Nissan Revives Altima Sedan for 2026 Model Year
Nissan has confirmed the continuation of the ‘Altima’ midsize sedan into the 2026 model year. The decision reverses earlier speculation of discontinuation amid industry shifts toward SUVs and electric vehicles. The ‘Altima’ remains one of Nissan’s core U.S. offerings in the competitive sedan segment.
The 2026 ‘Altima’ receives minor updates including refreshed styling and enhanced technology features. It continues with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 188 horsepower in front-wheel-drive models. All-wheel drive remains available, adding 182 horsepower variants.
Variable compression turbocharged 2.0-liter engine options from prior years are discontinued. Nissan focuses the lineup on the base naturally aspirated powertrain for improved reliability and efficiency. Fuel economy ratings reach up to 39 mpg highway in front-wheel-drive configurations.
Pricing starts under $30,000 for the base S trim. This positions the ‘Altima’ competitively against rivals like the Toyota ‘Camry’, Honda ‘Accord’, and Hyundai ‘Sonata’. Higher trims include SV, SR, and SL grades with added safety and infotainment systems.
Nissan ProPilot Assist driver assistance technology is standard on most trims. The system provides hands-on lane centering and adaptive cruise control. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration come standard across the range.
U.S. sedan sales have declined as consumers favor crossovers. The midsize segment still accounts for significant volume with over 1 million units annually. Nissan sold approximately 120,000 ‘Altima’ units in recent years despite market contraction.
Production continues at Nissan’s Canton, Mississippi assembly plant. The facility also builds the ‘Titan’ pickup and ‘Frontier’ midsize truck. Nissan invests in the plant for ongoing sedan manufacturing.
The ‘Altima’ enters its seventh generation with this refresh. Nissan emphasizes affordability and all-weather capability with available all-wheel drive. This feature differentiates it from many front-drive-only competitors.
Nissan plans to expand electrified offerings separately. The company focuses upcoming EV investments on models like the ‘Ariya’ crossover and future ‘Leaf’ successor. The ‘Altima’ maintains traditional gasoline powertrain for core buyers.
Dealers receive 2026 models in early 2026. Nissan aims to bolster sedan lineup presence amid portfolio diversification into trucks and EVs. The ‘Altima’ targets families and commuters seeking value-oriented transportation.
