Nissan’s normally aspirated 2.5L four is the sole engine offered in the new Altima. Except when accelerating very slowly or while cruising, the 2.5L sounds coarse. It is especially unrefined when moving from a stop in fast-moving suburban traffic situations when quick acceleration is required. The throttle requires a determined push to engage any meaningful acceleration and makes the car feel lethargic most of the time. The Nissan CVT is programmed to mimic the operating style of a conventional hydraulic automatic transmission and generally works very well.

Steering is engaged by a thick-rimmed, small diameter wheel that is a pleasure to hold. While the steering is nicely weighted, accurate and holds its line well, if feels detached, a Nissan trait.

The Altima’s ride-handling compromise is pretty well sorted for a family touring car but some APA drivers thought the car felt loose and they detected some creaks from the suspension. Unlike some cars, which reveal their excellence as you become more familiar with them, the Altima makes a good first impression but then starts unveiling its deficiencies the more you drive it.

Visibility to the front and out the front side windows is very good but the triangular rise of the rear door belt line and the high rear deck limit the view for reversing and lane changes.

The minimum possible temperature for the climate system is 18 centigrade, too warm for some drivers in really hot weather.

The Bose-branded audio system in the Platinum range-topper delivers unimpressive sounds.

After a bizarre styling mis-step with the previous Altima, Nissan joined the contemporary mainstream with the latest iteration of the nameplate.

The interior is clean and modern and features class competitive space but cabin materials are not up to the appearance of most competitors.

The sole powertrain offered in Canada is a 2.5L four sending power to all wheels via a CVT

All-wheel drive, once a significant plus point for the Altima, is less of a plus now as it is now more common than it once was. The base S trim with a power driver’s seat, a forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking and blind spot, rear cross traffic and lane departure warnings, is well equipped. Moving up to the SR model adds alloy wheels, a sunroof, the ProPilot limited self-driving suite and active cruise control. The SR Premium includes navigation, wireless iOS-Android cellphone hookup, Bose-branded audio and leather seating. The Platinum trim is equipped with a 360 degree camera system.

Insufficient sales. Not rated. Below average reliability is likely. CVT failures after the powertrain warranty ends are common.