How much does the 2016 Nissan Altima cost?

Prices have softened 3.13% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 1,847 listings available, which suggests solid inventory availability.

If you find a listing below $9,416.91, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

Is the 2016 Nissan Altima a good car?

Generally — 4.47/5 from owners and 8/10 from our experts. The standout strength is Safety at 10/10.

Drivers consistently praise the Altima’s great gas mileage, sleek design, and comfort, and many also like its modern features and overall value for the price. In practical terms, that lines up well with this model year’s focus on space, value, comfort, and economy.

For you, that means the Altima makes the most sense if you want a practical midsize sedan that feels welcoming inside and still looks current. 25.1% of listings are priced as good or great deals, so there are still opportunities if you shop carefully.

Is the 2016 Nissan Altima reliable?

Owners rate it 4.47/5, a solid signal of long-term satisfaction.

User feedback points to a car that many drivers find reliable, dependable, and good for the long-term, especially when it comes to everyday use and value. The expert review also describes the proven engine lineup and well-sorted CVT automatic as not harboring nasty surprises for long-term maintenance.

The main ownership risk for used buyers is the transmission concern raised by some owners, so a careful test drive and service-history review matter.

What should I look for when buying a used 2016 Nissan Altima?

At 46.8% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.

You should start with a vehicle-history report and confirm whether any prior damage was repaired properly. Put inspection priority on body condition, panel alignment, and signs of inconsistent wear, then make sure the car drives smoothly and tracks straight. Because owner feedback raises transmission concerns, pay close attention to how the car behaves under acceleration and at steady cruise.

Key things to evaluate:

• Trim level: The lineup includes the 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SR, 2.5 SV, 2.5 SL, 3.5 SR, and 3.5 SL. The base setup is more basic, while higher trims add features such as LED low-beam headlamps, LED daytime running lights, and more upscale equipment.
• Powertrain: The 2.5-liter four-cylinder makes 182 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.5-liter V6 delivers 270 hp. The CVT automatic is the only transmission, and the four-cylinder is the efficiency play with 27 mpg city and 39 mpg highway.
• Safety package: Available driver aids include dynamic cruise control, blind-spot warning, and predictive forward collision alert with emergency braking. The safety tech is especially notable on higher trims.
• Infotainment: The standard system uses a 5-inch color display, while the navigation setup uses a 7-inch display. NissanConnect with Mobile Apps adds extra functionality, and the system includes voice command, Bluetooth, and rear-view camera display integration.
• Fuel efficiency: The four-cylinder is rated at 27 mpg city and 39 mpg highway, with a combined 31 mpg in mixed driving. The V6 returns 22 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.

Which 2016 Nissan Altima trim should I buy?

The 2016 Nissan Altima is offered in 7 trim levels: 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SR, 2.5 SV, 2.5 SL, 3.5 SR, 3.5 SL.

Here's the short version:

• Base trim: The 2.5 is the entry point, but it misses the richer equipment and safety tech that make the higher trims more appealing.
• Sweet-spot trim: The 2.5 SV is the best value if you want a stronger mix of comfort, features, and everyday usability without going all the way to the top.
• Premium/top trim: The 2.5 SL is the most appealing upscale choice, with luxury-style upgrades and the available active safety technology that makes this model year stand out.
• Off-road trim: The SR is the one to watch if you care more about a sportier setup than a typical daily-driver comfort tune.

The safety package is especially worth seeking out on the higher trims, where the active driver aids are more likely to be included.

Is now a good time to buy a used 2016 Nissan Altima?

This is a moderate market for selective buyers, so you can shop with some leverage if you stay patient.

• Deal availability: 25.1% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 1,847 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 3.13% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 46.8% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $9,416.91, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

What is the 2016 Nissan Altima's resale value?

The current average of $9,515 sits slightly below last year's $9,823.

That price movement suggests the market has already adjusted downward, which can help you as a buyer but may limit upside if you plan to resell soon. For a future seller, the softer trend means condition, mileage, and service history will matter even more when it comes time to price the car competitively.

Vehicles with solid owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.47/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.

Is the 2016 Nissan Altima safe?

The IIHS has given the 2016 Altima its top rating of Good across all categories, including the tough new small-overlap frontal crash test.

It earns a 10/10 safety score from our experts.

The available active safety equipment includes 6 standard airbags, and the driver-assistance setup adds dynamic cruise control, blind-spot warning, and predictive forward collision alert with emergency braking. That combination gives you a strong safety story for the class, especially on better-equipped trims.

Should I buy a 2016 Nissan Altima or consider a different year?

If you're weighing the 2016 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:

Choose the 2016 if:

• 25.1% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• At 46.8% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 3.13% compared with last year.
• Owners rate it 4.47/5 — a solid satisfaction signal.
• It brings a deep refresh with sharper styling, strong economy, and a lot of tech.

Consider the 2015 if:

• At $8,407, the 2015 costs less than the current year's $9,515 average.
• It excels at handling, fuel economy, technology and comfort.

The bottom line: If you want the refreshed styling, stronger modern appeal, and a well-rounded mix of value and tech, the 2016 is the better target. If your priority is spending less up front, the 2015 is the more budget-friendly alternative and still brings many of the same core strengths.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from August 21, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.