Vehicle Information

Drivers who are interested in the fuel savings and decreased emissions of a hybrid, but have been turned off by hybrid-specific styling in other hybrid models, may want to take a look at the Nissan Altima Hybrid. The conventional look and feel of the Altima Hybrid may appeal to buyers who would never consider other more well known hybrids. A small silver decal is the only exterior hint that the sporty sedan is not a normal gas engine car.
Under the hood and in the trunk, where the nickel batteries are stored, the Altima Hybrid is basically a Toyota Camry Hybrid. The car’s electric motor, battery pack, and electric-assist steering system, as well as the CVT transmission and battery-charging regenerative brakes are all Toyota licensed technology.
The Altima carries a 2.5-liter engine, complete with slight software tweaks to add a little pep to the Toyota inherited computer control system. These computer tweaks trade a little bit of Camry’s quiet cabin and smooth ride for increased performance, once again highlighting the unique nature of the Altima Hybrid among entry level hybrid sedans. Another slight difference between the Altima and Camry is the fuel tank; at 20 gallons the Altima tank is almost three gallons larger than the Camry, increasing the possible driving distance about another 100 miles.
Over all, the Altima Hybrid is definitely more of a “driver’s car” than the Camry Hybrid. If extra style and performance is an important factor in choosing a hybrid in this price range and you’re willing to sacrifice some of the quiet ride of the Camry, then you should definitely test drive a Nissan Altima Hybrid. The Altima Hybrid is currently only available in eight states, including California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. However, it is widely assumed that if first year sales are strong, Nissan will greatly increase availability throughout the United States.

Nissan Altima Hybrid Specifications:
Style Midsize Sedan
Seating 5
Mileage 35/33
Tank Size 20 gallons
Emission Rating AT-PZEV
Passenger Volume 101 cu.ft.
Cargo Volume 9.1 cu.ft.
0 - 60 Performance 9 seconds
Net Power 198 horsepower
Gas Engine Torque 162 lb.-ft @ 2800 RPM
Electric Motor Torque 199 lb.-ft @ 0-1500 RPM
Displacement 2.5 liter
Battery Output 244.8 volts
Drag Coefficient .30