Nissan ignited major interest from car buyers when its 6th generation midsize sedan debuted in the 2019 model year. The redesigned four-door netted a few milestones, including the world’s first production application of a variable compression turbo (VC turbo) engine as well as Nissan’s first U.S.-sold sedan to offer intelligent all wheel drive, a system that automatically redistributes torque to the wheels based on road conditions. Altima’s 2.0-liter 4-cylinder VC turbo engine (which replaces the prior sedan’s 3.5-liter V6), is joined by a new 2.5-liter inline 4- cylinder.

The tested all-wheel-drive Altima’s power provider was the 2.5-liter engine producing 182 horsepower and 178 lbs-ft of torque. Both the 2.0-liter TC Turbo engine and the 2.5-liter engine mate to an Xtronic continuously variable transmission. The Altima SR offers steering wheel paddle shifters for gear changes. During a week-long test drive, all-wheel-drive Altima SR demonstrated strong road grip and a comfortable ride. Altima is offered in five trims: S, SR, SV, SL, and Platinum. The tested Nissan Altima SR with AWD and 2.5-liter engine collects estimated mpg of 25 city, 35 highway and carries a base MSRP of $27,050.