UAE car review: The Nissan Altima in its sixth generation

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We review the Nissan Altima in the UAE
The car's sixth edition

The Nissan Altima is a key piece of scenery in the UAE's motoring landscape and 2019's version.

By David Light

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Published: Tue 13 Aug 2019, 2:26 PM

Last updated: Fri 16 Aug 2019, 11:46 AM

THIS IS THE model's sixth generation. Can you believe it? Actually we can. Like a good sitcom or series - we're looking at you Orange Is The New Black - if it ain't broke, why not continue producing? The Nissan Altima is a key piece of scenery in the UAE's motoring landscape and 2019's version is looking to add to that picture in what is becoming an increasingly competitive saloon segment year on year. What with Korean and Chinese brands becoming bigger players, let's take a look and see if one of our most faithful is a fine piece of art in the broad strokes family market.
So, what have we got here then?
Exactly what you'd expect from a five-door saloon except better looking than its predecessors and possessing a nicer feel. The new Altima's design was inspired by the Nissan Vmotion 2.0 concept car, which debuted at the 2017 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. It is lower, longer and wider than the previous generation with the option of 19-inch wheels and tyres. As you can tell from the pictures the result is a commanding presence, which can't be said about every member in its division. Too often saloons look like a design afterthought. The new Altima's front grille and angular tail give it a little something different, which was pleasing.
And what about inside?
As we mentioned, it is decent to the touch, but wouldn't call it completely revolutionary. The cockpit is pleasant, although we could have done without the faux carbon fibre and wood touches. What's wrong with sticking with one material throughout? The tech is of a high standard, but as with every Nissan the safety features and most importantly the cameras are where the car scores five stars. The bird's-eye parking view, displayed on an eight-inch colour display never gets old nor decreases in utility. The radar-based Blind Spot Warning is good and the seats are also very comfy.
Under the bonnet?
Two new engines have been introduced for this incarnation. Standard on all grade levels is a new 2.5-litre DOHC inline four-cylinder direct injection engine, which produces 188hp (versus the previous 2.5-liter's 179hp). And currently available for reservation is a 2.0-litre VC-Turbo, which gives you up to 248hp and replaces the former Altima's 3.5-liter V6. We drove the first type mentioned and it delivered everything you'd desire from a car of this size. Acceleration was smooth and, at points, exhilarating - you can certainly throw it around a bit. The motor doesn't make much of a noise of which to speak, but we could see this engine going for many hundreds of thousands of kilometres without giving you any worries. That's the beauty of a Nissan.
Any other business?
The Altima is as spacious as you'd definitely demand it be and we want to say 'noble' on the road. Its presence is always welcome, never ostentatious yet neither is it anonymous. We liked it.
Specs
Engine: 2.5-litre
Power: 188hp
Price: From Dhs84,000
david@khaleejtimes.com 

UAE review of the Nissan Altima front view
The car from the front
A view from the driver's seat of the 2019 Nissan Altima
How would you feel driving?

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