Nissan Altima Hybrid - attribution flickr users codepo8

In 2007, Nissan joined the hybrid car manufacturer club by its Altima Hybrid model. On US News’s Affordable Midsize Cars, the Altima Hybrid ranks 18 out of 23. This ranking is based on US News’s analysis of 17 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Altima Hybrid, and their analysis of reliability and safety data.

According to USA Today says the “Altima — hybrid or not — is sportier than Camry. It feels more agile in corners, has a firmer ride, is quicker to scoot when you nail the throttle.” Nissan licensed Toyota’s hybrid technology, so the Altima Hybrid is basically a Toyota hybrid enclosed in Nissan’s stylish packaging. The Altima Hybrid is equipped with a standard 2.5-liter motor that makes 158-horsepower.

Nissan Altima Hybrid – “Altima — hybrid or not — is sportier than Camry”.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates the Nissan Altima Hybrid will get 35 miles per gallon in the city and 33 on highways. The opinions on the Altima Hybrid are divided. While Forbes says the mileage is “Quite solid” and MSN extolments that the hybrid “Can travel long distances between fill-ups.” On the other hand, Car and Driver is frustrated, noting the EPA’s numbers don’t translate to the real world: “But as they say at the EPA, ‘Your mileage may vary.’ … The hybrid’s average, which included test-track thrashing, was a dismal 23 mpg. We occasionally go the mpg gauge to nudge over 30 mpg, but not by much.”

Nissan Altima Hybrid

The Nissan Altima Hybrid is not a small car, but according to TheTruthAboutCars, the Altima Hybrid “can’t be called “spacious” either. While the Altima’s front cabin fits naturally and offers contemporary helpings of head and legroom, the rear bench’s low cushion and fair knee clearance are merely acceptable for this class. Families with lanky, cranky teenagers will appreciate the airier quarters of the hybrid Camry and Accord.”

Unfortunately, the Nissan Altima Hybrid is available only in these eight states: California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island or Vermont.

Pros:

Nice appearence; super quiet; lots of power; good handling; easy to use controls.

Cons:

Limited cargo space; limited availability (sold only in 8 states); low driver head room; rough transitiopn from electric to hybrid.

MPG: 35 City / 33 Hwy

MSRP: $25,480 – $25,480

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