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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

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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?

  • The Altima is available in a new trim called the SR.
  • Altima trims have been upgraded with Leatherette & Cloth, Rear Spoiler, and Satellite Radio Ready as standard equipment this year.
  • Automated Cruise Control features are now available as options on select 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. 

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.3 out of 5

47 customer reviews
The 2016 Nissan Altima is a mid-size car that is spacious and economical. Customers like the car's performance and the car's features.

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

SL 2WD 4D Sedan

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • BOSE Sound System
  • CD Audio
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Leather Seats
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Remote Start
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Traction Control

Optional Features

  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Leather Seats
  • Navigation System
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Smart Key
  • Sunroof(s)

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

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Nissan Altima inventory

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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.

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