Built in Smyrna Tenn., Altima fills an important role in Nissan's three sedan strategy. Situated between the compact Sentra and flagship, six-cylinder Maxima, the four-cylinder, mid-size Altima continues as Nissan's top-selling vehicle in the United States; an impressive feat considering Altima, introduced in 1992, is a relative newcomer. Nissan, one of Japan's top three importer of vehicles to the United States, offers four front-wheel drive 1997 Altima trim levels: base XE, mid-level GXE, sporty SE and luxury GLE. All share the same competent, 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine delivering an impressive 150 horsepower. Nissan introduced its 1997 models early this past spring, but added a 1997.5 Altima earlier this fall. Major 1997.5 tweaks include two new exterior colors, and interior enhancements in GLE models. Dual air bags are standard, but anti-lock brakes are optional in all editions. Air conditioning is optional in XE and GXE editions, but standard in SE and GLE. Automatic transmission is an $800 option in all but the top-of-the-line GLE. Our test drive Altima SE, with manual transmission, started at $19,699. With optional sun roof ($849) and anti-lock brakes ($499) the bottom line added up to $21,517, including a $470 destination charge. Entry-level XEs start at $15,849. All Altimas include rear-window defrosters, tilt steering column, two-speed intermittent windshield wipers and dual power remote-controlled outside mirrors standard. Exterior wise, the SE's standard rear spoiler adds an aggressive dimension. The spoiler is optional in other trim levels. From a performance standpoint, Altima gravitates more towards an agile sports car ride as opposed to a family sedan. The impressive, very quiet, four-cylinder engine delivers 150 horsepower. Power-assisted rack-and-pinion system and 4-wheel independent suspension are standard across the board, and add to a sporty, yet comfortable ride. Inside, drivers control temperature and fan direction by a series of buttons, levers and dials, located right of the instrument cluster. Power window and lock buttons are arranged vertically on the driver's door. Remote trunk and fuel door release levers are right of the driver's front bucket seat, and difficult to reach unless the door is opened. As a safety precaution, drivers must push a small button on the steering column before removing the ignition key . Taller drivers should make their way towards the contoured and comfortable front bucket seats because there's about an inch-and-a half more headroom when compared to back seating. Even with the optional sun roof, front passengers enjoy decent headroom. Comparing Altima with other mid-size offerings, it's interior has a slightly tighter feel. Even though promotes Altima as a five seater, two adults situate most comfortably in the rear. Our five-speed manual transmission shifted adequately, but overall had a stiff feel. Most imports incorporate a smoother glide when manually maneuvering gears. The radio antenna raises and retracts each time the radio switches on and off. A feature standard in SE and GLE. The flat, spacious trunk incorporates a high lift over design, hindering loading of heavier items. Rear seats didn't fold down, but a small door behind the fold down center armrest, allows access to the trunk for toting snow skies and other long items. Mileage estimates check in at 24 miles per gallon city, and 30 mpg highway. Our jet black, test drive Altima SE, with manual transmission and 4,200 odometer miles, registered 26 mpg in combined driving. The fuel tank holds 15.9 gallons of unleaded gasoline. In addition to the Sentra/Altima/Maxima sedan trio sold in the United States, Nissan also offers the 240SX and 200SX two-door coupes, the Pathfinder sport utility, Quest minivan and assorted pickups |