The Altima suspension provides a balanced ride that's tuned more forsmooth ride than attacking twisty back roads, but manages to deliver a
sporty feel even so. Front and rear MacPherson struts mounted on a sub-frame
cushion jolts to the cabin, while front and rear stabilizer bars reduce
body roll in cornering maneuvers. If you want a little more authority in
handling responses, we recommend that you check out the SE model, which
firms up the suspension with firmer shocks and a larger rear stabilizer
bar.
Like most front-wheel drive vehicles, pushing the Altima to its handling
limit will yield understeer--the tendency for the front end to go straight
when pushed too hard in a corner. That said, the Altima confidently handles
its 3020-pound curb weight without drama and reacts predictably in emergency
maneuvers.
Our test car's braking performance was very good, thanks to the four-wheel
discs that go with the optional ABS.
All Altimas are powered by Nissan's 150-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder
engine. Unlike most of the Altima's competitors, there's no V6 option.