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"Used Nissan Altima Overview And How To Buy At The Best Price!"
The Nissan Altima debuted about 15 years ago ... and that says something. Any vehicle with this kind of staying power obviously has been doing something right.
While going head-to-head against the likes of the Honda Accord And Toyota Camry, the Altima's success is due to its combination of family-sedan-practicality with the handling and performance of a vehicle closer to those usually preferred by a driving enthusiast. What's more, with the introduction of the Nissan Altima Coupe in 2008, performance handling ability was further enhanced through its shorter wheelbase.
They've also received solid independent ratings, again often centered around performance (particularly with the V-6 engine) handling and stability, but also include accolades for ride comfort, interior space, feature levels, strong styling and above-average resale values.
Ratings by actual Altima owners have also been very good. Consumer Reviews over at Edmunds.com, for example, gives the Altima a 9 out of 10. Cars.com also gives it its "Best Bet" designation as a used car choice.
For the more serious driving enthusiasts, the Altima SE-R is particularly appealing due to its additional power, firmer suspension and 6-speed manual transmission.
For those of you who may buy a used Altima, here's some of the more recent model changes to help you narrow down the choices.
Recent year-to-year Altima changes:
2003: Following a significant redesign in 2002, the 2003 model received only minor trim and equipment changes. The Altima 2.5 SL sedan became automatic-only, imitation-wood interior trim was introduced, as were heated seats and mirrors.
In addition, titanium-color interior accents were added to other models, the Sport Package for the 3.5 SE added a sunroof and rear spoiler, and a new Sport Plus Package added a premium audio system and xenon headlights.
The SE's Leather Package also added premium sound, a sunroof and heated seats, and a new SE Leather Sport Package added xenon lights and a rear spoiler.
2004: Unchanged.
2005: The sporty Altima SE-R model was introduced. The SE-R was equipped with an athletic 260 horsepower V6 engine and would soon become very popular.
All models received an updated interior trim and navigation was added as an optional feature.
2006: No significant changes.
2007: Got a freshened styling and new standard safety features. The sedan was was made an inch shorter in wheelbase and an overall 2 inches shorter.
Front side airbags and curtain airbags became standard across all trims. Traction control also was made standard on 3.5 models and an antiskid system became an exclusive 3.5 model option. The navigation system was upgraded with a rearview camera and a wireless cell phone link became available as a new option.
Nissan introduced the Altima Hybrid, to be sold only in California and seven specific northeastern states. The Hybrid featured a four-cylinder engine with a CVT (continuously variable transmission) and an electric motor, the combination of which produced a total of 198 horsepower.
2008: Antilock brakes (ABS) became standard across all Altima models. Splash guards and a Diversity Antenna were also added as standard features while XM satellite radio became available as an option.
The Nissan Altima Coupe, smaller in dimensions and still sportier in nature, was introduced. It was offered with the same powertrain choices as the sedan.
2009: Only modest changes occurred in 2009, with base models getting several additional standard features, including power mirrors and a trip computer. And new stand-alone options were also added, including a sunroof and dual-zone climate control with rear vents.
2010: Nissan refreshed the Altima's front fascia as well as added stability control as a standard feature. Also new is an upgraded sound system and a navigation system improved with a larger touchscreen and additional real-time satellite information, Bluetooth connectivity and digital music storage. In addition, the 3.5 SE was renamed to the 3.5 SR and the manual transmission sedan was discontinued.
Overall, we feel a used Nissan Altima makes a solid choice as a second-hand car. And we can make a number of suggestions to help you save money when buying one.
How To Buy A Used Nissan Altima At The Best Price:
There are actually several different ways to buy a used Altima at the lowest price and even at wholesale, depending on which method personally fits you best.
ONE - Car Auctions:
First, you can check for used Altimas at Wholesale Local Public Auto Auctions. While this method isn't for everyone and will likely take some additional time and effort on your part, there are indeed some truly outstanding buys for those who shop these auction events. This article covers how to locate these auctions and the key issues in using them to your advantage.
TWO - Spot Wholesale Opportunities On Dealer Lots:
Another excellent method involves getting several used car dealers to compete for your business. This article details the best way to carry out this process. It's just amazing what happens to prices when true competition takes place.
Also ...
If you're interested in a "Brand New" Nissan Altima, there are some great deals to be had right now if you know how.
People swear by the proven method detailed in this article for getting the absolute best negotiated prices on new cars, especially given the current sluggish economy.
