The word 'sculpted' comes to mind when describing the Nissan Altima Coupe, as there are precious few straight lines to be found on this mid-size five-seater. The xenon headlight clusters sweep back and upward into the hood and front fenders and the side profile is punctuated by front and rear fully rounded and flared wheel openings.
The roofline flows quickly to a high rear deck set of by the multi-lamp taillights and large molded rear valence.
While the base coupe comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, 16 and 17-inch alloys are optional.
There are two engine choices; a 2.5-liter dual overhead cam inline four that produces 175 horsepower and 180 pound feet of torque and a 3.5 Liter V6 that puts out a 270 horsepower while delivering 258 pound feet of torque.
Both versions of the Altima Coupe are front wheel drive with your choice of the 6-speed close ratio manual transmission or Nissan's Xtronic, Continuously Variable Transmission.
Fuel economy for the Altima Coupe ranges from 19 miles per gallon city, up to 23 miles per gallon highway.
To add a level of luxury to the Altima Coupe, a Premium package is available. It adds a power sunroof, leather seating, heated front seats, dual zone climate control, and a Bose 9-speaker sound system with 6-disc in-dash CD changer.
A fully independent, "sport-tuned" suspension includes speed-sensitive-steering and both front and rear stabilizer bars. Braking is provided via 4-wheel antilock discs with electronic brake force distribution. Both front and rear standard, side-impact and side curtain airbags are included.
Base MSRP for the 2009 Nissan Altima Coupe is $21,750. A fully loaded SE model will top out at around $33,000. The Altima Coupe is backed by a 5-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
With sculpted styling and potent, yet fuel-efficient powerplants, the Nissan Altima Coupe makes for a 2-door that's fun-to-drive...and practical, as well.