Nissan Altima is available in four trim levels: 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SL, and 3.5 SE. Two engines are available.
Base, S, and SL models are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 16 valves and dual overhead camshafts. It produces 175 horsepower at 6000 rpm, and 180 pounds-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. A compact balance system and silent-chain cam drive ensure smooth running for such a big four. All four-cylinder Altimas meet ultra-low emissions (ULEV) standards.
The 3.5 SE features a powerful 3.5-liter V6, essentially the same unit used in the Nissan Maxima. This engine also breathes through four valves per cylinder to produce 245 horsepower at 5800 rpm, and 246 pounds-feet of torque at 4400 rpm.
The base 2.5 model ($16,349) comes standard with power windows, a green-tinted solar glass windshield, power steering, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, fold down center armrests in front and rear, a 60/40 split folding rear seat and an in-glass antenna. Air conditioning is not part of the base package, however, and other options are limited.
2.5 S ($17,999) adds air conditioning, power mirrors, remote keyless entry with remote trunk lock, an eight-way adjustable driver's seat, cruise control, a six-speaker audio system, seatback pockets, and a lock for the split rear seat.
2.5 SL ($22,699) adds 16-inch alloy wheels, leather trim, a power driver's seat, trip computer, security system, Bose premium sound system and other convenience features. For 2003, a four-speed automatic transmission, heated front seats, heated outside mirrors and simulated wood trim have been added to the list.
3.5 SE ($23,149) comes with the V6, 17-inch alloy wheels, 215/55R17 tires, a performance-tuned suspension, fog lights, and dual chrome exhaust tips. But the Bose stereo is optional ($899). The Leather Package ($1399) now includes the Bose audio system, plus a power glass sunroof, heated front seats and heated mirrors, and leather upholstery. A new Sport Package adds a power glass sunroof and spoiler; the Sport Package Plus includes the sunroof and spoiler plus the Bose premium audio system and xenon headlights. A new Leather Sport Package combines the Leather Package, with the spoiler and xenon headlights. The new Premium Leather Package adds simulated wood trim.
Automatic transmissions are optional and add $800 to a base model or 3.5 SE, but $850 to a 2.5 S. V6 Altimas with the automatic transmission can be ordered with a traction control system ($299), which uses a combination of throttle, fuel cutoff and shift schedule to aid traction in off-the-line starts and slippery situations. Other options include the sunroof ($849) and a package consisting of side-impact air bags, front and rear head-curtain air bags, and ABS ($799).