beebs
Skip to main content

2016 Nissan Altima review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Nissan Altima highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • An excellent pair of engine options
  • A quiet and refined ride
  • Simple and functional tech

Cons

  • The base engine noise is harsh at high revs
  • Less headroom in the rear than competitors
  • CVT tends to run the engine rpm high

Mileage (EPA estimate)

22 city, 32 highway, 26 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

View our Nissan Altima inventory
Lighting bolt logo
Can an EV fit my lifestyle? Image of woman on smartphone while charging an EV

Does an EV fit my lifestyle?

On this page

Find your Altima
then buy online or in-store

Learn more about getting pre-qualified with no impact to your credit score
Price
Year
Search our Altima inventorySearch for a different car

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.

Get Pre-qualified

A comfortable and fun-to-drive sedan

Going beyond the characteristics of a typical midsized family sedan, the 2016 Nissan Altima impresses with comfort, performance, and functionality. For example, the two engine options have zippy acceleration while ensuring you can go further between fill-ups. Plus, there are tech features in 3.6 SV and SL trims that let you stay connected while on the go. However, even the base model is well-equipped with the features a modern family demands. Finally, the smooth ride and comfortable seats deliver a refined experience.

All Nissan Altima years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Nissan Altima generation from 2012 to 2025

What is new for the 2016 Nissan Altima?

  • Trim Added: New Sport trim for enhanced performance
  • Standard Equipment on all: Now includes advanced safety features
  • New Equipment: Updated infotainment system with larger touchscreen and improved connectivity options
  • Standard Equipment on select trims: Upgraded premium audio system available
  • Removals: Manual transmission option discontinued for all trims

5 reasons to buy the 2016 Nissan Altima

1. Useful interior functionality 

Bring your family and all their gear with them in the 2016 Nissan Altima. That’s because of the 15.4 cu-ft of trunk space, which has plenty of room for things like luggage, sports gear, golf clubs, a folded stroller, or groceries. Plus, the 60/40 split-folding rear seats let you expand the storage space to fit longer items without sacrificing the whole back seat. Finally, the spacious rear entry and easy-to-find LATCH anchors are ideal for rear-facing child seats. 

2. Comfortable seating and smooth ride 

Sit back and relax in the comfortable and supportive seats of the 2016 Nissan Altima. Because the seats are cushioned with padding that keeps you in place, they won’t feel hard on long trips. Additionally, the suspension dampens rough roads while a solid interior build keeps most wind and road noise at bay. 

3. Engaging and fun to drive 

Defying the stereotype that midsized sedans have muted driving dynamics, the 2016 Nissan Altima puts the fun back into functionality. That’s because of a pair of engine options that are responsive and engaging. Plus, the suspension is tuned to keep the 2016 Nissan Altima level in hard cornering, which keeps the wheels planted and delivers crisp handling in tight turns. 

4. Two capable engine options 

The 2016 Nissan Altima is powered by a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with 128 horsepower. When you pair this with the CVT, a 2016 Nissan Altima and the four-cylinder get impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy numbers of 39 mpg highway and 27 mpg city.

Or, look for a 2015 Nissan Altima with the 270-hp 3.5L V6 for added power, while still getting an EPA-estimated 31 mpg highway and 22 mpg city fuel mileage.
 

5. Trims with in-demand tech 

Stay connected with streaming audio and a selection of smartphone-integrated apps in the 2016 Nissan Altima 2.5 S and higher trims. Plus, you get Bluetooth® connectivity, a five-inch touchscreen, and navigation. Or, look for the Technology package, which includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-departure warning. 

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.

Get Pre-qualified

Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.3 out of 5

47 customer reviews
The 2016 Nissan Altima balances fuel efficiency with reliable handling, offering comfortable interior space. While its quiet cabin is appreciated, power and technology features receive mixed reviews, with complaints about acceleration and outdated systems. It stands out for affordability, though reliability concerns, especially for older units, arise in longer-term ownership.

RepairPal reliability rating

4
Excellent

RepairPal gave the Nissan Altima an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Excellent. This rating ranks Nissan Altima 14th out of 28 among Midsize Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Nissan Altima

Nissan Altima features and specs

Curious how Nissan Altima trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

SV 4D Sedan 2WD

Standard Features

  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Smart Key
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Remote Start
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Automatic Transmission
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • CD Audio
  • Satellite Radio Ready

Optional Features

  • Cloth Seats
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Smart Key
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Navigation System

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.5L

Horsepower

182

Torque (ft-lbs)

180

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

18

Wheelbase

109.3"

Overall length

191.9"

Width

72"

Height

57.8"

Leg room

F 45"/R 36.1"

Head room

F 40"/R 37.1"

Front tires

P215/55VR17

Rear tires

P215/55VR17

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2016 Nissan Altima FAQ

Nissan Altima articles

Best Used High-MPG Cars for 2023: Abstract | CarMax

Best High-MPG Used Cars for 2023

Looking for ways to cut down on fuel stops? A high mpg car could be right for you. Check out this list of the 10 most popular used cars at CarMax, ranked by their EPA-estimated combined fuel economy, to discover which one can help you save at the pump.
10 Sedans That Fit 3 Car Seats Across: Abstract | CarMax

10 Sedans That Fit 3 Car Seats Across

Looking for a four-door that's wide enough to fit three car seats side by side? We've got you covered. In this article, we compile a list of 10 sedans that can accommodate three car seats comfortably based on rear-seat hip room.
10 Best Sedans for 2022: Abstract | CarMax

10 Best Sedans for 2022: Reviews, Photos, and More

If you're shopping for your next sedan, you're in the right place. Keep reading for an overview of some of the most practical models out there in this list of the 10 best used sedans for 2022 shoppers — based on CarMax sales data from June 1, 2021, through November 30, 2021.
Best midsize sedans: Abstract | CarMax

10 Best Midsize Sedans for 2022: Reviews, Photos, and More

Looking for a great five-seat daily driver? You've come to the right place. To help you on your search, we've compiled a list of the 10 best used midsize sedans for 2022 shoppers, based on CarMax vehicle and sales data from June 1, 2021, through November 30, 2021.
Nissan Altima vs. Honda Accord: Abstract | CarMax

Nissan Altima vs. Honda Accord

Are you looking for a midsize sedan with comfortable seating and great on-road manners? You can explore photos, key features, specs, and more in this side-by-side comparison of the Nissan Altima vs. the Honda Accord.
8 Best Times to Buy a Used Car

8 Best Times to Buy a Used Car

If you're undergoing a big life change, like getting hitched, adding to your family, or starting a new job, you might also be feeling the itch to refresh your ride. If so, read on to learn more about the best times to buy a used car to help you on your search for the right car for you.
10 Cars That Get Great Gas Mileage

10 Cars That Get Great Gas Mileage

These 10 cars are some of our most popular* vehicles, and they all get over 25 MPG. Whether you want to buy a car that's sporty and fun, practical and comfortable, or luxurious and full of options, there's a high-MPG car for you.

Want to view more trending articles?

Research other vehicles


* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities.​ By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.

We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.