2005 Nissan Altima Review

Specifications

Mom and Pop Enthusiasts Rejoice

The completely revised Nissan Altima changed the way North Americans perceived entry-level midsize sedans when it arrived in 2001 as a 2002 model. Not only was it stylish, appearing more upscale than anything in its class, but its base engine boasted more power than some of its rivals V6 engines. And the Altimas V6? Well, it was simply over the top.

Nissan has improved interior tactile quality, the only major complaint anyone had about the car, in a 2005 model year upgrade. Along with the upgraded cabin are subtle mid-cycle styling tweaks across the Altima lineup, but none more exciting than the introduction of a special sport version for mom and pop enthusiasts who want a little more zing in their daily driver.

Now heading for production is the Altima SE-R, marking the first time Nissans SE-R label will be fixed to something other than a Sentra.

“The letters SE-R have come to represent fast, affordable and fun to Nissan performance enthusiasts,” said Mark McNabb, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “Until now, our SE-R editions have been limited to the Sentra line. With the new Altima, the SE-R not only grows up, it reaches a wider audience.”

Visually, the Altima SE-R is bold, with a deep front valance and air dam incorporating powerful fog lamps and a redesigned hood sporting a center-mounted bulge.

The backend of the car receives a similar go-fast body treatment, displaying a new tail skirt with openings for dual exhaust ports. A discrete trunklid spoiler adds the final touch, capping off a seriously sported up sedan.

Some additional features separate the SE-R from regular Altimas, starting with its reduced ride height and 18-inch ten-spoke forged alloy wheels wrapped in 225/45 ZR 18 rubber.

On the inside, the new SE-R boasts all the amenities of the top of the line Altima including a powerful Bose sound system, black leather seating, a three-spoke sport steering wheel and special dark chrome accents. Setting it apart is a special 3-gauge center instrument cluster.

“The Altima SE-R is targeted at the performance buyer who wants it all - but wants it for under $30,000,” added McNabb. “The Altima SE-R is all about providing a great driving experience for enthusiasts without money to burn.”

The heart of the Altima SE-R is stronger than in any other Altima. Although the engine starts out with the same award-winning 3.5-liter V6 that most other trim levels feature, the motor has been tweaked to extract extra power, plus high-flow mufflers have been added. Nissan is coy about the cars actual output figures though, but they are confident the improved powerplant will exceed 250 horsepower.

As for the transmission, its up to the prospective owner to choose between a sporty six-speed manual or five speed automatic gearbox. As the SE-R still uses its front wheels for power, it is heavily advised that the optional traction control be fitted.

Aside from its visual mods and improved power, the Altima SE-R is equipped with stiffer springs that drop the ride height, reduce body roll and improve road-holding. Stiffer dampers and larger anti-roll bars also compliment the revised suspension setup.

Balancing the “whoa” factor of the added performance is an upgraded braking system consisting of standard ABS, brake force distribution, brake assist, and painted brake calipers for visual appeal.

“The Altima SE-R hits a critical position between the tuner-style Sentra SE-R and the sporty Maxima SE, which offers more refinement,” added McNabb. “The Altima SE-R is more aggressive, yet it has all the core attributes and affordability of an Altima. Its the sports sedan for enthusiasts whove grown up - but not too much.”

The Altima SE-R made its debut at the New York auto show last month. It will become available in mid-September of 2004 with a price tag said to be less than $30,000.