By We are still surprised why Nissan is paying so much attention to its sedan class. Ford already left this segment. Meanwhile, the Japanese carmaker launches new generations of its models. Soon we will see the new Maxima, while the 2021 Nissan Altima will bring the first updates on the mid-size car. Well, this model will serve as the base for its bigger sibling, but the expectations from these sedans are questionable. They can’t do many things in the tough competition with much more versatile crossovers.
The Japanese manufacturer could shake things up with a hybrid engine. Visually, the 2021 Nissan Altima will be the same as now. It is not worth of update after only a couple of seasons. A few things will definitely make the sedan interesting. First of all, there is a fresh engine. The turbocharged unit brought a new dimension in driving this car. The first reactions are more than positive. Even a more powerful engine could make it even better. The Nismo model is a dream. Finally, you can have fun building your configuration since the company offers five different trim levels to start the puzzle. That is more than enough.
New Engines
The 2021 Nissan Altima will continue to use a relatively new drivetrain. It is the VC-Turbo engine with the capability to produce 250 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. A 2.0-liter unit is paired with turbochargers to boost outputs. Well, the bad thing is that powerplant requires premium gasoline or you will cut 12 ponies and 6 lb-ft. Either way, the 29 mpg combined is an excellent return for the car of this size.
The VC-Turbo powertrain replaced an old V6. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine is capable to match the performance of a larger unit, by keeping excellent gas mileage. The secret is in the adjustable compression ratio. The engine will work as a four- or six-cylinder block depending on the situation. For example, you can count on a better mpg rating on the open road, while swift acceleration will help you solve traffic jams in cities.
2021 Nissan Altima Nismo
The next upgrade for the sedan is the Nismo version. Since there is no room for other stuff (we already have new styling and engine), the 2021 Nissan Altima Nismo could really shake up things in this class. Well, it is questionable what could fit the engine room of the mid-size car, but the performance version is definitely something Altima needs. The sedan can borrow some of the units from the company’s sports segment. But, reports say the new Z-car will head into a new generation as Nissan 400Z. The displacement is not going to be a 4.0, but the number in the name suggests the total power. Altima is not going so high.
2021 Nissan Altima Hybrid
While the rumors about the Nismo model are far-fetched stories, there is some foundation in 2021 Nissan Altima Hybrid speculations. The car won’t be the first to get such configuration, that is for sure. Pathfinder and luxury Infiniti QX60 are waiting for the hybrid engine based on a V6 unit. Well, we don’t have to tell you which of these segments are a priority.
Nissan announced big changes for 2021. The carmaker focuses on the development of hybrid and electric systems. Definitely, more of these vehicles will be at dealerships next season. We know the sedan is not a priority, but it can be a part of the first update. After arriving in 2019, the new generation didn’t improve too much for 2020.
Base Engine is a 2.5
Speaking of all these possibilities for the 2021 Nissan Altima, we forgot to report its base specifications. Under the hood of the entry-level model is a 2.5-liter inline-four unit, capable to produce 190 hp and 180 lb-ft of twisting power. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) sends power to the front wheels. Buyers can opt for the all-wheel drive as well, but the cost is 6 hp. The base Altima accelerates 0-60 mph in just eight seconds. But, the main highlight is a supreme fuel economy of 39 mpg (highway). Only compact crossovers with hybrid engines can match this.
Trim Levels and Options For 2021 Nissan Altima
As said, there are five different trim levels available for the new Altima. It will stay put until the hybrid or Nismo versions appear. The highlight of the base 2021 Nissan Altima S is the availability of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Push-button and 19-inch wheels are upgrades for the SR trim. Here, you can optionally choose the turbo engine. The SV model already adds some premium features, such as ProPilot system and heated steering wheel. The SL is upgrading the offer with power-adjustable seats, Bose audio system, and navigation. But, the 2021 Nissan Altima Platinum is the most valuable version. Highlights of this one are unique 19-inch wheels, 360-degree camera, and again, the VC-Turbo engine as the optional unit.
Comments