I really did like this car, but it was on a lease and I am trying to downsize.  Nissan paid off my lease early and gave me cash back to turn it in, so I was a great business deal to send it in early.  If I had already owned it I would have kept it.

First off, it's a Nissan, so one need not worry about reliability. The Altima is designed for driving enthusiasts (like me) who enjoy the driving experience, while getting from point A to B. The four-cylinder provides very satisfying acceleration, while not being a rocket ship either. During most driving, it really does feel like a V6, but with manners also. The handling and roadholding is very entertaining. It feels very tight and secure and it just feels like you and the car are in total control on the road. Steering is very responsive and precise, which further adds to that feeling of security and control. The brakes are very good also. Now let me comment on the styling. The Altima has a truly sporty look from every angle, with aggressive lines abound. It is impossible for anyone to overlook it, especially a police officer (drivers behave yourselves). I really enjoy the interior styling as well. Although not upscale, it is an enjoyable setup with everything conveniently located. I like the chrome accents, especially around the gauges. At night, the orange illumination is entertaining. I have only a few complaints with the 2.5S. ABS and side airbags are not standard on this trim, so safety freaks will have to pay extra. To sum up the 2006 Nissan Altima, it is a driving enthusiast's dream at a fair price. If you are looking for a comfortable family sedan, with a high fun-to-drive factor, look no further than the four-cylinder Altima

runs fast, has a lot of weight to it

The Nissan Altima has been in production since 1993.  As the car evolved from generation to generation, the overall build quality and features improved, and more altimas were seen on the road.  I tested a 2.5 S special edition Altima.  There are several trims available.  Power comes from a 2.5 liter I4 DOHC 16 valve engine producing 175hp and 180 ft/lbs of torque.  A 5 speed automatic gear box with variable valve timing is standard.  This is one of the flagship engines that is used in several vehicles by Nissan and Infiniti.  The car currently competes with the other mid size, reliable econo-boxes by Honda and Toyota.  The 2.5 S special edition is different from the regular 2.5 S in several distinct ways.  Such differences include 17 inch rims as opposed to the base hub caps, power driver seat with lumbar support, convenient buttons on the steering wheel to control the radio and cruise control, at trip computer in the dashboard, and of course -- special edition floor mats.  The suade/cloth-like upholstry is durable and is stain deffendant.  FWD is standard on all Altimas.