Used 2021 Nissan Altima for Sale nearChattanooga, TN
Shop with transparent pricing.
Only show listings that include dealer fees- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Glacier White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 33 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Charcoal)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 3,885
- Stock #:
- P6250
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4BV0NN383969


Sponsored by Shottenkirk Honda of Cartersville
2022 Nissan Altima
2.5 S FWD
3,885 mi
$21,689
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 182 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 30 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Gray
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 116,213
- Stock #:
- 26867ADA
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4DW2MN311868

Sponsored Listing
2021 Nissan Altima
2.5 SV AWD
116,213 mi
$15,256
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Silver
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 130,100
- Stock #:
- 309228
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CV1LN309228

Sponsored Listing
2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
130,100 mi
$9,795
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Storm Blue Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Light Gray
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 114,359
- Stock #:
- 26H611A
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4DV3NN409249

-$493
2022 Nissan Altima
2.5 SV FWD
114,359 mi
$13,782
$13,289
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Gray (Gun Metallic)
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Sport
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 116,650
- Stock #:
- N90231A
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CV5LC145543

2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
116,650 mi
$13,302
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- SUPER BLACK
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Sport
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 38,097
- Stock #:
- V25622A
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CV8LC201698

2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
38,097 mi
$17,994
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 248 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Silver
- Combined gas mileage:
- 29 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 87,399
- Stock #:
- 136630
- VIN:
- 1N4AL4CV5LC136630

2020 Nissan Altima
2.0 SR FWD
87,399 mi
$15,698
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Super Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 33 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Charcoal)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 93,698
- Stock #:
- FS3546
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4DV8LC201487

2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 SV FWD
93,698 mi
$14,525
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 182 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Charcoal)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 70,164
- Stock #:
- MN325332
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CV8MN325332

2021 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
70,164 mi
$15,494
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 54,977
- Stock #:
- 25891
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CV3NN415828

2022 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
54,977 mi
$17,794
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 98,692
- Stock #:
- 302999A
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4FV1LN302999

2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 Platinum FWD
98,692 mi
$14,698
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Charcoal)
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 75,942
- Stock #:
- 25916
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4DV9NN372823

2022 Nissan Altima
2.5 SV FWD
75,942 mi
$14,794
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Brilliant Silver Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Sport
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 62,870
- Stock #:
- 24698
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CVXLC181924

2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
62,870 mi
$16,864
CarGurus Analysis:
2021 Nissan Altima
With 2,780 currently listed for sale and an average price of $16,347, 30.3% of 2021 Nissan Altimas for sale on CarGurus are rated as good or great deals.
Favorably reviewed: Owners rated the 2021 Nissan Altima 4.88 / 5 stars and CarGurus experts gave it a 7.17 / 10.
67.3% of 2021 Altima models on CarGurus are accident free.
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Silver
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Gray
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 77,448
- Stock #:
- 12065
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4DV2NN355958

2022 Nissan Altima
2.5 SV FWD
77,448 mi
$18,083
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 146,429
- Stock #:
- 2268
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CV4LC265432

2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
146,429 mi
$10,399
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Storm Blue Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Charcoal)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 92,375
- Stock #:
- L6653A
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4DV1NN351836

2022 Nissan Altima
2.5 SV FWD
92,375 mi
$16,203
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 182 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Gray (Gun Metallic)
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Sport
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 96,800
- Stock #:
- 65727F
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CV5MN387495

2021 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
96,800 mi
$16,360
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Glacier White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 33 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Charcoal)
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 45,757
- Stock #:
- P3212
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4BV5NN390710

2022 Nissan Altima
2.5 S FWD
45,757 mi
$17,997
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 182 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 127,978
- Stock #:
- 375828
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CV1MN375828

2021 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
127,978 mi
$13,334
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Brilliant Silver Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 33 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Charcoal)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 164,164
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4BV5LC232327

-$400
2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 S FWD
164,164 mi
$8,899
$8,498
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 182 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Gray (Gun Metallic)
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Charcoal)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 74,009
- Stock #:
- B17323T
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4DV6MN311878

2021 Nissan Altima
2.5 SV FWD
74,009 mi
$17,608
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 182 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Blue
- Combined gas mileage:
- 30 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Gray
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 112,100
- Stock #:
- NVAPLC168323
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4EWXLC168323

-$405
2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 SL AWD
112,100 mi
$14,962
$14,556
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Brilliant Silver Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 33 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Charcoal)
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 48,541
- Stock #:
- P3214
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4BV1NN392941

Sponsored Listing
2022 Nissan Altima
2.5 S FWD
48,541 mi
$17,997
CarGurus Analysis: 2021 Nissan Altima
overall

Summary
With 2,780 currently listed for sale and an average price of $16,347, 30.3% of 2021 Nissan Altimas for sale on CarGurus are rated as good or great deals.
Favorably reviewed: Owners rated the 2021 Nissan Altima 4.88 / 5 stars and CarGurus experts gave it a 7.17 / 10.
67.3% of 2021 Altima models on CarGurus are accident free.
Why it stands out
The 2021 Nissan Altima stands out as a midsize sedan that Nissan continues to support even as shoppers move away from sedans. It is in the third year of its sixth generation of production, and the car’s appeal comes from a mix of practicality and modern features that help it stay relevant in a crowded segment. Buyers looking for a sedan with broad appeal will find that the Altima has a loyal following and a reputation for steady evolution.
What makes the 2021 Altima especially distinctive is its available all-wheel drive, multiple powertrain options, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Those features give it a useful blend of capability and convenience that many shoppers will notice right away. At the same time, it is not without drawbacks: all-wheel drive is not available with the turbo engine, and the stereo is lacking. Even so, the Altima’s combination of comfort, quality, and advanced safety features helps explain why many owners respond so positively to it.
Other model years to consider
- Average price: $19,995
- Good/great deal percentage: 35.3%
- User rating: 5 / 5
- Total listings: 9,774
- Average price: $21,172
- Good/great deal percentage: 36.7%
- User rating: 5 / 5
- Total listings: 8,283
- Average price: $17,728
- Good/great deal percentage: 32.4%
- User rating: 4.83 / 5
- Total listings: 4,215
This analysis is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 14, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
4.9 Overall rating
Filter by rating
Clifton S
Reviewed a 2021 Nissan Altima on Feb 1, 2023
The features are slick everything seems to work together perfectly love the wheels I fell in love with this car as soon I saw and drove it. The best vehicle I have ever driven.
Anonymous
Reviewed a 2021 Nissan Altima on Dec 21, 2021
I enjoy the push start button it’s so much easier when juggling with kids. The car was at an amazing price for the features it has compared to other brands on the market and at an affordable price. I’ve gotten Hyundai prior but had less accessories and functions at a higher price.
Oscar B
Reviewed a 2021 Nissan 2.5 Platinum AWD on Jul 30, 2023
Car has a lot of good safety features and good comfort ability. Drives smoothly and spacious.
Jennifer M
Reviewed a 2021 Nissan Altima on Oct 4, 2021
I love everything about this car! Far exceeded my expectations.
2021 Nissan Altima Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| 2.5 SL AWD | $31,390 |
| 2.5 Platinum AWD | $34,250 |
| 2.5 SV AWD | $26,950 |
| 2.5 SR AWD | $27,950 |
| 2.5 SL FWD | $29,990 |
| 2.5 S FWD | $24,550 |
| 2.5 SV FWD | $25,550 |
| 2.5 SR FWD | $26,550 |
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
2021 Nissan Altima Price Trends
CarGurus tracks the prices of millions of used car listings every year. See how the average price of 2021 Nissan Altima prices has changed over time.
See more price trends2021 Nissan Altima Pricing Analysis
Pricing by Popular US Cities
Market Area: Nationwide
Key Insights
- Lowest Prices in Miami: The city of Miami, FL ($13,951) offers the most affordable options, likely due to higher inventory levels and demand for budget-friendly vehicles.
- Highest Prices in Philadelphia: In contrast, Philadelphia, PA ($16,300) has the highest average price, which may reflect a stronger demand for used vehicles in urban areas.
- Inventory Variation: Cities like Washington, DC (279 listings) and Philadelphia, PA (256 listings) show robust inventory levels, which may contribute to more stable pricing compared to cities with lower listings.
City-Level Pricing
| City | Total Listings | Avg Price |
|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia, PA | 256 | $16,300 |
| Dallas, TX | 215 | $16,084 |
| Houston, TX | 220 | $16,120 |
| Chicago, IL | 214 | $15,621 |
| Los Angeles, CA | 200 | $15,062 |
| Washington, DC | 279 | $14,796 |
| New York, NY | 258 | $14,199 |
| Atlanta, GA | 264 | $15,613 |
| Boston, MA | 188 | $15,682 |
| Miami, FL | 152 | $13,951 |
Pricing by Trim Packages
Key Insights
- Most Common Trim: The 2.5 SV FWD trim leads the inventory with 6,478 listings, indicating strong demand for this configuration.
- Price Range Across Trims: The 2.5 SL AWD trim, priced at $31,390 MSRP, represents the higher end of the pricing spectrum, while the 2.5 S FWD trim is more budget-friendly at $24,550 MSRP.
- AWD vs. FWD Demand: AWD trims like the 2.5 SV AWD and 2.5 SR AWD have lower inventory levels, suggesting a niche demand for all-wheel-drive options.
Trim-Level Details
| Trim | Listings | MSRP | Drivetrain | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 SV FWD | 6478 | $25,550 | FWD | 2.5L 182 hp I4 |
| 2.5 SR FWD | 2750 | $26,550 | FWD | 2.5L 182 hp I4 |
| 2.5 S FWD | 1675 | $24,550 | FWD | 2.5L 182 hp I4 |
| 2.5 SV AWD | 991 | $26,950 | AWD | 2.5L 182 hp I4 |
| 2.5 SR AWD | 771 | $27,950 | AWD | 2.5L 182 hp I4 |
| 2.5 SL FWD | 619 | $29,990 | FWD | 2.5L 182 hp I4 |
| 2.5 SL AWD | 401 | $31,390 | AWD | 2.5L 182 hp I4 |
| 2.0 SR FWD | 208 | $30,900 | FWD | 2.0L 236 hp I4 |
Pricing Analysis by Model Year
Key Insights
- Recent Models Retain Value: The 2026 Nissan Altima is currently priced at $23,779, which is about -13.0% below MSRP, indicating a strong demand for newer models.
- Significant Depreciation for Older Models: The 2018 Altima shows a steep decline, priced at $10,807, reflecting a -53.5% depreciation from its original MSRP.
- Best Value Years: The 2022 model is priced at $17,490, representing a -29.5% depreciation, making it a potentially attractive option for buyers seeking a balance between price and modern features.
Model Year Pricing
| Model Year | Original MSRP | Avg Price | Price vs MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $27,580 | $23,779 | -13.0% |
| 2025 | $27,000 | $21,003 | -22.2% |
| 2024 | $26,370 | $19,966 | -24.3% |
| 2023 | $25,630 | $20,552 | -19.9% |
| 2022 | $24,900 | $17,490 | -29.5% |
| 2020 | $24,300 | $14,273 | -41.4% |
| 2019 | $24,000 | $13,756 | -42.5% |
| 2018 | $23,260 | $10,807 | -53.5% |
| 2017 | $22,500 | $9,853 | -56.1% |
| 2016 | $22,500 | $9,651 | -57.0% |
| 2015 | $22,300 | $8,480 | -61.0% |
| 2014 | $22,170 | $7,718 | -65.2% |
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 10, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
How much does the 2021 Nissan Altima cost?
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Current Average Price | $16,337 |
| Year-Round Low | $16,263 |
| Year-Round High | $17,872 |
| Average Price a Year Ago | $17,863 |
| Change vs. Last Year | −8.55% |
Prices have softened 8.55% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.
There are 2,776 listings available, which suggests solid inventory for comparison shopping.
Is the 2021 Nissan Altima a good car?
Yes — the 2021 Nissan Altima earns a 4.88/5 user rating, and our experts rate it 7.17/10. The standout strength is Safety at 9/10.
Owners consistently praise its quality, comfort, stylish features, excellent gas mileage, smooth ride, and advanced safety features. That lines up well with the Altima’s role as a practical midsize sedan with broad appeal and modern features, especially if you want a car that feels easy to live with every day.
The main trade-offs are a lacking stereo and the fact that all-wheel drive is not available with the turbo engine. Even so, the Altima’s mix of comfort, quality, and available capability keeps it appealing for shoppers who want a well-rounded sedan.
With 30.8% of listings marked as good or great deals, there’s meaningful room to find a competitive price.
Is the 2021 Nissan Altima reliable?
Owners rate it 4.88/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction.
The owner feedback points to a car that feels reliable, comfortable, and trouble-free to live with, with many drivers highlighting its quality and smooth ride. That kind of language matters because it suggests the Altima is the sort of sedan you can count on for everyday use rather than one that demands constant attention.
The expert evaluation also emphasizes the Altima’s practical, well-rounded nature and its strong efficiency in regular driving. On the ownership side, the included maintenance coverage for the first scheduled visit helps reduce early service friction.
For used buyers, the main long-term risk is less about a known durability flaw and more about choosing a well-kept example with a clean service history.
What should I look for when buying a used 2021 Nissan Altima?
At 67.1% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
You should run a vehicle history report before you get too far into the process, then prioritize a pre-purchase inspection if the car has any prior damage or inconsistent service records. Focus on condition, repair quality, and whether the equipment you want is actually present on the trim you’re considering.
Key things to evaluate:
- Trim level: The base S feels a little stripped-down, while higher trims add better materials, more stitching, and a more polished cabin. The base trim also misses some of the richer equipment you’ll find as you move up the lineup.
- Powertrain: Most models use a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, while the SR VC-Turbo uses a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder with 248 hp and 273 lb-ft. The turbo model is the livelier choice, but it is only offered with front-wheel drive.
- Safety package: Nissan Safety Shield 360 includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear automatic braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot warning, lane-departure warning, and high-beam assist. It is standard on every Altima SV and above, so base-trim shoppers should verify equipment carefully.
- Infotainment: The base model gets a 7-inch touchscreen, while other trims use an 8-inch NissanConnect touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on all but S models, and upper trims can add more connected features.
- Fuel efficiency: The 2.5-liter engine is rated at 28 mpg city/39 mpg highway/32 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 25 mpg city/35 mpg highway/29 mpg combined with all-wheel drive. The VC-Turbo is rated at 25 mpg city/34 mpg highway/29 mpg combined.
Which 2021 Nissan Altima trim should I buy?
The 2021 Nissan Altima is offered in 6 trim levels: S, SV, SR, SR VC-Turbo, SL, Platinum.
Here's the short version:
- S: This is the least expensive way into the Altima, but it’s also the most stripped-down. You get the basics, yet you give up some of the nicer tech and safety content that makes the higher trims more appealing.
- SV: This is the best-value trim for many shoppers because it adds Nissan Safety Shield 360 and a more complete feature set without jumping too far in price.
- SR: This is the better pick if you want a sportier feel and more visual presence, plus stronger equipment than the lower trims.
- SR VC-Turbo: This is the choice for you if you want the most engaging powertrain. It adds the turbo engine and a more energetic driving character, but it is not the best value for everyone.
- SL: This is the sweet spot if you want a more upscale ownership experience, with features like Bose Premium Audio, NissanConnect Services, and ProPilot Assist.
- Platinum: This is the most fully equipped Altima, with the richest feature content and the most premium presentation.
Safety Shield 360 is standard on every Altima SV and above, so that trim line is the key cutoff to watch.
Is now a good time to buy a used 2021 Nissan Altima?
This is a moderate market for selective buyers, with enough inventory and pricing movement to reward careful shopping.
- Deal availability: 30.8% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
- Inventory: There are 2,776 listings available.
- Price trend: Prices have softened 8.55% compared with last year.
- Clean inventory: 67.1% of listings are accident-free.
If you find a listing below $16,263, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.
What is the 2021 Nissan Altima's resale value?
The current average of $16,337 sits slightly below last year's $17,863.
That softer pricing suggests the market has moved in buyers’ favor, which can make the Altima easier to purchase now but may also temper future resale gains if the trend continues. If you buy at the right price and keep the car in strong condition, you’ll be better positioned to limit depreciation later.
Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.88/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.
Is the 2021 Nissan Altima safe?
The 2021 Nissan Altima earns a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS.
It earns a 9/10 safety score from our experts.
Nissan Safety Shield 360 is the standard driver-assistance suite on every Altima SV and above, and it includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear automatic braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot warning, lane-departure warning, and high-beam assist. ProPilot Assist is available for highway driving support, and it adds intelligent forward collision warning, intelligent lane intervention, traffic sign recognition, intelligent driver alertness, and adaptive cruise control.
The main safety caveat is that the most complete safety package is not standard on every trim, so base-model shoppers should verify equipment carefully before buying.
Should I buy a 2021 Nissan Altima or consider a different year?
If you're weighing the 2021 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:
Choose the 2021 if:
- 30.8% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
- At 67.1% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
- Prices have softened 8.55% compared with last year.
- Owners rate it 4.88/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.
- It blends available all-wheel drive, multiple powertrains, and wireless smartphone integration into a practical midsize-sedan package.
Consider the 2020 if:
- At $14,364, the 2020 costs less than the current year's $16,337 average.
- It broadened availability of Safety Shield 360.
Consider the 2022 if:
- At $17,725, the 2022 costs more than the current year's $16,337 average.
- It expands Midnight Edition availability on the SR trim.
The bottom line: If you want the best balance of price, features, and market availability, the 2021 is the primary year to target. If your budget is tighter, the 2020 is the better price-first alternative, while the 2022 makes sense only if you specifically want the later packaging changes and are comfortable paying more.
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 15, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.
*CarGurus meticulously monitors the prices of millions of pre-owned vehicle listings, offering users precise and up-to-date market insights. Historical pricing data excludes any additional dealer fees as of May 3, 2026.
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