Nissan has unveiled the new Altima saloon at the New York motor show. The new Altima will come with a choice of two engines – a 2.5-litre four-pot with 180bhp and 180lb ft of torque and a 3.5-litre V6 – and fuel economy figures which, says Nissan, will better those offered by the new BMW 328i.
Interior features of the new car - which remains North America's second biggest seller - include NASA-inspired ‘zero-gravity’ seats, which ‘reduce muscular and spinal loads and improve blood flow.’
Bluetooth comes as standard, with blind spot warning, and lane departure warning offered as options.
Despite retaining the outgoing Altima’s wheelbase, Nissan has widened the front and rear track by 36mm.
Sales and Marketing boss Brian Carolin said: "In a segment as critical as this, with longtime nameplates and new challengers fighting for every sale, it's not enough to just target the competition.
"We created the new Altima to set a clearly recognized benchmark for many years to come."
Prices of the 2013 US-spec car start from $21,500 (£13,500) and rise to $25,360 (£15,900) for the bigger V6-powered version.
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Re: New York: 2013 Nissan Altima
Private punters don't buy big saloons, only company car users do and they buy premium badges.
Private punters buy crossovers, hatches and other cars designed to be used by people. Saloons are just too restrictive, what is the point of a big boot you can't get anything through the aperature?
Re: New York: 2013 Nissan Altima
Here is a car that doesnt have any badge presence, but will be well made, ride well, in a soft and comfy way, is cheap to buy, and economical from the sound of it. If you want sensible transport its very hard to argue with. Its not exciting, but its not designed to be. Its a shame they would never sell them here, but we Brits wouldnt buy them.
Re: New York: 2013 Nissan Altima
I'd have this over a Qashcow or Entrail anyday.
Come back to the UK, big saloons, all is forgiven! :(