2008 Nissan Altima Reviews, Pricing & Specs










































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































Overview
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...
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.

What owners say
"Overall, shoppers are very satisfied with the 2008 Nissan Altima, praising its fun driving experience, reliability, and comfortable interior. Many drivers mentioned the excellent performance, particularly the acceleration and handling, making it enjoyable for both city and highway driving. However, some drivers pointed out issues with the CVT transmission and mentioned the A/C problems. The value for money is frequently noted, with many stating it feels like a sportier choice without sacrificing comfort."
Performance - Acceleration(excelent) Braking(OMG super sensative), Handling (very good) Build Quality - Repairs(only once, loose bolt) no squeaks or rattles Appearence - Exterior(a little bulky but still nice, it is red) Interior(leather) Cost of Ownership - MPG(about 30-35) Maintenance(the usual, oil change, rotate tires, thats about it) Fun Factor - it is very fun to drive, i know from experience
August 8, 2008The cabin is very comfortable and everything is where I think it should be. The keyless entry and start took some getting used to, but I like it (I know some think it gimmicky, but I love that I don't have to fumble in my pocket for the fob). Great for long trips as well, surprisingly quiet at highway speed for a 6 cylinder, and it accelerates and corners great. On the minus side, the ride is very taut. And, if you live in a city that struggles to pave its roads (as I do) it can be a bit much at times. Also, under hard acceleration, the CVT transmission remains at about 5,000 RPM, I believe the Altima is more roomy and somewhat sportier then the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, which have been the major players in the mid-size-sedan market for years. Handling and acceleration were better than expected for a midsize 6 cylinder car. Averaged around 27 MPG in combination expressway and city traffic. Great looking car always appreciated the styling both inside and out.
August 20, 2014I really liked the fact that I have not had any major problems with it. I have not had to change the transmission. To the best of my knowledge the only things that I have replaced are the brakes, tires, and front bumper.
August 30, 2012What owners say
Performance - Acceleration(excelent) Braking(OMG super sensative), Handling (very good) Build Quality - Repairs(only once, loose bolt) no squeaks or rattles Appearence - Exterior(a little bulky but still nice, it is red) Interior(leather) Cost of Ownership - MPG(about 30-35) Maintenance(the usual, oil change, rotate tires, thats about it) Fun Factor - it is very fun to drive, i know from experience
August 8, 2008The cabin is very comfortable and everything is where I think it should be. The keyless entry and start took some getting used to, but I like it (I know some think it gimmicky, but I love that I don't have to fumble in my pocket for the fob). Great for long trips as well, surprisingly quiet at highway speed for a 6 cylinder, and it accelerates and corners great. On the minus side, the ride is very taut. And, if you live in a city that struggles to pave its roads (as I do) it can be a bit much at times. Also, under hard acceleration, the CVT transmission remains at about 5,000 RPM, I believe the Altima is more roomy and somewhat sportier then the Honda Accord or Toyota Camry, which have been the major players in the mid-size-sedan market for years. Handling and acceleration were better than expected for a midsize 6 cylinder car. Averaged around 27 MPG in combination expressway and city traffic. Great looking car always appreciated the styling both inside and out.
August 20, 2014I really liked the fact that I have not had any major problems with it. I have not had to change the transmission. To the best of my knowledge the only things that I have replaced are the brakes, tires, and front bumper.
August 30, 2012acceptional car. One of the most reliable cars and saves you money. No regrets. Went from a 2008 BMW 328xi coupe, to 2008 Nisaan Altima. Best choice. Plenty of power. The body style is pretty cool. Deffenetly a great buy.
March 6, 2011Performance is mediocre. It is an Altima after all. Quality is top notch. The interior is comfortable. The Exterior is good looking. Great gas mileage when on road trips. Easy on maintenance, except tires. New tires can be a bit pricey. The fun factor is like a 3 out of 5.
August 29, 2010Build Quality: I've had it for over a year, and the only issue was with a tire sensor whose battery went out. Performance: I've taken this car everywhere, including the Mass Pike in Boston, and have not felt afraid to do so. Appearance: Let's just say that I still love to look out my living room window to gawk at it! Cost of Ownership: Very low maintenance. Gas mileage gets skewed because I do a lot of city driving. Fun Factor: See review for performance.
April 13, 2010CVT is the greatest. Handles like a dream. Performance is awesome. Build quality is solid. Appearance is excellent. Gas mileage is good unless you punch it. It is indeed a fun car to drive. Nissan power delivered, period! Nissan = Quality.
June 1, 2009Looking for a family car? This one is it! It has every possible feature you can think of, and its zippy and wicked on gas. I can't find one thing bad to say about it!
April 12, 2008The thing i liked the most about this car. Its a great family car with lots of room. And for its size its really fast. Alot of power and still great gas mileage. All around great car. Do your research this is a very nice car.
February 23, 2015I really enjoy my altima. It is spacious, gets good gas mileage and is also very stylish. The sounds system is great and I have had little to no problems in the year and a half that I have had it.
January 19, 2015Trims & specs
Base MSRP $18,230 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 170 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $24,430 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 170 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $24,430 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 175 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $24,080 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.5L 270 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $20,080 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 175 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $18,230 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 175 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $28,280 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.5L 270 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $25,070 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 198 hp I4 Hybrid | Cargo Capacity 10.1 cu ft |
Combined MPG 34 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $20,080 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 170 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 15.3 cu ft |
Combined MPG 27 | Drivetrain FWD |
Pricing trends
MSRP range
$18,230 - $28,280
Current avg. market price
$4,624
Trending down by 2.5% this month
May 2026 - October 2026






