The Nissan Altima started out as a very subdued sedan in 1993. Barely a fortnight later, it was one of the best and most reliable cars in its segment, challenging the Toyota Camry on all fronts save for sales. Nissan fixed that at the turn of the century with what was, arguably, the most desirable midsize sedan of its ear.
2023 Nissan Altima | Photo: Nissan
And then, it all went downhill. For reasons such as cost-cutting to increase margins, the Altima lost its edge, but sales continued to soar. Fast-forward a few generations and despite Nissan’s best efforts, especially with the latest iteration, the midsize sedan is not performing as well as expected.
Blame SUVs for the most part. The rumour of the Altima’s demise is no surprise. Many automakers have cut cars out of their catalogues almost completely and did so years ago. The Nissan Maxima has only a few months left in it but despite this, the nameplate still has a stronger more premium ring to it than the Altima. Which could mean that it will return…
Based on Automotive News’ Nissan product timeline, the Altima won’t be offered beyond the 2025 model year. Afterwards, it is expected that an electric sedan will, in a sense, replace it and the Maxima. Nissan’s Ambition 2030 vision, as it unfolds over the next months and years, will reveal all.
