Which 2017 Nissan Altima Is Right for You?

The Nissan Altima is a solid mid-size sedan that offers comfort, without the expense of a luxury car. It’s similar to the Maxima, but a little smaller, and not quite as posh. Still, it has a distinctly upscale vibe that makes it stand out on its own. The hardest part of buying this awesome auto is choosing between the eight different options.

Halfway through the 2017 model year, Nissan made upgrades and changes to the Altima trim levels. These 2017.5 models, as the company calls them, are now the standard offerings until the 2018 models are released.

2.5 S

The 2.5 S contains everything the 2.5 has and more, for a starting MSRP of $22,900. It’s equipped with a 179-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which gets up to 27 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. It also comes with Bluetooth capabilities, a rearview camera, Siri Eyes Free, smart auto headlights, and Nissan Intelligent Key for quick and easy access to your vehicle. The 2.5 S also has cruise control, which is essential for long drives.

New with all 2017.5 Altima models is the addition of a responsive 4-wheel independent suspension for a comfortable and controlled ride. Active Understeer Control is also standard on all 2017.5 Altimas, along with 4-wheel disc brakes featuring a standard Anti-lock Braking system with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist. Electronic Hydraulic Power-Assisted Steering is also included.

2.5 SR/3.5 SR

The 2.5 SR starts at $24,470 and feels like a somewhat sportier version of the Nissan Altima. On the exterior, the 2.5 SR upgrades the wheel size to 18-inch aluminum-alloy from 17 inches. Inside, the steering wheel is leather-wrapped, and paddle shifters are added with manual mode. For extra comfort, Nissan added an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support. The exterior comes with a sport spoiler, for that final bit of extra flair.

SR Midnight Edition

The SR Midnight Edition is a specialized Nissan Altima that looks even sleeker than any of the other models. It has a starting MSRP of $25,460 and comes with all the features of the 2.5 SR plus some cosmetic enhancements. It has exclusive Midnight Edition black 18-inch wheels. You also get LED headlights with Integrated Signature, black mirror caps, and a black spoiler. The SR Midnight Edition also includes Nissan Intelligent Key with remote engine start and stop system. Finally, on all 2017.5 SR Midnight Editions, you can get a moonroof package at no additional cost.

2.5 SV

The 2.5 SV has the same price as the SR Midnight Edition—$25,460. Why choose the 2.5 SV over the blacked-out Midnight Edition? This trim focuses on safety features over sportiness. It comes with blind spot warnings, rear cross traffic alerts, forward emergency braking, and predictive forward collision warning. The wheels do drop back down to 17 inches, but it may be worth it for the conscientious driver to have more safety features.

2.5 SL/3.5 SL

The 2.5 SL starts at $28,570 and feels much more luxurious than the previous model for one reason: leather-appointed seats. The inside has a few other upgrades that make the 2.5 SL worth the cost, including an auto-dimming inside rearview mirror with digital compass and four-way power adjustable front passenger seat. The best upgrade is the addition of a Bose Premium Audio System with nine speakers including woofers.

If you need more power, you can choose to upgrade to a 3.5 SL for $32,690. It comes with a 270-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine that can get up to 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. It comes with everything the 2.5 SL has plus a power sliding glass moonroof with one-touch open and close as well as a tilt feature.

(All facts and figures from Nissan. Photo via Facebook.)