The Nissan Altima, entering its second production year in 2020, solidified its position as a frontrunner in the mid-size sedan category. Building upon its recent redesign, the Nissan Altima 2020 continued to impress with its available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD), the innovative ProPILOT Assist system, and the comprehensive Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite of technologies. Furthermore, drivers could choose between two advanced engines and enjoy a vehicle boasting both expressive exterior styling and a refined interior.
The debut year of this generation Altima was marked by significant recognition. The 2019 Altima SR, equipped with the groundbreaking 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine, earned a coveted spot on Automobile magazine’s “All-Stars” list. Adding to its accolades, Autotrader also named the Altima as one of their “12 Best New Cars for 2019,” highlighting its broad appeal and strong value proposition.
For the 2020 Nissan Altima, enhancements included making Nissan Safety Shield 360 standard on the sporty SR trim. Crucially, the Driver Assist Package became available for the base Altima S grade, effectively bringing Safety Shield 360 technology to the entire 2020 Nissan Altima lineup. Further refinements for the new model year consisted of a mirror memory function added to the luxurious Platinum grade and the introduction of Piano Black interior finishers for the SV, SL, and Platinum trims, enhancing the cabin’s premium feel.
Nissan Intelligent Mobility: ProPILOT Assist Takes Center Stage
When it comes to enhancing the driving experience, the 2020 Nissan Altima distinguishes itself with Nissan’s sophisticated ProPILOT Assist system. A standout feature in its class, ProPILOT Assist is designed to reduce driver fatigue and workload in certain driving scenarios, particularly during single-lane highway driving. This advanced technology intelligently manages acceleration, steering, and braking inputs, contributing to a smoother and more confident driving experience.
ProPILOT Assist leverages a suite of advanced sensors, including a forward-facing camera, radar, and an electronic control module. These components work in concert to help the Nissan Altima 2020 stay centered within its lane and maintain a driver-set speed. The system can also adapt to varying traffic conditions by helping maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, even slowing to a complete stop and holding the vehicle in stop-and-go traffic. ProPILOT Assist comes standard on the SV, SL, and Platinum grades of the 2020 Nissan Altima.
Another cornerstone of Nissan Intelligent Mobility is Safety Shield 360. This comprehensive safety suite provides all-around monitoring and intervention technologies to enhance safety from front to rear and side to side. Safety Shield 360 encompasses Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking (RAB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), radar-based Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and High Beam Assist (HBA). These features work proactively to help drivers avoid potential collisions and navigate challenging driving situations with greater peace of mind in the Nissan Altima 2020.
Beyond Safety Shield 360, the 2020 Nissan Altima boasts a range of additional standard safety and convenience features across all trim levels. These include Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (I-FCW), and Intelligent Driver Alertness (I-DA). These systems add layers of protection and driver support to the already impressive safety credentials of the Nissan Altima 2020.
For enhanced driver awareness, Traffic Sign Recognition is standard on the SL and Platinum grades. This system utilizes a camera to detect speed limit signs and displays the information to the driver, helping them stay informed and compliant. Furthermore, the Platinum grade of the 2020 Nissan Altima comes equipped with the Intelligent Around View Monitor (I-AVM). This system uses four wide-angle cameras to create a virtual 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces significantly easier and safer.
Intelligent All-Wheel Drive: Confidence in All Conditions
Responding to widespread consumer demand for enhanced all-weather capability, the sixth-generation Nissan Altima 2020 offers available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. This marks the first time an AWD system has been offered on a Nissan sedan in the U.S. market, significantly broadening the Altima’s appeal, particularly in regions experiencing diverse weather conditions.
The Intelligent AWD system is available across all trim levels of the Nissan Altima 2020 that are equipped with the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. This advanced system employs a sophisticated torque split control strategy. It can seamlessly distribute torque between the front and rear wheels, ranging from a 100% front-wheel drive bias to an even 50:50 split, depending on real-time road and driving conditions. This dynamic torque distribution optimizes traction and control in a variety of scenarios, from dry pavement to slippery surfaces.
Moreover, the system features cooperative control between the AWD torque distribution, brake limited slip differential, and Hill Start Assist. This integrated approach further enhances performance, particularly on hill starts and uneven road surfaces. The result is a heightened sense of confidence and driving pleasure for the Nissan Altima 2020 driver, regardless of the weather or road conditions.
The World’s First Variable Compression Turbo Engine
A significant advancement for the Nissan Altima 2020 is the availability of the world’s first production-ready variable compression turbo inline 4-cylinder engine. This innovative engine, known as the VC-Turbo, replaces the previous generation Altima’s 3.5-liter V6, delivering comparable performance to some V6 gasoline engines while achieving significantly improved 4-cylinder level fuel economy.
The VC-Turbo engine represents a breakthrough in engine technology. It continuously adjusts its compression ratio, seamlessly transitioning between 8:1 for high-performance driving and 14:1 for maximum fuel efficiency. This is achieved through an advanced multi-link system that precisely alters the pistons’ reach, thereby modifying the compression ratio on the fly. Compared to the larger 3.5-liter V6 it replaces, the 2.0-liter VC-Turbo is also more compact, requiring less space within the engine bay of the Nissan Altima 2020. Despite its smaller size, the VC-Turbo delivers an impressive 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque when using premium fuel.
To optimize both efficiency and power delivery across all driving conditions, the VC-Turbo engine utilizes both multi-point injection and Nissan’s Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG™) system. For drivers of the Nissan Altima 2020 equipped with the VC-Turbo, a dedicated meter is integrated into the standard 7.0-inch Advanced Drive Assist Display. This unique feature allows drivers to visually monitor the control state of this groundbreaking technology in real-time, providing a tangible connection to the engine’s innovative operation.
Fuel economy figures for the 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine in the Nissan Altima 2020 are rated at an EPA-estimated 25 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined (based on regular fuel). This represents a significant 15% improvement in combined fuel economy compared to the previous Altima 3.5-liter V6, highlighting the efficiency gains achieved through the VC-Turbo technology.
Advanced and Efficient 2.5-Liter 4-Cylinder Engine
Standard across all grade levels of the 2020 Nissan Altima is an advanced 2.5-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder direct injection engine. This engine delivers 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque in front-wheel-drive configurations, and slightly reduced figures of 182 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque in AWD models. Introduced in the 2019 Altima, this engine represents a substantial evolution, with 80% of its components being new or redesigned compared to the previous generation 2.5-liter engine.
Beyond the increased horsepower and torque output, the new 2.5-liter engine in the Nissan Altima 2020 offers notable enhancements in noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) characteristics. These improvements contribute to a more refined and comfortable driving experience. Furthermore, the engine achieves enhanced fuel economy and cleaner emissions, aligning with modern demands for efficiency and environmental responsibility. The engine’s design also incorporates a “reverse” cylinder head with an integrated exhaust manifold, resulting in a lower profile and allowing for low engine mounting within the platform’s engine bay, further contributing to quieter operation. The 2.5-liter engine for the Nissan Altima 2020 is proudly assembled in Decherd, Tennessee.
EPA-estimated fuel economy for the 2.5-liter engine in the Nissan Altima 2020 varies slightly depending on drive configuration and trim level. Front-wheel drive S, SV, and SL models achieve 28 mpg city, 39 mpg highway, and 32 mpg combined. Front-wheel drive SR and Platinum models are rated at 27 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined. For models equipped with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, the fuel economy is rated at 26 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined for S, SV, and SL trims, and 25 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined for SR and Platinum trims.
All 2020 Nissan Altima models, regardless of engine choice, come standard with Nissan’s Xtronic transmission. For a more engaging driving experience, paddle shifters are available on the Altima SR grade, allowing for manual gear selection.
Enhanced Dynamics and Chassis Control
Complementing the available all-wheel drive system, all 2020 Nissan Altima models benefit from a suite of enhancements to the suspension, steering, and chassis control systems compared to the previous generation. Key suspension refinements include the adoption of monotube rear shocks and added suspension reinforcements. These changes improve vehicle responsiveness and handling precision without compromising ride comfort. Adjustments to the suspension geometry further enhance steering feedback, providing a more connected and engaging driving feel in the Nissan Altima 2020.
The steering system features a Dual-Pinion Electric Power Steering (DP-EPS) design. This system reduces steering effort at lower speeds, making parking and city driving easier. Conversely, steering effort is increased at higher speeds to provide improved feedback and control on the highway. Every 2020 Nissan Altima is equipped with an advanced Integrated Dynamics Module (IDM). This system incorporates two key technologies – Intelligent Ride Control and Intelligent Trace Control – similar to those found in Nissan’s flagship Maxima sedan. Intelligent Ride Control helps smooth out ride quality over bumps and uneven surfaces, while Intelligent Trace Control uses selective braking to enhance cornering feel and stability.
The Nissan Altima 2020 offers three wheel and tire size combinations: 16-inch, 17-inch, and 19-inch. Notably, the Altima SR grade features unique suspension and chassis tuning specifically calibrated for a sportier and more dynamic driving experience, appealing to drivers seeking a more engaging sedan.
Sporty Exterior and Premium Interior
The 2020 Nissan Altima presents an athletic and modern exterior stance. It is lower, wider, and more dynamically proportioned than its predecessor, a result of platform revisions and the use of the two low-profile engine designs. Compared to the previous generation, the new Altima is 1.1 inches lower in height, 1.0 inches longer in length, and 0.9 inches wider. It also features a shorter front overhang thanks to a 1.9-inch longer wheelbase and wheels pushed further to the corners. These dimensional changes culminate in a significantly sleeker and more sophisticated aesthetic for the Nissan Altima 2020. Aerodynamic efficiency is also enhanced, with a low coefficient of drag of just 0.26.
Exterior design highlights include the expressive V-motion grille with a dark chrome finish, striking LED projector headlights with signature Daytime Running Lights, available LED fog lights, a floating roof design with slim pillars, and an optional single-panel moonroof. These elements combine to create a distinctive and upscale appearance for the Nissan Altima 2020.
A diverse palette of nine exterior colors is available, allowing for personalization. These include premium colors like Scarlet Ember Tintcoat and Pearl White TriCoat, as well as unique options such as Sunset Drift ChromaFlair® (an orange hue with reflective pigments). Rounding out the color choices are Brilliant Silver Metallic, Gun Metallic, Super Black, Glacier White, Deep Blue Pearl, and Storm Blue Metallic.
Inside the 2020 Nissan Altima, the interior exudes a near-luxury ambiance in both design and material quality. The cabin is characterized by a lightweight, layered, and horizontally oriented “gliding wing” instrument panel, creating a sense of spaciousness and modernity. High-contrast color schemes and trim accents further elevate the interior’s premium feel.
The uplifting interior design is complemented by a high level of comfort, convenience, and connectivity features in the Nissan Altima 2020. Standard features include a 7.0-inch Advanced Drive Assist Display, enhanced NASA-inspired Zero Gravity seats with dual-density foam and added bolstering for superior support, available perforated leather-appointed seat inserts, remote engine start, and an available 8-way power driver’s seat with memory function.
For audiophiles, the Altima offers an available Bose® Premium Audio system. This system features nine speakers, including a digital amplifier with eight channels of custom equalization, delivering a rich and immersive sound experience. Active Noise Cancellation is also available on models equipped with the 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine, further enhancing cabin quietness and refinement.
Connectivity is a key focus in the Nissan Altima 2020. Standard features include Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, an 8-inch multi-touch color display, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®, Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant, and Siri® Eyes Free voice recognition. These technologies seamlessly integrate smartphones and provide access to a wide range of apps and functionalities.
Available NissanConnect Services powered by SiriusXM® expands connectivity further, providing compatible smartphone and smartwatch access to features such as Remote Engine Start/Stop, Remote Door Lock/Unlock, Valet Alert, and more. Select remote functions are also accessible through the NissanConnect Services Amazon Alexa Skill and Google Assistant Action, offering convenient voice control integration.
A Comprehensive Range of Models
The 2020 Nissan Altima is offered in a range of five trim levels to cater to diverse customer preferences and budgets: S, SR, SV, SL, and Platinum. All five trims come standard with the 2.5-liter engine and offer the option of Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. For those seeking maximum performance, the Altima SR and Platinum grades are also available with the advanced 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine (front-wheel drive only).
The base Nissan Altima 2020 S trim is well-equipped with standard features including Automatic Emergency Braking, Intelligent Driver Alertness, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Rear View Monitor, NissanConnect with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, a 7-inch Advanced Drive Assist Display, Remote Engine Start, multiple USB charge ports, an 8-way power driver’s seat, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, and Rear Door Alert.
Stepping up to the Nissan Altima 2020 SR grade adds sporty styling and features such as 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, unique rear diffuser color, sport-tuned suspension (FWD only), sport seats, paddle shifters, a leather-appointed steering wheel, LED projector headlights, dark chrome grille, Nissan Safety Shield 360, and black exterior accents.
The Nissan Altima 2020 SV trim enhances comfort and convenience with features like a moonroof, LED fog lights, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel, ProPILOT Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Rear Automatic Braking, heated outside mirrors with LED turn signals, and Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control.
Building upon the SV, the Nissan Altima 2020 SL grade adds premium features including a Bose® Premium Sound System, NissanConnect with Navigation and Services, Traffic Sign Recognition, leather-appointed seats, and a 4-way power passenger seat.
At the top of the lineup, the fully equipped Nissan Altima 2020 Platinum trim includes 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, Intelligent Around View® Monitor, interior accent lighting, and driver memory functions for the seat and mirrors, offering the ultimate in luxury and technology.
In conclusion, the 2020 Nissan Altima continues to set a high standard in the mid-size sedan segment. With its blend of innovative technology, powerful yet efficient engine options, available all-wheel drive, and sophisticated design, the Nissan Altima 2020 offers a compelling package for drivers seeking a sedan that excels in both practicality and driving enjoyment.
