2010 Nissan Altima Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Except for a few minor cosmetic changes, as well as a few additions to options packages, the 2010 Nissan Altima is a carryover from 2009....
Except for a few minor cosmetic changes, as well as a few additions to options packages, the 2010 Nissan Altima is a carryover from 2009. This front-wheel-drive, five-passenger sedan has long been considered one of the most stylish midsize automobiles in its price range, while ride and handling characteristics, not to mention a safety record second to none, have made the Altima a significant force in the family sedan market. Available in five trims, the base 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SL, 3.5 SR, and Hybrid, the 2010 Altima sedans all boast a standard continuously variable transmission (CVT), Nissan apparently having decided that complaints warranted dropping the troublesome six-speed manual transmission for this model year.
As their monikers imply, the 2010 Nissan Altima 2.5 trim levels each pack a 2.5-liter variable-valve-timed inline four-cylinder (I4) engine and the now-ubiquitous CVT to produce 175 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy with the 2.5-liter I4 is estimated at 23/32 mpg. The 3.5 SR boasts a 3.5-liter V6 engine, again with the standard CVT, that produces 270 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Mileage is estimated to be 20/27. The Altima Hybrid sports the 2.5-liter I4 gasoline engine, good for 158 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, as well as a 40-hp electric motor. The single electric motor powers the car at low speeds, and its single nickel-metal hydride battery is recharged by both the gas engine and a regenerative braking system. As with most hybrids, the Altima Hybrid’s gas motor shuts down at a stop and restarts when accelerating. Mileage for the Altima Hybrid is touted to be 35/33.
Standard appearance, comfort, and convenience features with the 2010 Nissan Altima 2.5 sedan include 16-inch steel wheels, velour upholstery, power windows, door locks, and mirrors, cruise with wheel-mounted controls, air conditioning, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and, curiously, only the wiring for an audio system with four speakers, but no radio or CD player. The 2.5 S adds the Intelligent Key remote entry system and a single-CD player with six speakers. Adding the available SL Package to the 2.5 S turns it into the 2.5 SL trim, featuring 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, leather seating, power driver’s-seat lumbar support, heated front seats, auto on/off headlights, and a leather-wrapped shift knob. The 2010 Altima 3.5 SR boasts such standard offerings as a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch aluminum wheels, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated mirrors with integrated turn signals, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. As for the Altima Hybrid, standard features include dual-zone climate control and 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels.
Options for the 2010 Altima sedan come mostly in package form. Option packages, however, do include a power moonroof, DVD navigation system, Bluetooth hands-free communications technology, and Bose audio with nine speakers. One of the few stand-alone options offered with the 2.5 S and higher trims is a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.
As for safety, the 2010 Nissan Altima lineup is equipped with standard four-wheel disc ABS, traction and stability control using Nissan’s much ballyhooed Vehicle Dynamic Control, dual front side-mounted airbags, front and rear head airbags, and a remote anti-theft alarm system. The 3.5 SR also carries standard integrated signals in the outside mirrors, while the 2.5 S, 3.5 SR, and Hybrid trims additionally offer dusk-sensing auto-on/off headlights.
Owners of the 2009 Nissan Altima seem to be split in their opinion of both mileage from the gas-engine trims and noise levels in the otherwise well-regarded cabin. Virtually all owners deplore the Altima’s audio system and windshield wipers, while some complain as well about over-active brakes, the lack of standard heated mirrors on lower trims, and the necessity of buying option packages to get a single desired option. The push-button start system in the 2010 Altima also draws mixed reviews, with some loving its refinement and others loathing its apparently unreliable nature. Meanwhile, owners praise the 2010 Altima’s ride and handling, decent acceleration, even with the I4, as well as its distinctive styling and tolerably large trunk space.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2010 Nissan Altima praise its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable interior. Many drivers appreciate the car's safety features and good value for the price. However, some have pointed out imperfections in the body and interior, and a few have expressed a need for more trunk space. Still, most seem very satisfied with their purchase and would recommend it to others."
Extremely reliable car had mine for 10 years then got in a major accident and the car was totaled. As bad as the accident was I came out unscathed. This car is 100% built for safety and economy driving while the interior gives you the feel of luxury. Would recommend to anyone. I might even buy another one.
May 12, 2020This car has been a great car for me. I drive a lot of highway miles in all weather conditions and this car has handled it all. I have been very happy with its fuel mileage as well as it's comfort while driving.
October 30, 2012This is the facelifted 4th generation Nissan Altima for 2010. At first glance you know you are looking at something that is intriguingly different from its more dull and conservative Japanese offerings from Toyota, Honda and Mitsubishi in the heavily competitive mid-size market. It really does look good with modern lines and curves and a swooping roofline all the way down to the rear to give it that coupe look ending with rocketship looking tailights and twin exhausts that will definitely make it go unnoticed. This is the 2.5l 4-cylinder S model and it comes with an excellent 180 hp 4-cylinder engine. 0 - 60 mph takes just over 8 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 124 mph. Fuel consumption is an adequate 31 mpg. This particular car is equipped with a 6 speed manual transmission although a silly CVT auto is also offered. Inside you get loads of space with plenty of legroom and comfortable seats and a stylish but well made dash with a nice, warm and welcoming orange glow when the controls are lit up at night. The car offers great value for money compared to its rivals in terms of kit with cruise control, ABS, stability control and four airbags being offered as standard. Also included are a trip computer, tire pressure moniter, remote keyless entry and starter button. Options inlcude: Fog lamps, reverse sensors, folding electric mirrors, mud guards, rear spoiler and alloy wheels and many more. Luggage space is large with rear seats that fold down for even more space. On the road the car is great to drive with the perfect balance of being both a cruiser and a drivers car. Ride quality is excellent although a little harsh in some cases due to the firm suspension setup but road grip is superb with little understeer at the limit. The steering is responsive but unfortunately too soft and numb which does not make it a proper drivers car like the Mazda 6 but does not affect the fun factor in the overall driving experience. To conclude, the Nissan Altima is an excellent car for those wanting a car that is comfortable, stylish, well made and great fun to drive that is also loaded with kit and offers great value for money. Hats off to Nissan for a job well done.
April 27, 2010What owners say
Extremely reliable car had mine for 10 years then got in a major accident and the car was totaled. As bad as the accident was I came out unscathed. This car is 100% built for safety and economy driving while the interior gives you the feel of luxury. Would recommend to anyone. I might even buy another one.
May 12, 2020This car has been a great car for me. I drive a lot of highway miles in all weather conditions and this car has handled it all. I have been very happy with its fuel mileage as well as it's comfort while driving.
October 30, 2012This is the facelifted 4th generation Nissan Altima for 2010. At first glance you know you are looking at something that is intriguingly different from its more dull and conservative Japanese offerings from Toyota, Honda and Mitsubishi in the heavily competitive mid-size market. It really does look good with modern lines and curves and a swooping roofline all the way down to the rear to give it that coupe look ending with rocketship looking tailights and twin exhausts that will definitely make it go unnoticed. This is the 2.5l 4-cylinder S model and it comes with an excellent 180 hp 4-cylinder engine. 0 - 60 mph takes just over 8 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 124 mph. Fuel consumption is an adequate 31 mpg. This particular car is equipped with a 6 speed manual transmission although a silly CVT auto is also offered. Inside you get loads of space with plenty of legroom and comfortable seats and a stylish but well made dash with a nice, warm and welcoming orange glow when the controls are lit up at night. The car offers great value for money compared to its rivals in terms of kit with cruise control, ABS, stability control and four airbags being offered as standard. Also included are a trip computer, tire pressure moniter, remote keyless entry and starter button. Options inlcude: Fog lamps, reverse sensors, folding electric mirrors, mud guards, rear spoiler and alloy wheels and many more. Luggage space is large with rear seats that fold down for even more space. On the road the car is great to drive with the perfect balance of being both a cruiser and a drivers car. Ride quality is excellent although a little harsh in some cases due to the firm suspension setup but road grip is superb with little understeer at the limit. The steering is responsive but unfortunately too soft and numb which does not make it a proper drivers car like the Mazda 6 but does not affect the fun factor in the overall driving experience. To conclude, the Nissan Altima is an excellent car for those wanting a car that is comfortable, stylish, well made and great fun to drive that is also loaded with kit and offers great value for money. Hats off to Nissan for a job well done.
April 27, 2010I loved everything about this car! First car I ever owned and I have had it for 3 years now and never once did I have to put it in the shop unless it was for general maintenance (oil change brakes etc.)
May 26, 2015The Altima has been around a long time and has improved in technology, ride, styling and safety every year. Just look around as you drive and you will now notice just how many are on the road. We are buying a new Altima based on the past performance our 2010 and Consumer Reports reliability ratings. The Accord and Camry are also nice cars, at a much high price.
October 14, 2013I love the gas mileage and reliability of the car. My only dislike is that while the trunk space is huge, I need more space which is why I'm selling. This is the ONLY reason I'm selling. I truely love This car.
July 22, 2011This is a very nice car. I have never had any trouble with it. Get decent gas mileage. Smooth and quite ride. The charcoal gray is a great color that barely shows dirty. I would recommend this car to others.
June 7, 2014i think its the best car ive driven (because its about the only one, lol) performance- 4 cyl. engine so good fuel economy with about 175 hp. its ok build quality - plastics mean its not too hard but the plastics are nice and firm appearance - nice curving lines, but headlights could be improved with more sharp edges cost stuff - idk really... fun factor - oh yeah, aluminum chasis is so good and the suspension is good too
October 4, 2010It looks great , it’s great on gas and there is also no major issues in site
March 22, 2021Ive driven the car about 300 miles since purchasing last week with 85k miles on the odometer. Good value commuter car. It seems very durable and heavy, like it would hold up in an any accident if needed. The controls and display are not dated for a 12 year old vehicle. Think I would like the seat to have more cushion for longer rides. Overall, this car will get me where I need to go.
August 27, 2021Trims & specs
Base MSRP $25,630 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 175 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $24,520 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.5L 270 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 23 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $19,900 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 175 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $21,840 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 175 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
Pricing trends
MSRP range
$19,900 - $25,630
Current avg. market price
$5,403
Trending up by 1.1% this month
May 2026 - November 2026
