New York 2012: 2013 Nissan Altima

William Maley
Editor/Reporter - CheersandGears.com
April 3, 2012

Nissan was planning to show off the new 2013 Altima tomorrow at the New York Auto Show. But the internet struck once again, releasing pictures and information about it.

The new Altima borrows a lot of styling from the larger Maxima. Sharp lines, more aggressive front fascia, large headlights pulled back over the fenders, short decklid, and angular boomerang taillamps finish the look.

Inside the Altima, the cabin presents a clean, simpledesign with what looks to be an easy-to-navigate center stack and an organized instrument cluster. The instrument cluster also includes a four-inch color TFT display in between the speedometer and tachometer, that displays turn-by-turn navigation,blind spot monitoring, tire pressure, audio data, trip information and other things.

Powertrain wise, the Altima is still offered with a four-cylinder and V6. The base 2.5L four-cylinder gets some improvements in the form of a magnesium oil pan, variable low intake manifold, and a new alternator. Those changes up horsepower from 175 to 182, while torque stands at 180 lb-ft. The 3.5L V6 carries over with 270 HP and 258 lb-ft. Both engines go through a CVT transmission.

Fuel economy on the Altima stands at:
2.5L four: 27 City/38 Highway
3.5L V6: 22 City/30 Highway

Nissan has also put the 2013 Altima on diet. Compared to the outgoing model, the 2013 model is 79 lbs lighter. That's due to Nissan using lightweight materials including an aluminum hood.

As for the driving experience, Nissan says new Altima will be much more of a driver's car than the outgoing model thanks to new multi-link rear suspension setup and a feature called Active Understeer Control. Active Understeer Control brakes the front wheels to reduce understeer while cornering.




Press Release is on Page 2