2015 Nissan Altima

As the cornerstone of Nissan's dynamic product lineup, Nissan Altima embodies the philosophy of "Innovation that excites" with thoughtful technology solutions that make life easier and a premium experience that is unique in its segment. Altima is not only Nissan's best-selling vehicle but also one of the top-selling cars in the United States – thanks to its distinctive exterior and interior design, rewarding driving experience and innovative, driver-focused technology.

Altima also offers efficient 38 miles-per-gallon fuel economy (2.5-liter engine) and available next-generation Safety Shield Technologies. Altima is again available in a range of seven high-value available models that meet a range of customer needs and budgets.

For the 2015 model year, Altima 3.5 SV and 3.5 SL grades add NissanConnect℠ with Navigation and Mobile Apps, Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Moving Object Detection (MOD) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) as standard equipment.

All three 3.5-liter V6 Altimas also feature a 1-mpg increase for highway and combined fuel economy ratings due to reduced internal friction (including DLC piston rings and sodium-filled valves), improved air intake resistance, the addition of exhaust variable camshaft timing (VTC), enhanced D-Step Shift logic and reduced internal friction for the standard Xtronic transmission. Fuel economy is now rated at 22 mpg city, 32 mpg highway and 26 mpg combined.

Other enhancements for 2015 include the addition of 8-way power driver's seat and 2-way power lumbar support for 2.5 SV and 3.5 SV models, 4-way power front passenger seat for SL models, Beige interior-equipped models receive black carpeting and lower seat side trim, fog lights are now standard on the 2.5 SV trim level and Intelligent Climate Control is added to models equipped with Remote Engine Start System (SV, SL).

A Premium Presence

Completely redesigned inside and out just two years ago, its premium style and "class above" appeal continues in 2015 with its wide, aggressive stance and dramatic front end styling. Its wide front and rear track and deeply sculpted fenders – which utilize deep-draw stamping techniques that allow for complex surfacing – combine with a crisp grille design, seamless bumper and projector-type headlights to create a bold, sophisticated appearance.

Altima headlights feature a two-stage automatic-on function. In lower light situations during the day, the headlights illuminate automatically – but the gauges remain in daylight mode. In late evening/night conditions, the headlights remain illuminated and the gauges revert to nighttime lighting. Fog lights are standard on SV and SL trim levels.

In addition, many states now require the headlights to be illuminated in rainy conditions. In the Altima, after four passes of the windshield wipers, the headlights turn on automatically. If the vehicle is turned off with the wipers in motion, instead of stopping mid-motion, they automatically complete a full cycle – so they don't get frozen to the windshield in icy or snowy conditions.

The Altima "premium proportions" continue with the angled A-pillar, high waistline, long sloping rear roofline and raised, deep-stamped trunk that combine to create a more fluid silhouette. The body design is capped by large taillights that flow from the rear into the bodysides. LED taillights are standard on SL models. Attention to aerodynamic fine-tuning gives the Altima a low coefficient of drag of 0.29.

The 2015 Altima is available in a palette of eight rich exterior colors: Java Metallic, Brilliant Silver, Saharan Stone, Gun Metallic, Super Black, Cayenne Red, Pearl White and Storm Blue.

The interior defies mid-size sedan convention, rivaling upscale luxury sedans in ambience and sophistication. Like the exterior, there is a premium look and feel – from the driver's side cockpit to the front passenger and rear seating areas – with extensive use of upscale, soft touch materials and craftsman-like attention to detail.

The advanced Zero Gravity front seats, which are standard on all 2015 Altima trim levels, are designed to help reduce the fatigue experienced during long commutes or extended road trips. The seats were developed using seating and posture research from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). According to NASA, the least fatiguing seats are those that come closest to a "neutral posture" – a relaxed position that the human body takes in a weightless environment. The Zero Gravity seats utilize an articulated seat shape with continuous support from the pelvis to the chest and distribution of localized deformation characteristics.

Altima offers standard cloth seating with a 6-way adjustable driver's seat and a 4-way adjustable front passenger seat, 60/40 split folding rear bench seat with armrest, and black interior trim with chrome finish accents. Also available, depending on model, are leather-appointed seats and trim, 6-way or 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support and a 4-way power front passenger seat. Seat surface perforations provide increased ventilation, breathability and comfort. Heated front seats are also available, along with metallic texture (Charcoal interior) or wood tone (Beige interior) interior trim finishers.

The 2015 Altima also offers premium quietness, the result of efforts to reduce cabin noise coming from the powertrain, climate system and the body versus the previous generation Altima design. Noise absorption materials with a 30 percent increase in absorption capability (versus previous Altima) are used throughout the cabin, including areas such as the roof trim, instrument panel and floor mats.

Available audio systems include an AM/FM/CD design with RDS, MP3, aux-in and six speakers, along with an available Bose® Premium Audio System with nine speakers (including woofers), designed in conjunction with Bose® engineers during vehicle development to deliver rich sound and acoustics.

SiriusXM™ Satellite Radio (SiriusXM™ subscription required, sold separately) is standard on Altima 2.5 SV, 2.5 SL, 3.5 S, 3.5 SV, 3.5 SL and optional on 2.5 S.

With the available Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant (part of NissanConnect℠), drivers can manage incoming text messages via voice control without taking their hands from the wheel or eyes off the road. Drivers are alerted to an incoming text and, after initiating the system, can hear the text read out loud and respond via voice recognition, or via the steering wheel switches using pre-set answers such as "driving, can't text," "on my way," "running late," "okay" or a custom message.

The Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display comes standard on every model and is customizable, easy-to-use and integrates key information right in front of the driver. Located in the center of the instrument display between the tachometer and speedometer, it features a 4.0-inch color display, more than 400 percent larger than the previous generation Altima's vehicle information display and utilizing more natural 3D-effect graphics.

The system is customizable and adjustable using the steering wheel controls, so drivers can view the information that is most important to them, including:

·         Audio system display

·         Instant MPG

·         Trip computer

·         Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with individual tire pressure readouts (individual readouts not available on 2.5 grade)

·         Navigation system (if equipped), with destination turn-by-turn information and compass, and the ability to match the on-screen vehicle image with the actual car color

·         On vehicles equipped with NissanConnect℠ with Navigation, the display shows navigation destination turn-by-turn information

An Enhanced Connection and Safety Shield Technologies

The NissanConnect℠ with Mobile Apps system allows Altima owners to stay connected to their digital lives, even when in the vehicle. Apps include Online Search powered by Google™ (navigation equipped vehicles only), Pandora® (Android only – iOS coming soon), Facebook and iHeart Radio for Auto. Part of the system's innovative design is the flexibility to introduce new apps throughout the ownership experience, including a range of projected upcoming music, social networking, entertainment and travel apps.

The NissanConnect℠ Mobile Apps apps experience isn't limited to the single owner of the vehicle. Other drivers and passengers can set up their own app suite to tailor their experience when they are in the vehicle. All app profiles and settings are personalized and unique to each driver's phone, so users don't have to worry about sharing personal account information. In addition, the NissanConnect℠ with Navigation system's capabilities include SiriusXM Travel Link® (fuel prices, movie times, stock updates, weather) and revised button labels.

The NissanConnect℠ with Navigation and Mobile Apps system is also packed with a rich range of features and is incredibly easy to use with its 7.0-inch touch-screen, 3D-effect map views, Voice Recognition, and turn-by-turn navigation integrated into the Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display. Other navigation features include speed limit display, eco driving maps, curve warning and split-screen display. In addition to its many other functions, the Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display can be linked to three available safety features – Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Moving Object Detection (MOD) – typically offered only on more upscale vehicles.

The three systems are part of the optional Technology Package (standard on 3.5 SV and 3.5 SL), which also includes the NissanConnect℠ with Navigation and Mobile Apps with 7.0-inch color touch-screen. Thanks to the use of the systems' advanced, next-generation rearview camera, the BSW, LDW and MOD are integrated, intuitive and affordable.

The Blind Spot Warning System uses the rearview camera to scan the vehicle's blind spot areas and alerts the driver if a vehicle is detected. The driver is then alerted with audible and visual indicators. In the same way, the Lane Departure Warning system uses the rearview camera to monitor lane markings and alerts the driver if the vehicle is beginning to leave the driving lane. Moving Object Detection helps detect large moving objects, such as other vehicles, when the rearview camera is engaged when backing up and warns the driver with visual and audible cues.

Dynamic Driving Performance

Nissan Altima is offered with a choice of two proven powerplants – the 2.5-liter DOHC 4-cylinder and 3.5-liter DOHC V6.

The 2.5-liter QR25 engine includes variable valve timing on both exhaust and intake camshafts, helping keep the torque curve flat. Featuring cutting-edge technology such as a thermoplastic resin intake manifold, this engine simultaneously produces more power despite being lighter than the previous engine design. Horsepower is rated at 182 hp (179 CAL*), with torque rated at 180 lb-ft (177 CAL*). The advanced, award-winning VQ35DE 3.5-liter V6 is rated at 270 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are matched with a standard Xtronic transmission.

Fuel economy for the Altima 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine is 27 mpg city, 38 mpg highway and 31 mpg combined. Fuel economy for the 3.5-liter V6 Altima is rated at 22 mpg city, 32 mpg highway and 26 mpg combined – increases of one mpg for highway and combined ratings for the 3.5-liter V6 (versus 2014 models). Also contributing to the excellent fuel efficiency are tires with reduced rolling resistance and regenerative alternator that only operates when the vehicle is coasting.

The 2015 Altima offers a refined multi-link rear suspension benchmarked to leading European sports sedans. The design features high lateral suspension stiffness, improved toe angle control (with the addition of connect bushings) and improved camber angle control under load (for increased tire contact with the road when cornering) versus the previous generation Altima. The suspension also utilizes a shock absorber design by ZF SACHS, similar to that used on high-end luxury sedans, to deliver stellar body control and response, while simultaneously delivering a plush, comfortable ride. Altima's front suspension uses an independent front strut design. Stabilizer bars are utilized front and rear.

Altima also features an Active Understeer Control system, which utilizes intelligent control logic and high-response brake actuators to lightly brake the inside front wheels during cornering (as required) to increase yaw-moment. Using the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)/Traction Control System (TCS) as its base, Active Understeer Control is almost undetectable when it operates. It is designed primarily for everyday operation rather than emergency evasive maneuvers.

Responsive steering is provided by an Electronic Hydraulic Power-Assisted Steering (EHPS) system that preserves the feel of hydraulic steering rack while offering the efficiencies of an electric power steering set-up.

The 4-wheel power-assisted disc brake system on the 2015 Altima was engineered utilizing human ergonomic studies to optimize pedal travel and force, to help provide a premium blend of immediate response and confident braking. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) are standard.

A selection of wheels and tires are offered on 2015 Altima 2.5-liter models, including 16-inch steel wheels with full covers and 215/60R16 all-season tires, available 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels (Sport Value Package) or 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 215/55R17 V-rated all-season tires (SV, SL grades). Standard on 3.5-liter V6-equipped models are 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 235/45R18 V-rated all-season tires.

The 2015 Altima features Nissan's Easy Fill Tire Alert function for the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). When filling the tires with air, the hazard lamps flash to let the operator know the system is working. When the correct pressure is reached, a beep of the horn provides notification. Unlike many competitive vehicles, Altima includes an individual tire pressure monitoring and readout system that provides the tire pressure at each individual location and automatically adjusts positions when the tires are rotated during service. The information is integrated into the Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display.

Available from the SV grade or as part of the Sports Value Package (2.5 S) is a factory-installed Remote Engine Start System, which allows the owner to heat or cool the vehicle from the comfort of the home. The Altima must be locked for the remote start to operate (up to 10 minutes). Intelligent Climate Control is added in 2015 to the Remote Engine Start System (except Sport Value Package), which automatically sets HVAC temperatures to ideal heating/defrost or cooling settings (depending on ambient temperatures). When the driver enters the vehicle, the HVAC reverts to the previous customer settings.

The 2015 Altima also offers a long list of standard safety features, including Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor, front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags, and roof-mounted curtain supplemental side-impact air bags for front-and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.

Seven Well-Equipped Models

The 2015 Nissan Altima is offered in four 2.5-liter engine equipped models, 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SV and 2.5 SL, along with three 3.5-liter V6 equipped models, 3.5 S, 3.5 SV and 3.5 SL.

The Altima 2.5 S model includes steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise control, Nissan Intelligent Key®, auto on/off headlights, in-cabin microfilter, Tire Pressure Monitoring System with individual tire pressure readouts, and much more. Altima 3.5 S adds 18-inch wheels and tires, plus paddle shifters with manual mode, 5.0-inch color audio display, RearView Monitor, USB connection port, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), NissanConnect℠ with Mobile Apps, 6-way power driver's seat and more.

Altima 2.5 SV models include Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control, fog lights Remote Engine Start System with Intelligent Climate Control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, RearView Monitor, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), 5.0-inch color audio display, USB port with iPod® connectivity, Hands-Free Messaging Assistant, NissanConnect℠ with Mobile Apps, 8-way power driver's seat with 2-way power lumbar support and more.

Altima 3.5 SV also adds 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, moonroof, rear air conditioning vents, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver, NissanConnect℠ with Navigation and Mobile Apps, Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Moving Object Detection (MOD), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and more.

Altima SL models include leather-appointed seating, Bose® Premium Audio System with nine speakers (including woofers), heated front seats and steering wheel, heated outside mirrors, LED taillights, LED outside mirror turn signals, premium interior trim, auto dimming rearview mirror, and HomeLink® Universal Transceiver and more.

Six options packages are available: a Convenience Package (2.5 SV), Moonroof Package (2.5 SL), Technology Package (2.5 SV, 2.5 SL), Display Audio Package (2.5 S), Sport Value Package (2.5 S) and Power Driver's Seat (2.5S).

The 2015 Altima is assembled in Smyrna, Tenn. and Canton, Miss., with engines assembled in Decherd, Tenn.

Source:Nissan Press