cylinder engine and 3.5L V6 options provided reliable performance, with the latter offering an exhilarating driving experience. The 2012 Altima also delivered excellent fuel economy, with the four-cylinder variant achieving up to 32 MPG on the highway. Owners praise its comfortable ride and quiet cabin, making it an excellent choice for long commutes or family road trips.

Additionally, this model year had fewer reported issues with its CVT compared to earlier models, reflecting Nissan’s commitment to improving its technology. The combination of reliability, performance, and comfort makes the 2012 Altima a standout year.

2015 Nissan Altima

The 2015 Altima built on the strengths of its predecessors while addressing some of the concerns from earlier years. This model offered a refined driving experience, with better steering feedback and a quieter cabin. Its 2.5L four-cylinder engine remained a popular choice, delivering a balance of performance and efficiency, while the optional 3.5L V6 added extra power for those seeking more spirited driving.

One of the most significant upgrades in the 2015 Altima was its safety features. Advanced options like blind-spot monitoring and forward-collision warning became available, adding an extra layer of protection for drivers and passengers. The Altima’s sleek design and comfortable seating also contributed to its appeal, making it a top contender in the midsize sedan category.

2017 Nissan Altima

The 2017 Altima is widely regarded as one of the most reliable models in the lineup, thanks to its improved CVT performance and high-quality construction. Nissan focused on reducing cabin noise and enhancing ride comfort, resulting in a serene driving experience.

This model year introduced additional safety technologies, including forward emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, which were becoming essential for modern vehicles. Owners frequently praise its spacious interior, user-friendly infotainment system, and excellent fuel efficiency, with the four-cylinder version achieving up to 39 MPG on the highway. These features make the 2017 Altima a smart choice for families and long-distance drivers.

2019 Nissan Altima

The fully redesigned 2019 Altima represented a significant leap forward for the brand. It was the first Altima to offer all-wheel drive (AWD), catering to drivers in regions with challenging weather conditions. This model also introduced the optional VC-Turbo engine, which adjusted compression ratios on the fly to optimize both performance and fuel efficiency.

Inside, the 2019 Altima featured a modern cabin with a sleek dashboard design and advanced infotainment options, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety was a priority, with the addition of Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite, offering features like lane-departure warning and automatic emergency braking. With its combination of cutting-edge technology, practicality, and style, the 2019 Altima is a standout choice.

2021 Nissan Altima

The 2021 Altima continues to impress with its advanced technology, smooth handling, and strong reliability scores. Building on the success of the 2019 redesign, it retained AWD availability and a fuel-efficient 2.5L engine. The interior featured an upgraded infotainment system with smartphone integration and a user-friendly interface.

Drivers appreciate the Altima’s comfortable seats, making it ideal for extended trips. Its safety features, including adaptive cruise control and rear cross-traffic alert, provide peace of mind for families. According to CarComplaints.com, the 2021 Altima has a low number of reported issues, reflecting Nissan’s dedication to quality improvement. For those seeking a modern and dependable midsize sedan, the 2021 model is an excellent choice.

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We picked these Altima years based on their strong reliability records, minimal owner complaints, and features that enhance the driving experience. The 2012 and 2017 models, for example, boast excellent reliability and affordability. Meanwhile, the 2019 and 2021 models stand out for their innovative technologies and design. Buyers of these years are more likely to enjoy the Altima’s hallmark balance of comfort, performance, and value.