The Altima was redesigned for 2002. It grew significantly, bumping it out of the compact car class and into the midsized sedan range. It was even larger than Nissan's flagship Maxima. For the first time, a V6 engine was available.

The 2002 Altima came in four trims: the base model, the midrange S, the plush SL, and the top-of-the-line SE. The SE came standard with a 3.5-liter, 240-horsepower V6, and the others had a 2.5-liter, 175-horsepower four cylinder engine. All models came with a folding rear seat, power doors, and a tilting steering wheel. Upgrading to the S got air conditioning, cruise control, remote keyless entry, and a CD player. The SL included a power driver's seat and an upgraded sound system. Upgrading to the SE got the bigger engine, foglamps, and bigger wheels.

Drivers found the new Nissan Altima to be much better looking than the previous version. Owners still praise the car's value and reliability, and say that while the V6 engine is a nice addition, the four cylinder offers so much pep a bigger one isn't necessary. Many find the interior to be unpolished, and the addition of optional features can cause the Altima's price to approach that of the Maxima.