2012 Nissan Altima Coupe Review
The 2012 Nissan Altima comes in a coupe and a sedan with 3 available trim levels. A CVT, (continuously variable automatic transmission) is standard on all Altima sedans; however, it is an option on the coupe, which has 6-speed manual as standard. A few standard features on the Altima sedan include keyless entry, cruise control, AC, full power accessories, trip computer and more.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Nissan Altima doesn’t force drivers to choose between affordability and a stylish, fun to drive experience, with road and wind noise nicely muted on highway commutes.
What’s New For 2012:
In 2012 the Nissan Altima remained the same with the exception of a few minor adjustments on the features available. Also, discontinued in 2012 was the Hybrid Altima.
What is the Predicted Reliability:
The Nissan Altima scores exceptionally well for reliability receiving an impressive score of 91 against the top score in the segment of 93. Especially noteworthy are its response and secure handling, one of the quietest cabins in the family sedan segment, very good interior quality and storage, brakes and impressive fuel economy. In J.D. Power initial quality study the Altima received an initial overall quality score of 4 out of 5.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The IIHS gave the Altima the highest possible score for front and side crashes with the NHTSA awarding an overall score of 4 Stars out of a possible 5. All Altima’s come equipped standard with stability/traction control, antilock brakes, front seat side-impact as well as curtain side airbags covering both rows.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+Quiet cabin
+Responsive and capable steering
+Large number of electronic features available
Cons
-Small backseat
-The way that optional packages are bundled
-The coupe has small trunk compared to others
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Nissan Altima has a slightly higher starting price than the Kia Optima though is slightly lower than the Honda Accord. The Altima has the larger gas tank at 20 gallons compared to both the Accord and Optima with 18.5 gallon tanks. Fuel economy is close across the board with the Optima being rated at 23MPG city/32MPG highway compared to the Accord with 23/34MPG and the Optima with 24/35MPG. The Altima comes with a 175hp engine versus the Accord’s slightly higher 177hp engine and the Optima has a 200hp engine.
What Others Are Saying:
"The 2012 Altima is a model of inconspicuous good looks. The angles and curves are properly aligned, and its look is neat and proper. Because it’s a sedan, the Altima is easy for kids to get into and out of, and the doors are lightweight enough to open easily." – The Chicago Tribune
"The Nissan Altima is a quietly competent vehicle. There’s no flashy design, no fancy dual-clutch automatic transmission, and no high-performance pretensions here. But there’s also nothing really wrong with the Altima, which is why it’s always near the top of the all-important mid-size-sedan sales charts." – Automobile Magazine
Read more about the 2012 Nissan Altima at the Nissan manufacturer site.
