Used 2021 Nissan Altima for Sale near Tennessee
Shop with transparent pricing.
Only show listings that include dealer fees- 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:
- 105,921
- Stock #:
- 49540A
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CV8LN310313


Sponsored by Homer Skelton Ford
2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
105,921 mi
$15,366
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 236 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Super Black Clearcoat
- Combined gas mileage:
- 29 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Charcoal)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 97,372
- Stock #:
- 4NN348457
- VIN:
- 1N4AL4CV4NN348457

Sponsored Listing
2022 Nissan Altima
2.0 SR FWD
97,372 mi
$17,420
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 182 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 33 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 65,041
- Stock #:
- 25675CX
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4BV0MN351117

Sponsored Listing
2021 Nissan Altima
2.5 S FWD
65,041 mi
$18,950
- 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:
- 105,921
- Stock #:
- 49540A
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CV8LN310313

2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
105,921 mi
$15,366
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 182 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Gray
- Combined gas mileage:
- 30 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Gray
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 41,989
- Stock #:
- N13704P
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4EW9MN334319

-$450
2021 Nissan Altima
2.5 SL AWD
41,989 mi
$21,573
$21,123
- 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:
- Gray
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 65,526
- Stock #:
- N13705P
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4DV1NN384660

2022 Nissan Altima
2.5 SV FWD
65,526 mi
$18,690
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Blue
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 86,423
- Stock #:
- 258068
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CV7LC258068

2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
86,423 mi
$14,546
- 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:
- 33 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 124,173
- Stock #:
- 234300
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4BV6LC234300

2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 S FWD
124,173 mi
$10,292
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 182 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 30 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Sport
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 48,572
- Stock #:
- NP12540
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4FWXMN333422

-$872
2021 Nissan Altima
2.5 Platinum AWD
48,572 mi
$21,017
$20,407
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 236 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Sunset Drift Chromaflair
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Sport
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 77,621
- Stock #:
- NP12646
- VIN:
- 1N4AL4CV7MN313622

2021 Nissan Altima
2.0 SR FWD
77,621 mi
$17,450
- Year:
- 2022
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- All-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 182 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Pewter
- Combined gas mileage:
- 30 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 51,694
- Stock #:
- WYC-308184
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CW8NN308184

2022 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR AWD
51,694 mi
$20,890
- 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
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 58,524
- Stock #:
- 339956
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4DV6NN339956

2022 Nissan Altima
2.5 SV FWD
58,524 mi
$17,604
- 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
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 72,589
- Stock #:
- 415090
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CV0MN415090

2021 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
72,589 mi
$17,662
CarGurus Analysis:
2021 Nissan Altima
With 2,803 currently listed for sale and an average price of $16,258, 29.5% 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.
67.2% of 2021 Altima models on CarGurus are accident free.
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 248 hp 2L I4
- Exterior color:
- Super Black
- Combined gas mileage:
- 29 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Light Gray
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 84,070
- Stock #:
- 18518
- VIN:
- 1N4AL4FV1LC152674

2020 Nissan Altima
2.0 Platinum FWD
84,070 mi
$19,629
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 182 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Brilliant Silver Metallic
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black (Charcoal)
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 57,542
- Stock #:
- MN415451
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4DV8MN415451

-$700
2021 Nissan Altima
2.5 SV FWD
57,542 mi
$16,435
$15,735
- 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:
- 74,242
- Stock #:
- A378384
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4DV6NN378384
Photos coming soon
2022 Nissan Altima
2.5 SV FWD
74,242 mi
$17,343
- Year:
- 2020
- 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:
- 33 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 128,782
- Stock #:
- 23182J
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4BV3LN312701

2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 S FWD
128,782 mi
$12,656
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 182 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 33 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 65,041
- Stock #:
- 25675CX
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4BV0MN351117

2021 Nissan Altima
2.5 S FWD
65,041 mi
$18,950
- 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
$16,922
- Year:
- 2020
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 188 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Red
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Black
- Transmission:
- Automatic
- Mileage:
- 109,505
- Stock #:
- MAO5341
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CV5LC215543

2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
109,505 mi
$12,230
- Year:
- 2021
- Make:
- Nissan
- Model:
- Altima
- Body type:
- Sedan
- Doors:
- 4 doors
- Drivetrain:
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Engine:
- 182 hp 2.5L I4
- Exterior color:
- Pearl White
- Combined gas mileage:
- 32 MPG
- Fuel type:
- Gasoline
- Interior color:
- Sport
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 67,692
- Stock #:
- T365674
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CV5MN365674

2021 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
67,692 mi
$19,589
- 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
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 152,947
- Stock #:
- 26NT0168A
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CVXLC231835

2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
152,947 mi
$10,995
- 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
- Transmission:
- Continuously Variable Transmission
- Mileage:
- 152,947
- Stock #:
- 26NT0168A
- VIN:
- 1N4BL4CVXLC231835

Sponsored Listing
2020 Nissan Altima
2.5 SR FWD
152,947 mi
$10,995
CarGurus Analysis: 2021 Nissan Altima
overall

Summary
With 2,803 currently listed for sale and an average price of $16,258, 29.5% 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.
67.2% 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: $19,887
- Good/great deal percentage: 35.5%
- User rating: 5 / 5
- Total listings: 9,756
- Average price: $21,034
- Good/great deal percentage: 37.1%
- User rating: 5 / 5
- Total listings: 8,596
- Average price: $17,570
- Good/great deal percentage: 32.4%
- User rating: 4.83 / 5
- Total listings: 4,213
This analysis is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 28, 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 |
|---|---|
| 2.0 SR FWD | $30,900 |
| 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
- Highest-Price Market: Boston, MA leads with an average price of $16,144, indicating a premium market for the Altima.
- Best Value: Miami, FL offers the lowest average price at $13,837, presenting a significant opportunity for budget-conscious shoppers.
- Inventory Drives Stability: Atlanta, GA has the most listings at 288, suggesting a robust supply that may help stabilize prices in the region.
City-Level Pricing
| City | Total Listings | Avg Price |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta, GA | 288 | $15,529 |
| Washington, DC | 273 | $15,458 |
| New York, NY | 271 | $15,004 |
| Philadelphia, PA | 255 | $16,088 |
| Chicago, IL | 226 | $15,300 |
| Houston, TX | 226 | $15,322 |
| Los Angeles, CA | 201 | $15,391 |
| Boston, MA | 196 | $16,144 |
| Dallas, TX | 195 | $15,203 |
| Miami, FL | 162 | $13,837 |
Pricing by Trim Packages
Key Insights
- Volume Leader: The 2.5 SV FWD trim has the highest inventory with 6,629 listings, indicating strong demand for this configuration.
- Premium Spread: The 2.5 SL AWD trim, priced at $31,390, represents the highest MSRP, highlighting a significant price gap compared to the base trims.
- Drivetrain Effect: All trims feature the same engine, but the AWD variants generally command higher prices, reflecting consumer preference for all-wheel drive in certain markets.
Trim-Level Details
| Trim | Listings | MSRP | Drivetrain | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 SV FWD | 6,629 | $25,550 | FWD | 2.5L 182 hp I4 |
| 2.5 SR FWD | 2,825 | $26,550 | FWD | 2.5L 182 hp I4 |
| 2.5 S FWD | 1,674 | $24,550 | FWD | 2.5L 182 hp I4 |
| 2.5 SV AWD | 1,156 | $26,950 | AWD | 2.5L 182 hp I4 |
| 2.5 SR AWD | 760 | $27,950 | AWD | 2.5L 182 hp I4 |
| 2.5 SL FWD | 615 | $29,990 | FWD | 2.5L 182 hp I4 |
| 2.5 SL AWD | 424 | $31,390 | AWD | 2.5L 182 hp I4 |
| 2.0 SR FWD | 205 | $30,900 | FWD | 2.0L 236 hp I4 |
Pricing Analysis by Model Year
Key Insights
- New-Car Premium: The 2026 model has a starting MSRP of $27,580, indicating a premium for the latest model year compared to older versions.
- Depreciation Curve: The 2016 model shows the steepest depreciation at -57.6%, suggesting significant value loss over time for older models.
- Best Value Sweet Spot: The 2021 model, priced at an average of $16,066, represents a strong value proposition for buyers looking for a balance between price and features.
Model Year Pricing
| Model Year | Starting MSRP | Avg Price | Avg Price vs Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $27,580 | $23,229 | -15.8% |
| 2025 | $27,000 | $20,819 | -22.9% |
| 2024 | $26,370 | $19,743 | -25.1% |
| 2023 | $25,630 | $20,286 | -20.9% |
| 2022 | $24,900 | $17,193 | -31.0% |
| 2021 | $24,550 | $16,066 | -34.6% |
| 2020 | $24,300 | $14,341 | -41.0% |
| 2019 | $24,000 | $13,743 | -42.7% |
| 2018 | $23,260 | $11,059 | -52.5% |
| 2017 | $22,500 | $9,711 | -56.8% |
| 2016 | $22,500 | $9,534 | -57.6% |
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 30, 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 | $16,262 |
| Year-Round Low | $16,257 |
| Year-Round High | $17,834 |
| Average Price a Year Ago | $17,818 |
| Change vs. Last Year | −8.73% |
Prices have softened 8.73% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.
There are 2,799 listings available, which gives you a solid pool to compare prices and equipment.
Is the 2021 Nissan Altima a good car?
Yes — the 2021 Nissan Altima earns a 4.88/5 user rating and a 7.17/10 expert rating. 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 practical, broad-appeal mission, especially if you want a sedan that feels modern without being overly complicated.
The trade-offs are more modest: the stereo is lacking, and some owners wish for features like a sunroof. Even so, the Altima’s mix of comfort, quality, and available all-wheel drive makes it a sensible fit if you want a mainstream sedan with a little extra flexibility.
Only 29.8% of listings are priced as good or great deals, so the best examples may move quickly.
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 dependable, trouble-free ownership experience, with repeated praise for quality, comfort, and the kind of long-term confidence that matters when you’re buying used. The expert evaluation also emphasizes the Altima’s practical, well-rounded nature and its steady evolution, which supports the impression of a car built to be counted on.
The ownership picture is helped by the Altima’s mainstream mechanical setup and broad parts-and-service familiarity, and the cost-effectiveness notes suggest a straightforward ownership experience rather than a complicated one. For used buyers, the main long-term risk is less about the model’s basic durability and more about finding a well-kept example with the right equipment and maintenance history.
What should I look for when buying a used 2021 Nissan Altima?
At 67.5% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
You should start with a vehicle history report and then prioritize a careful inspection of bodywork, panel alignment, and signs of prior repair. Focus on condition first, because the spread in listing quality means two seemingly similar Altimas can feel very different once you look closely.
Key things to evaluate:
- Trim level: The base S feels a little stripped-down, while higher trims add better interior materials, stitching, and more upscale presentation.
- 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.
- Safety package: Nissan Safety Shield 360 is standard 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 on upper trims.
- Infotainment: The standard touchscreen is 8 inches on most trims, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on all but S, and the system includes over-the-air-connected services on higher trims through NissanConnect Services.
- Fuel efficiency: The 2.5-liter engine is rated at 28 mpg city/39 mpg highway/32 mpg combined with FWD and 25 mpg city/35 mpg highway/29 mpg combined with AWD. 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, SL, Platinum, and SR VC-Turbo.
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 a lot of the convenience 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 everyday feature set without pushing the price too high.
- SR: This is the better pick if you want a sportier feel and more visual presence, plus stronger equipment than the base model.
- SL: This is the sweet spot if you want a more premium ownership experience, with ProPilot Assist, Bose Premium Audio, and NissanConnect Services.
- Platinum: This is the most upscale choice, with the richest equipment list and the most luxury-oriented presentation.
- SR VC-Turbo: This is the enthusiast-leaning choice, with the more powerful turbo engine and the most engaging performance in the lineup.
Safety Shield 360 is standard on every Altima SV and above, so that’s the trim threshold to keep in mind if safety equipment matters most to you.
Is now a good time to buy a used 2021 Nissan Altima?
This looks like a moderate, selective buyer’s market, so you have room to shop carefully without expecting every listing to be a bargain.
- Deal availability: 29.8% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
- Inventory: There are 2,799 listings available.
- Price trend: Prices have softened 8.73% compared with last year.
- Clean inventory: 67.5% of listings are accident-free.
If you find a listing below $16,257, 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 $16,262 sits slightly below last year's $17,818.
That decline suggests the Altima has become more affordable for used buyers, but it also means a future seller may face a softer pricing environment than owners saw a year ago. If you buy well now, you may benefit from the lower entry cost, but resale gains are likely to depend more on condition, mileage, and equipment than on market momentum alone.
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 core driver-assistance suite, 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 on upper trims and adds intelligent forward collision warning, intelligent lane intervention, traffic sign recognition, intelligent driver alertness, and adaptive cruise control.
The main safety caveat is that Safety Shield 360 is standard on every Altima SV and above, so the base S trim misses out on some of the most important active-safety equipment.
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:
- 29.8% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
- At 67.5% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
- Price trend: Prices have softened 8.73% compared with last year.
- Owners rate it 4.88/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.
- The 2021 stands out for available all-wheel drive, multiple powertrains, and wireless smartphone integration.
Consider the 2020 if:
- At $14,406, the 2020 costs less than the current year's $16,262 average.
- It broadened availability of Safety Shield 360 and improved the safety story.
Consider the 2022 if:
- At $17,560, the 2022 costs more than the current year's $16,262 average.
- It expands the sporty Midnight Edition package to more configurations.
The bottom line: The 2021 is the right pick if you want the strongest balance of price, features, and broad appeal in this generation. If you’re especially price-sensitive, the 2020 is the value play; if you want to spend more for a newer-feeling package, the 2022 is the alternative to compare.
These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 29, 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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