No surprise that the Altima is highest ranking midsize in term of initial quality.
So says J.D. Powers and Associates.
The 2013 models just rolled into the lot of Tracy Nissan, 3195 N. Naglee Road. The sedans were aggressively redesigned and styled for better aerodynamics.
“There’s more curves compared to last year’s model,” said fleet manager / internet sales Francisco Mendoza.
The Altima is powered by a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that wears the Pure Drive badge, thus, meeting and exceeding Federal fuel economy standards for 2016, according to Nissan.
“Try cleaner running (engine) with better gas mileage,” added Mendoza.
He compares the fuel efficiency rating of the estimated 27 miles per gallon, city, and 38 mpg, highway to that of the 2012 hybrids.
The newest version of the continuously variable transmission also contributes to the improved mileage along with better acceleration and a smoother performance.
The active under steer control feature also makes for smoother and comfortable rides not to mention sharper handling in all conditions.
Mendoza pointed out some of the standard features, including the Bluetooth hands-free phone system that can be activated on the steering-wheel-mounted controls. From there, the driver can also control the volume or seek tunes on the AM/FM/CD audio system with auxiliary inputs for iPods and MP3 players.
“The front seat has the comfort of a therapeutic bed support,” he said.
For cargo versatility, this midsize comes with a 60/40 split fold-down rear seats that fold completely flat to make room for skis, golf clubs and other loads.
As for safety features, the Altima comes equipped with the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System featuring dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and an occupant-classification sensor. The Traction Control System helps monitor steering and braking action while the anti-lock braking system helps maintain control by working to prevent wheel lockup in emergency situations.
“The car is a must-drive,” said Mendoza, who is inviting folks to test drive the 2013 Altima at the Tracy dealership.
For more information, call Tracy Nissan at 209-820-6000 or log on to www.choosenissan.com.
