2008 Nissan Altima Coupe Review

The Altima is a midsize car that debuted in 1993 and with the second generation, became an all-American car, designed in California. The third generation was named the "North American Car of the Year" for 2002. A brand-new Altima was launched in 2007, with a much-need interior upgrade, as well as a number of technological accompaniments. The Altima Coupe joins the lineup for 2008.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Nissan Altima Coupe comes as a surprise in a day when coupes seem to be a dying breed. Although it adds a sporty flair to its sedan counterpart, it's difficult to give an enthusiastic recommendation. There seem to be better sports coupe options out there and with the Nissan, the sedan appears to be a more practical choice.

What's New For 2008:

The coupe is all-new for 2008. It's a smaller version of the sedan, featuring either a 2.5-L 175-hp four-cylinder or a 3.5-L 270-hp V6 engine. It also features unique body panels and a sport-tuned suspension.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 Nissan Altima Coupe price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:

Rebates & Incentives:
no

Seats:

Gas Mileage:

Engine:

Horsepower:
RPM

Torque:
RPM

Transmission:

Drive:

Fuel Capacity:

Fuel Type:
diesel

Basic Warranty:

Powertrain Warranty:

Rust Warranty:

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Altima 2 stars for dependability. Problems with the 1998-2001 Altima included vehicle noise and rough idling. No recalls were issued. Problems with the last generation included engine stalling, noisy shifting, and electrical issues. It was recalled six times for issues including inefficient sensors, loose connectors, possible fire, and excessive oil consumption. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles and drivers can expect above average reliability.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Altima coupe received 4 stars in government frontal crash tests and 5 stars in side tests. The IIHS gave it "Good" ratings for frontal crashes and "Marginal" in rear tests. Anti-lock brakes and full side airbags are standard. Traction control is standard on the 3.5, but otherwise unavailable. Stability control is optional on the 3.5.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Coupe model
+ Sporty performance
+ Stylish

Cons
- Traction control not standard
- Stability control not available on four cylinder models
- Cramped back seat

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Chrysler Crossfire includes traction control and has 40 more hp, but costs several thousand more and gets about 7 fewer miles to the gallon. The Honda Civic Si Coupe includes traction control, has 20 more hp, a moonroof, and a larger trunk. The MINI Cooper S includes traction control and gets up to 6 more miles to the gallon, but costs a few hundred more.

What Others Are Saying:

"Neither pure sports car nor pure sedan, the Altima Coupe has some of the advantages and disadvantages of each. But don't they say that politics is the art of compromise?" - The Dallas Morning News

"The new 2008 Nissan Altima coupe is a worthy addition to the slowly expanding sports coupe market, which was once considered nearly dead." - Chicago Sun-Times

"We drove the SE. Plenty of life and off-the-line punch but not so much quiet. The muffled rumble was intentional, however, as the sound of performance." - The L.A. Times

Read more about the 2008 Nissan Altima Coupe at the Nissan manufacturer web site.

Published on Monday, May 19, 2008 - Email to a friend

Copyright 2006 BuyingAdvice.com, INC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.

New Cars