In terms of exterior design, the 2026 Altima adopts Nissan’s latest “Timeless Edge” design language. The familiar V-Motion grille remains, but it’s now upgraded with active air shutters that automatically open or close depending on the engine’s operating conditions—reducing drag at high speeds, enhancing cooling during spirited driving, and improving fuel efficiency. Above the grille runs a full-width LED light strip that connects seamlessly with the matrix laser headlights, creating a sharp light signature at night. Compared with the current model, the front end looks far less conservative. The front bumper has been completely redesigned with larger air intakes and aerodynamic “air blade” elements, while chrome trim along the bottom edge maintains a touch of refinement appropriate for a family sedan.
From the side, the new fastback profile gives the body stronger tension. The C-pillar slopes more aggressively than before, and the roofline descends more rapidly from the B-pillar, giving it a four-door coupe silhouette. For the first time, the Altima features hidden door handles, paired with newly designed 19-inch low-drag wheels—available in two-tone machined finishes—which contribute to improved aerodynamics. Two new nano-metallic paint options, “Starry Purple” and “Quantum Gray,” create a gradient effect under different lighting, and a contrasting floating roof caters to younger buyers seeking individuality. The car’s dimensions are 4920 mm in length, 1850 mm in width, and 1447 mm in height, with a 2825 mm wheelbase—14 mm longer than the current model, while other dimensions remain unchanged.
At the rear, the Altima sports darkened 3D full-width taillights embedded with multiple LED elements that produce a flowing animation when unlocking the car, offering excellent nighttime recognition. The most striking detail is the dual twin exhaust system exclusive to the gasoline version, combined with a diffuser-style lower bumper for a performance-oriented look—something rarely seen among competitors like the Camry and Accord. The hybrid variant, on the other hand, uses hidden exhaust outlets for a cleaner rear design. A small spoiler integrated into the trunk lid complements the overall aerodynamic shape and adds a sporty touch.
Inside, the cabin features a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster and a 14.1-inch floating center screen forming an “Ultra Vision Interactive System.” Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chip and Nissan Connect 3.0 software, it supports 5G connectivity and AR-HUD navigation, delivering smoother and more responsive operation than before. Physical buttons on the center console have been reduced, with most functions controllable via touch, voice, or gesture. The voice assistant can even handle complex commands like “find nearby charging stations.” Materials have been upgraded too—semi-aniline leather seats, natural maple trim, and eco-friendly suede headliners create a premium atmosphere. Standard across all trims are double-layer acoustic glass and ANC active noise cancellation, giving noise insulation comparable to luxury sedans in the ¥300,000 class.
Space remains one of Nissan’s strengths, and comfort has been further refined. The new Zero Gravity seats are inspired by NASA’s space-capsule posture, adding three more support points from hip to lumbar compared with the previous generation. The driver’s seat offers 12-way power adjustment including 4-way lumbar support, while higher trims add ventilation, heating, and even massage. A 1.8-meter-tall passenger has about a fist and two fingers of headroom up front, and over two fists of legroom in the rear. The floor hump in the back is low, so even five adults can sit comfortably without feeling cramped.
As for power, judging from the “380 VC-TURBO” badge on the new model’s rear, the 2.0T variable-compression turbo engine remains. Based on current specifications, it produces 179 kW of maximum power and 371 N·m of torque, paired with a CVT transmission. The new Altima is also expected to continue offering a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine option.
