Every now and then, a car comes along packing innovative tech, but in a familiar sheetmetal. That’s the case with the sixth-generation Nissan Altima. This humble midsize sedan had an engine option can change its compression ratio on the fly. That’s Nissan’s variable compression turbo engine, a two-liter unit that first saw duty in the Infiniti QX50 and the Altima. It promised V-6 power and incredible efficiency. In the Altima, the engine also came paired with a sport-tuned suspension on the SR trim. As a result, it became a sleeper of sorts. A sedan that drives better than you’d expect.
Nissan Altima VC-Turbo: Quick and Poised
The Nissan Altima equipped with the 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine delivered on its promise of power. It made 248 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, enough to get it to 60 mph in under six seconds in buff book testing. This also meant a great road feel. Step on the accelerator and you’ve got gobs of low-end torque. The CVT worked well and responds quickly, too. Yes, it had simulated shifts programmed in, but thankfully, it didn’t ruin the driving experience.
However, there are certain scenarios where the transmission was not on the same page as the engine. These included sudden acceleration and passing maneuvers that require full power. As a result, it felt lazy because the engine needed time to catch up with the CVT. To do that, it must drop the compression ratio, turn on the turbo, and rev higher, resulting in less-than-ideal reaction times when you request more. Putting the car in Sport mode alleviated things slightly with its quicker throttle response.
On the bright side, the Altima’s ride and handling balance impressed. It managed to keep things smooth and comfortable over broken pavement, all while bringing great composure through the corners. The SR trim’s sport-tuned suspension provided sharper turn-ins and more confident handling, making it enjoyable to drive through the twisties. Most importantly, it remained a great daily driver that adeptly smoothed out imperfections. Furthermore, it had accurate steering, so you knew exactly where the car would go when you turned the wheel. We do wish it had more heft to it, though.
Pleasantly Refined
Despite all of that complexity under the hood, the Altima VC-Turbo felt familiar. It looks like a member of the Nissan lineup with its V-motion grille and swoopy side profile. A refresh in 2023 sharpened up the design, which has aged quite well. The SR trim got fresh new wheels and a slightly more aggressive look. Meanwhile, the SL went the other way with a refined yet upscale vibe and lots of brightwork, giving you two flavors at the top end with the discontinuation of the Platinum trim.
Inside, it’s all about comfort. Four people easily fit in the Altima’s cabin thanks to its spacious rear accommodations and sizable trunk. Additionally, Nissan’s Zero Gravity front seats provide incredible comfort, perfect for long drives. It’s plenty quiet, too, with good levels of sound insulation. And material fit and finish? Pretty good, but definitely a mainstream product. Lots of soft surfaces in areas you touch often. Yes, you still have hard plastics and cheap components, but they’re in places you didn’t interact with often. However, the piano black needs to go.
In terms of tech, the Altima VC-Turbo kept it simple. An eight-inch, user-friendly touchscreen, later followed by a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen, gave you everything you needed. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrated seamlessly, and wireless with the larger display. The nine-speaker Bose premium audio system sounds good, too. However, don’t expect it to be on par with the more upscale systems found in Nissan’s larger SUVs. On the other hand, the active safety tech worked well. The ProPilot Assist semi-autonomous driver assistance system handled traffic well and operated smoothly. However, unlike in newer Nissan models, which have hands-free driving capability, the Altima requires you to keep your hands on the wheel at all times.
Nissan Altima VC-Turbo: The Underrated Choice?
There’s no denying that the current-generation Nissan Altima is a solid midsize sedan. The VC-Turbo version, specifically the SR trim, added a bit of spice to the formula, giving you something unique in the segment. Although it lives in the shadow of competitors like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, the Altima had plenty going for it.
Comfortable and easy to live with, the Altima gave you strong value. The VC-Turbo model brought a little extra spice to enhance that Big Altima Energy. Yes, it has a complex engine and a transmission that enthusiasts love to hate, no it’s not as bad as they make it seem. Unfortunately, that engine is gone for 2025, meaning your sole choice in the Altima is now the 2.5-liter four-cylinder. While not perfect, the VC-Turbo powertrain gave the Altima character. A bit of gruffness that added to its charm, if you will. And it’s that hit of personality that gives a humble car a bit more soul.
