AutoWeek Wrecks Their Altima, Loves it Anyway!

[AZhitman]

Compared with some of the mainstream options in the mass midsize-sedan market, there is little wonder why the AutoWeek staff has given the Nissan Altima a warm reception. One editor calls it "the perfect antidote to those sick to death of Camrys and Accords." Another said, "It's certainly interesting to look at and drive."

At this excitement's center is a powerful 270-hp V6 and a six-speed manual transmission--not a common combo in the mainstream midsize-sedan market. "This car is quick, so quick, in fact, the throttle feels a little jumpy at times, as if it's a caged animal," said one driver.

The staff praised the Nissan's responsive handling but did find fault in its steering character. "The grip is good, and the turn-in feels immediate, but I thought the steering was too artificial," said one editor, and another echoed his sentiments: "My only disappointment is how lightly weighted the steering is and how sensitive it is to inputs." We are relieved to find torque steer better controlled than in previous-generation models, though.

Our optioned-out vehicle's bottom line gave some around the office sticker shock. "Nice car, nice price-without every conceivable option known to man, that is. At $32,000, I'd pass. But since the tech package checks in at $6,400, it would be easy to keep the price down," said one.

Those things that make up the pricey technology package are, however, enjoyed. "I like a couple of the amenities I can see (and hear) right off the bat, namely the Bose system. It's got incredible sound," says a staffer.

We experienced no reliability problems during the quarter except for a squeaky clutch pedal that would surface sporadically. Unfortunately, one large problem did strike in an airport parking lot, when a staff member, returning from a trip, was sideswiped by a shuttle bus as he backed out of his parking space. Fortunately, our guy was unharmed, but the Altima suffered heavy damage to its right side, with only a shade more than 2000 miles on the odo.



A laundry list of work is in progress, including pulling and squaring the frame and repairs to some of the front suspension parts, putting the Altima out of commission for the last 31 days of the quarter. The good news is that it is nearing completion and should be with us again before long. We only hope that it will be back to its old self, and we will now make a more concentrated effort of avoiding big red shuttle buses.