Is Nissan Altima All Wheel Drive? AWD Availability Explained
If you’re considering a Nissan Altima and wondering about its drivetrain options you’re not alone. Many drivers want to know if this popular sedan comes with all-wheel drive (AWD) to handle various road conditions confidently. Understanding whether the Altima offers AWD can help you make a smarter choice for your daily commute or weekend adventures.
Nissan has designed the Altima with versatility in mind, but AWD availability depends on the model and trim you choose. Knowing the specifics about the Altima’s drivetrain options ensures you get the performance and traction you need. Let’s dive into what the Nissan Altima offers when it comes to all-wheel drive and how it compares to other sedans in its class.
Overview of Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima combines modern design with advanced technology to deliver a comfortable and capable midsize sedan. Understanding its features and trim options helps you match the vehicle to your driving needs and preferences.
Key Features and Specifications
You get a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine standard, producing 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. A turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine option increases output to 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque for improved acceleration. Fuel efficiency ratings reach up to 28 mpg city and 39 mpg highway with the base engine, according to EPA estimates. The Altima includes advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert on most trims. Tech highlights feature an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration, providing connectivity and convenience.
Trim Levels and Variants
You find the Altima in five main trim levels: S, SV, SR, SL, and Platinum. The S and SV trims offer front-wheel drive only, targeting budget-conscious buyers seeking efficiency. The SR trim adds sportier styling and suspension enhancements while maintaining front-wheel drive availability. The SL and Platinum trims include more upscale features, enhanced safety systems, and optional all-wheel drive (AWD). AWD availability begins with the SV trim in models equipped with the turbocharged engine option, providing better traction and stability in various driving conditions. You can choose AWD to improve handling on wet or slippery roads while retaining smooth performance.
Understanding All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
All-wheel drive (AWD) improves your vehicle’s traction by sending power to all four wheels. It adapts to changing road conditions, providing stability and control.
What Is AWD?
AWD distributes engine power to both front and rear wheels automatically. It engages when sensors detect wheel slippage, enhancing grip on slippery or uneven surfaces. Unlike four-wheel drive (4WD), AWD operates continuously or on demand without driver intervention, making it suitable for everyday driving.
Benefits of AWD in Sedans
AWD in sedans boosts traction on wet, snowy, or icy roads, reducing chances of losing control. It enhances acceleration by distributing power evenly, especially in turbocharged models like the Altima. AWD also improves handling and cornering stability, giving you confidence in diverse driving conditions without compromising fuel efficiency significantly.
Is Nissan Altima All Wheel Drive?
Nissan Altima offers all-wheel drive (AWD) on select trims, providing added traction and control. Knowing which models include AWD helps you choose a version that fits your driving needs.
Availability of AWD in Nissan Altima Models
You find AWD available starting with the SV trim when paired with the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. The SL and Platinum trims also offer AWD as an option. The S and base SV trims restrict you to front-wheel drive (FWD) only. This setup means AWD is limited to higher trims or specific engine configurations that prioritize performance and stability. All-wheel drive in the Altima enhances traction on slippery or uneven roads, useful in rain, snow, and light off-road conditions.
| Trim Level | Engine Option | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| S | 2.5L 4-cylinder | FWD only |
| SV | 2.5L 4-cylinder | FWD only |
| SV | Turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder | AWD available |
| SR | Turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder | AWD available |
| SL | Turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder | AWD available |
| Platinum | Turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder | AWD available |
How AWD in Altima Compares to Competitors
You get a sophisticated AWD system in the Altima that continuously adjusts power distribution between front and rear wheels. Compared to competitors like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Mazda6, the Altima’s system responds quickly to road conditions without driver input. This capability improves stability during acceleration and cornering. While some rivals reserve AWD for limited trims or larger engines, the Altima offers AWD across multiple trim levels with its turbocharged powertrain. Its fuel economy remains competitive despite the added AWD hardware, making the Altima a balanced choice if you want enhanced all-weather capability in a midsize sedan.
Performance and Handling with AWD
The Nissan Altima’s AWD system enhances performance and handling, providing you with improved traction and stability across various driving conditions.
Driving Experience in Various Conditions
The AWD system distributes power automatically to all four wheels, giving you better control on wet, snowy, or icy roads. You experience enhanced cornering stability and acceleration, especially when the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine powers the SV, SL, and Platinum trims. This system adapts to changing road surfaces without any driver input, ensuring confident handling during rain or light off-road conditions.
Fuel Efficiency Considerations
The AWD-equipped Altima maintains competitive fuel economy, with EPA ratings close to the front-wheel-drive models. While AWD typically adds some weight and mechanical complexity, the Altima balances traction benefits without significantly reducing fuel efficiency. You gain all-weather capability while still achieving approximately 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, according to EPA estimates for the turbocharged AWD variants.
Pricing and Value of AWD Altima Models
You find AWD Altima models starting with the SV trim equipped with the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. Prices typically range from $27,000 to $35,000 depending on trim level and options. The SL and Platinum trims, which also offer AWD, fall in the higher end of this spectrum due to their enhanced features and luxury touches.
You gain notable value from AWD in these trims, especially if you drive in regions with frequent rain, snow, or icy conditions. AWD enhances traction and stability without a significant fuel economy sacrifice, maintaining roughly 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway compared to front-wheel-drive variants.
You benefit from the AWD system’s quick response to road conditions, which provides improved acceleration and cornering stability. Including features like advanced driver-assistance systems and premium interiors in SL and Platinum trims, AWD Altima models deliver a comprehensive package for safety, performance, and comfort.
| Trim Level | Starting Price (USD) | Engine | Drivetrain | Estimated Fuel Economy (mpg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SV (Turbo) | $27,000 | 2.0L Turbo 4-cyl | AWD | 25 City / 34 Hwy |
| SL | $32,000 | 2.0L Turbo 4-cyl | AWD | 25 City / 34 Hwy |
| Platinum | $35,000 | 2.0L Turbo 4-cyl | AWD | 25 City / 34 Hwy |
You assess AWD Altima models for their balanced combination of price, advanced features, and year-round capability, which strengthens their value proposition compared to competing midsize sedans.
Conclusion
Choosing a Nissan Altima with all-wheel drive means you’re investing in better traction and stability, especially if you face challenging weather or road conditions. Knowing which trims offer AWD helps you pick the right model that fits your driving needs without compromising on performance or fuel efficiency. With its blend of advanced features and reliable AWD capability, the Altima stands out as a smart choice for those wanting confidence behind the wheel year-round.