The Nissan Altima, while a popular mid-size sedan, does come with certain drawbacks that potential buyers should consider. These primarily revolve around its powertrain limitations, transmission characteristics, and general reliability concerns. For a deeper dive into vehicle assessments and owner experiences, one can refer to detailed automotive reviews.
Key Disadvantages of the Nissan Altima
Here's a breakdown of the main cons associated with the Nissan Altima:
| Con | Description |
|---|---|
| Limited All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) Availability | All-wheel-drive is only offered with the base 188-horsepower four-cylinder engine. If you desire a more powerful or sportier trim, like those competing with models such as the Kia K5 or Toyota Camry, AWD is not an option. |
| Continuously Droning Transmission | The Altima utilizes a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which can often produce a noticeable "droning" sound during acceleration. This can detract from the overall driving experience, especially for those who prefer a more traditional geared transmission feel. |
| Potential Technical Difficulties | Like any complex machinery, the Nissan Altima may experience various technical issues or difficulties, which could range from minor glitches to more significant problems. |
Limited All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) Availability
A significant drawback for the Nissan Altima is the restriction of its all-wheel-drive system. Unlike some competitors that offer AWD across various engine options, the Altima limits this feature exclusively to its base 188-horsepower four-cylinder engine. This means that if a driver seeks the enhanced traction and stability of AWD combined with a more powerful or performance-oriented engine, they will be disappointed as the sportier trims of the Altima do not offer this configuration. This strategic limitation positions the Altima differently from rivals like the Kia K5 and Toyota Camry, which might provide broader AWD availability.
Continuously Droning Transmission
The Nissan Altima is equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). While CVTs are designed for fuel efficiency, a common complaint among drivers of the Altima is the "droning" sound the transmission produces, particularly under acceleration. This characteristic sound can be quite prominent and may affect the perception of refinement and driving enjoyment for some individuals. The lack of distinct shift points, typical of traditional automatic transmissions, combined with this sustained engine noise, can make the driving experience less engaging or even monotonous for some.
Potential Technical Difficulties
Prospective buyers should also be aware that the Nissan Altima, like many vehicles, can be susceptible to various technical difficulties. While specifics can vary by model year and individual vehicle, these issues can range from minor electronic glitches to more significant mechanical concerns. It is advisable for potential owners to research specific model years for common reported issues and consider vehicle history reports when purchasing.
