2008 Nissan Altima Coupe Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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There's no doubt that Nissan is on a roll. For proof, just take one look at the all-new 2008 Nissan Altima Coupe, which joins the popular sedan (currently Nissan's best-selling vehicle) in the Altima lineup. With gorgeous lines, including a curved roofline that swoops down into a very stylish trunk and rear end, the new Altima Coupe is certainly going to attract the eyes of buyers seeking something sportier than a typical mid-size family sedan.
Although the new Altima Coupe borrows its overall design from the Altima sedan, which received a redesign in 2007, the Coupe is its own beast, with a distinctive grille, headlights, taillights, side panels, and rear end (only the hood is the same in both models). Overall, the Coupe has a lower roofline and a higher trunk and rear end, giving it a more muscular, rakish appearance.
The Coupe is also shorter and lighter than the sedan, which means that it's a bit quicker and more responsive, another appealing factor for many drivers. The Coupe isn't any more powerful than the sedan, however, since the two share engines and transmissions, as well as their basic interior design.
The 2008 Nissan Altima Coupe is powered by a choice of two engines. The 2.5 S model receives a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produces 175 horsepower, while the 3.5 SE provides more get up and go, thanks to a 270-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6.
A six-speed manual transmission is standard in both versions, while a smooth CVT (continuously variable transmission) with manual shift control is available as an option. Reviewers have given favorable comments to Nissan's new CVT, which they note is an improvement over similar transmissions in competitors' vehicles.
Both models feature dual exhaust outlets, as well as vehicle-speed-sensitive power steering, which provides more power assistance at lower speeds for easier parking.
Inside, the Coupe is equipped with such features as easy-to-read Fine Vision gauges and LCD readouts, aluminum trim or optional wood-tone accents, a sculpted look for the center vents above the console, plenty of storage spaces, and sport bucket seats with additional bolstering for support in hard corners.
Other features include an Intelligent Key system with push-button ignition, a six-speaker AM/FM stereo system with MP3 input, six standard airbags, and an optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system. A multifunction Navigation system with a RearView Monitor, XM NavTraffic, split-screen detail, phone call information, and satellite radio with extensive music information is also available.
Early reports from reviewers and drivers indicate that the Coupe handles well and is a fun vehicle to drive, although many recommend the 3.6-liter V6 engine for drivers who want to explore the car's limits. Overall, the consensus is that the new Altima Coupe stacks up well against its competitors and is a worthy addition to Nissan's lineup.
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2008 Nissan Altima Coupe
Write a reviewUser rating:
by Trinity P
Apr 03, 2023
It’s a good car just hard to find replacement partsApr 03, 2023
by Susan S
Aug 28, 2022
GREAT CAR GET ONE !!!! It really is a great carAug 28, 2022
by Anonymous
Jun 12, 2022
The Altima coupe is very comfortable in the front seat but is a a bit crowded in the rear. It handles very well on the road and has more power than I need but mine is the 3.5 SE V6. It has all the features that make for a great driving experience. The styling certainly appeals to me.Jun 12, 2022
User rating:
by Trinity P
Apr 03, 2023
It’s a good car just hard to find replacement partsApr 03, 2023
by Susan S
Aug 28, 2022
GREAT CAR GET ONE !!!! It really is a great carAug 28, 2022
by Anonymous
Jun 12, 2022
The Altima coupe is very comfortable in the front seat but is a a bit crowded in the rear. It handles very well on the road and has more power than I need but mine is the 3.5 SE V6. It has all the features that make for a great driving experience. The styling certainly appeals to me.Jun 12, 2022
by Anonymous
Mar 03, 2022
This is a great car in pretty remarkable shape for its age. Im happy with it!Mar 03, 2022
by Thomas L
Jul 22, 2021
Great handling, beautiful body style, and speed. Mine will go 150 mph. And it had a 4 cylinder. Jul 22, 2021
by Katherine E. L
Jul 16, 2021
it is the absolute best in my opinion! 10/10 recommendJul 16, 2021
by Lanell C
Jun 26, 2021
This car is phenomenal and if I could find another one I would buy itJun 26, 2021
by Monica B
Nov 18, 2020
smooth, classy ride. lots of get up and go and very sexy. I LOVED this car.Nov 18, 2020
by Patrick P
Sep 01, 2020
Very nice styling like the lines what do you want pretty comfortable carSep 01, 2020
by Terrie J
Aug 14, 2020
Great must have daily driver. Good performance easy handling very comfortable.Aug 14, 2020
by Dave A
Apr 10, 2015
The Nissan Altima Coupe is an awesome vehicle. Super good looks, great driving experience. Great pickup, awesome brakes, very good handling, super comfort and style. I would highly recommend this vehicle for a daily commuter, or a Sunday driver. Job well done Nissan.Apr 10, 2015
by Anonymous
Sep 08, 2014
This car has pretty good gas mileage.The steering is very nice. It is pretty fun to drive but it is just not a family car nor does it have very much power. But what do you expect for a 4 cylinder? The look of the car is slick, I actually really like the look of it. Its not a noisy car either.Sep 08, 2014
by Shanna M
Sep 04, 2014
The things i loved about this car is the great gas milage and low maintenance. The only down fall is the trunk is extreamly small as well as the back seat. This car has been extreamly reliable for myself and my children.Sep 04, 2014
by Anonymous
Aug 04, 2014
I love everything about this car! The acceleration is impressive as well as the breaking. Always feel in control when driving. 6 year old car that has only had routine maintenance, no unexpected repairs. Upgraded options with backup camera as well as Bose sound system add to the enjoyment.Aug 04, 2014
by Truly L
May 26, 2014
Great car really fast good fun lots of compliments on it!!!!!! Every one loves this car so much a eye catcher on the daily bases. I love this little car it a nice hot red color that fits me very powerful engine just have to get use to the transmission. May 26, 2014
by Anonymous
Mar 23, 2014
Overall we have loved this car. Not a fan of the push starts though. Easy to park due to the car being on the smaller side. Can't complain on the great fuel costs. Has been a good car for my daughterMar 23, 2014
by Bruce W
Oct 02, 2013
This car performed well beyond my expectations. Not only does it appeal to the eye, it is very snappy performer. You can drive it as aggressive if you want or dial it back and be very sensible. With a sun roof , auto temperature control and seat warmers, it can be driven as comfortably in Snow as well as in the sunshine. Dynamite car for someone that likes to drive a windy road every once in a while.Oct 02, 2013
by Barbie N
Jun 22, 2013
This car has almost everything I could want in a car. It handles great on the road, gets excellent gas mileage, has so many features inside that make it a pleasure to drive, like aux port, sunroof, leather seats, power driver seat, steering wheel controls for stereo, cruise control, and blue tooth hands free phone, dual climate controls, and much more. I love the push button start and the keyless entry and exit - so convenient not to have to dig my keys out all the time. The only thing I do not like about my car is the very uncomfortable angle that the seatbelt strikes me across my neck, no matter how I adjust it. And the only feature that is missing is memory seat. It takes me a while to get it exactly the way I like it, and then my husband jumps in it to drive, and I have to start all over. I never realized how convenient that feature was until I didn't have it.Jun 22, 2013
by Anonymous
Oct 11, 2012
I love the speed and acceleration of this car. I get lots of looks after a car wash, All it really needs are some brand new wheels to accentuate the exterior. I installed the rear spoiler which added more fancy to a sexy car. Oct 11, 2012
by Anonymous
Jun 25, 2012
A little small to be family practical, a bit of a squeeze for a 250 pound guy to climb in, but once in, it's great. Probably the best car I've ever owned in many respects. I really need just a bit more room to cart about antiques!Jun 25, 2012
by Nichole P
Nov 08, 2011
Acceleration is great, espsecially with the CVT transmission. Quality is great!! I think the car looks hot inside and out. Gas seems a little more pricey than my other car due to the bigger tank and the recommendation for premium gas. I love driving my car, it's awesome without being too flashy.Nov 08, 2011
by Bill S
Nov 27, 2010
I love driving this car. The upgraded
transmission is awesome, this baby just keeps
accelerating. Car is designed well inside &
out
and I get over 24MPG mixed driving. Not a
problem in the first 10K miles. Added High
Intake Air Flow and catbak exhaust without a
hitch.Nov 27, 2010
by Chris N
Nov 19, 2010
I have to say this is a very fun and good looking car. The performance is as good as a 4 cyl. can get, more upgrades to come soon. I would reccomend this car to anyone who would want a reliable fun car.Nov 19, 2010
by Don R
Aug 14, 2009
This car is great. Performance, handling is unbelievable, and redefines fun to drive. Overall quality is outstanding, quiet and solid ride. Could not be happier with the purchase. Received many compliments on the cars looks. Aug 14, 2009
by Jared A
Jul 15, 2009
It’s not a sports car per se, but it’s sporty; While it won’t have 350Z owners exchanging their keys, the performance and handling, particularly of the 3.5 litre V6 is more than enough to keep the average driver smiling broadly.Jul 15, 2009
by Vin D
Jun 23, 2009
2.5L is really good. Accelleration is great for a inline 4 cyc. I highly suggest it to anyone who likes driving fas and saving money on gas. Interior is great if you get the premium package, all I miss is having the Nav system.Jun 23, 2009
by John C
Dec 30, 2008
I know its only a 4 cylinder and is japanese but it is such a good looking car with amazing handling and fun drivability. It has great pickup and the cvt is actually kinda nice. It was pretty cheap for a new car, mostly cuz i got a real good deal and it has excellent gas milage (u know if you dont try to drive like a maniac). In short I love my car and there is so much i can still do to it to make it better.Dec 30, 2008
by Anonymous
Nov 27, 2008
Best automatic I have ever used. No need to down shift for steep downhills, it does it for you. Your Infinity won't do that, and its as smooth shifting as a jet boat. I can't say enough good things about this car or its remarkable tranny. This 58 year old cruiser says this car rocks. Looks so much better than the competion. 26mpg and this car will fly fast enough to leave most. Nov 27, 2008
by Aja H
Sep 14, 2008
i luv my baby!!~ can be compaired to the g35. similar everything (inside and out), just it costs a lot less :0) the only down side to her is that she eats a lot. gas mileage is so not the greatest. but with the manual transmission....watch out...she is a speedster. Sep 14, 2008
by Brandon A
Aug 20, 2008
I got the 2.5S, I'd rate the V6 much higher. I refuse to love any car, those are the ones that get totalled! Performance is decent, what I'd expect from a I4 FWD 2 door coupe. Build quality is great, minus 2 rattling door panels that you can't hear over the radio anyways. I love the looks of the car, it definitely looks sleek! Aug 20, 2008
by Dom B
Jul 27, 2008
There is nothing about this car that I do not like. It performs like a champ. The car is quick with great handling and a great ride. The appearance of the car is great. I love the body lines of the car and the overall design. This car is alot of fun to have. Jul 27, 2008
by Daron K
Jul 06, 2008
This car gives everything i need. Good looks, speed, power, handling, braking, and a sweet stereo.Jul 06, 2008
by Mikey C
Jun 24, 2008
2.5 S, 4 cylinder (175 hp), good power for a V4, stock (damn!), push start
button, keyless entry, coupe, blind spots take time to get use to, head-
turner, nice exterior
Jun 24, 2008
by Jonathan P
Jun 09, 2008
This is a great car. I got it because it has the looks and feel of the g35, but with far better distance. It doesn't have the same kick as the g, but for a 4 cylinder engine, it has good pickup. Jun 09, 2008
by Bruni C
May 16, 2008
Great interiors, smooth drive, cute, fast.May 16, 2008
by Brian B
Mar 04, 2008
3.5 SE
270 hp
v6
heated seats
dual climate control
9 bose speakers
moon roof
heated side view mirrors
turn signal mirrors
rear view dimming mirror
HID lights
6 cd changerMar 04, 2008
by Anonymous
Feb 24, 2008
I often drive the 08 Altima coupe and I absolutely love it . Very responsive (even for the 4 cylinder) and smooth. Really comfortable and love the styling. Also the interior layout is wonderful. I have no negatives to report. I love this carFeb 24, 2008
by Swapnil M
Feb 07, 2008
It's a good car for both taking your family for a trip, and thrashing around on the track. I would recommend the 3.5 V6 with the 6 speed manual. Very smooth and makes a nice noise. Lots of space inside, nice options and a good car overallFeb 07, 2008
by Nathaniel B
Jan 12, 2008
I drove the new redesigned altima coupe 3.5SE and it was amazing. THe one I drove had the new CVT transmission and with the 270HP V6 powering it it was just incredible. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for a beautiful performance car. Jan 12, 2008
by Matthew H
Dec 15, 2007
this car is nice, the gas pedal is soft dont have to kill it to make this car move. brake is the same way. no car i have driven is like that.Dec 15, 2007
What users have asked
Losing power after an hour 1/2 - 2 hrs or driving. Whats the cause?
If I go uphill, say to Vegas from Cali it losese power. I'll go 80 and it will steadily drop to 60. It also has a whirring sound. Nissan dealership says its not my transmission. Co-workers say its my alternator. Any suggestions help.
24722 views
Radio stays on after car is completely turned off.
The car will be completely turned off, but the radio will still be on and playing. I left it alone for a little while thinking it would turn off, like headlights take a few seconds, but never did. I removed the fuse as a temporary fix. The car itself is salvaged, but I have never had a single issue.
7630 views
Is this car a good buy?
Im planning to buy a nissan 2.5s coupe no cvt. It has 237 000 km not miles. Price is 2300 cad Took it to the mechanic and everything seems to be fine. Clean title. How long do you guys think this will last me?
26 views
do I need to service the transmission regularly
the manual doesn't say anything about servicing the transmission -- but my repair man says it's good "protection"? He'll charge $170 for what he calls "service transaxle"
33081 views
Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2008 Nissan Altima Coupe?Compare this car
2008 Nissan Altima Coupe Pricing
Original MSRP
$20,490 to $24,890Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
In-dash AM/FM CD/MP3 6-disc · Antenna Type: diversity · Auxiliary audio input: jack · Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio · XM with NavTraffic satellite radio · Total Number of Speakers: 6
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.7 · Front brake width: 1.02 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.5 · Rear brake width: .35 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with storage · Door sill trim: scuff plate · Floor Material: carpet · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with armrest · Cupholders: rear · Multi-function remote: keyless entry with remote front windows down · One-touch windows: 1 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: navigation · Storage: sunglasses holder · Vanity mirrors: dual
Driver Seat
Manual adjustments: 6 · Power adjustments: 8
Engine
Alternator: 110 amps
Exterior Features
Body side moldings: body-color · Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Mirror color: body-color · Mudguards: rear · Rear bumper color: body-color
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Auto-dimming mirrors: rearview · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating with sliding extensions
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 4
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: front
Seatbelts
Rear center seatbelt: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front
Seats
Driver seat manual adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: cloth
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Steering
Steering ratio: 16.2 · Turns lock-to-lock: 2.8
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Navigation system: DVD navigation system w/voice activation · Phone wireless data link: Bluetooth
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Wheels
Wheel covers: full
Windows
Front wipers: speed sensitive
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: diversity · Auxiliary audio input: jack · 6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Bose · AM/FM radio · XM with NavTraffic satellite radio · Total Number of Speakers: 9
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.7 · Front brake width: 1.02 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.5 · Rear brake width: .35 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with storage · Door sill trim: scuff plate · Door trim: leather · Floor Material: carpet · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with armrest · Cupholders: 4 · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Multi-function remote: proximity entry system · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: door pockets · Universal garage door opener: Homelink · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual · Power adjustments: 8
Engine
Alternator: 110 amps
Exterior Features
Body side moldings: body-color · Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Front bumper color: body-color · Mirror color: body-color · Mudguards: rear · Rear bumper color: body-color
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Headlights: Auto on
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: manual folding
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 4
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Moonroof: with wind deflector
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Camera system: rearview · Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: rear
Seatbelts
Rear center seatbelt: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front and rear · Seatbelt pretensioners: front
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: cloth
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Stability and Traction
Stability control: electronic
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Navigation system: DVD navigation system · Navigation wireless data link: Bluetooth
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: speed sensitive · Power windows: remote operation