Following a redesign in 2007, the Nissan Altima four-door sedan received only minor upgrades for 2008. The big news for the 2008 model year was the addition of a two-door Altima Coupe as a new model, which stole most of the spotlight.

Improvements to the 2008 Altima Sedan include standard antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, a new antenna, and factory-installed XM satellite radio, which is available as an option.

The Altima Sedan is available with one of two gas engines or a hybrid. The 2.5 S is the entry-level trim, powered by 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, 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.

Inside, the Altima Sedan features easy-to-read Fine Vision gauges and LCD readouts, with aluminum trim or optional wood-tone accents, as well as a sculpted look for the center vents above the console.

Other features include an Intelligent Key system with push-button ignition, a six-speaker AM/FM stereo system with a CD player and MP3 input, six standard airbags, and an optional Bluetooth hands-free phone system.

There's no doubt that the 2008 Altima Sedan is a good-looking car, with contemporary lines, taillights inspired by fighter jets (according to the automaker), and a well-appointed interior for an affordably priced car. Drivers gave the 2007 model high marks for its improved appearance, responsive handling, and road-hugging performance, and those attributes continue to apply to the 2008 version, making it a good value in the eyes of many drivers.