2003 Nissan Altima Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　After last year's debut to critical acclaim, Nissan's midsize sedan receives minor changes for 2003. Two new exterior colors, Sonoma Sunset and Crystal Blue add pizzazz to the wardrobe. There's a new charcoal seat fabric, padded cloth front center armrest cover (genuine leather on leather-equipped vehicles) and bright titanium interior accent colors for all models to spruce up the interior. The 2.5 SL receives a standard automatic transmission, heated front seats, heated outside mirrors and simulated wood trim. For the 3.5 SE, there is a Sport Package, which includes a sunroof and spoiler, and a Sport Package Plus, which includes sunroof, spoiler, Bose audio system and HID headlights. The 3.5 SE Leather Package now includes a Bose audio system, sunroof and heated seats, while the Leather Sport Package adds a spoiler and xenon headlights. Finally, a new 3.5 SE Premium Leather Package sports all of the above plus throws in fake wood to boot. How can you go wrong?

　　

zzdcar says

　　Once a frumpy wallflower, the Altima is now a car to be desired.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2003 Nissan Altima 2.5 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$164/mo  for Altima 2.5

　　Altima 2.5

　　2.5 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M) - $16,749 MSRP2.5 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A) (Most Popular) - $17,249 MSRP2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 5M) - $18,599 MSRP2.5 S 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A) - $19,099 MSRP3.5 SE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 5M) - $22,649 MSRP3.5 SE 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 4A) - $23,149 MSRP2.5 SL 4dr Sedan (2.5L 4cyl 4A) - $23,099 MSRP

　　vs

　　$164/mo

　　Avg. Midsize Car

　　

2003 Altima Highlights

Trim: 2.52.5 S3.5 SE2.5 SL2.5

　　

Base MSRP	$16,749
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	23 MPG
Cost to Drive	$164/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	15.6 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles