Passing performance is the Altima's strong suit. 50-70 takes a quick 5.9 seconds and going uphill only slows that quick time to 9.6 seconds. The engine loves to rev and pulls strongly and smoothly right up to its 6,100 rpm redline. In that important 20-70 mph range the Altima will not disappoint its driver. Even though this is a front driver, I found no torque steer present in hard acceleration or coming strong out of corners.
More good news is the improvement in economy.
With its 16-gallon fuel tank cruising ranges will approach 500 miles. Changes have also taken place in the chassis department. Although its fully independent suspension design remains essentially unchanged, the track has been widened 1.6 inches front and rear. This allows for more interior space and greater stability. Handling is benign, confident and smooth.