Vehicle Spotlight: 1993-Present Nissan Altima (6 Generations)
A Legendary Sedan that Deserves its Day in the Spotlight
If you want a roomy, fuel-efficient car, the Altima is a popular choice. This midsize car is well-known for its affordability. However, even the most reliable cars are susceptible to fender benders or a rear-end collision. If you’re a Nissan Altima owner looking for a replacement part, like an Altima replacement fender or bumper, you may need more information on your car before making a purchase. We can teach you more about the Nissan Altima as we recount its first six generations.
Trim Levels on the Nissan Altima
The first generation of Altima was launched in 1993. From 1993 to 2019, the Nissan Altima has had six distinct generations, and each successive generation has brought new features for drivers to enjoy.
The 1st Gen (1993-1997) Altima had four trims: XE, GXE, SE, and GLE. The XE was the stripped-down basic version, the GXE was mid-level, the SE was sportier, and the GLE was its luxury trim. These trim levels remained constant until the third generation, which added the SE-R: another sporty trim with features like dark-tinted Xenon headlights, side skirts, and a rear lip spoiler.
The 5th Gen (2013-2018) Altima overhauled its trim levels. The new trim levels were now 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SV, 2.5 SL, and 3.5 SL. These trim levels were comparable to previous trim levels: the 2.5, for example, was the base trim, the SR was the sports trim, and the S, SV, and SL were luxury trim options, with the S/SV being mid-level and the SL being premium. The S, SR, SV, and SL trim levels returned for the sixth generation.
Altima Upgrades from Generation to Generation
Each successive generation of Altima allowed Nissan to innovate new features. The Altima has undergone many different design changes, the most obvious being its size. Starting with the 3rd Gen, the Altima grew significantly, rearranging its interior to be more spacious and comfortable. Despite growing in size, the Altima is well-known for being a light car, thanks to the strategic use of high-strength steel and aluminum in the trunk, roof, and hood.
Many Altima innovations were technology-based. For example, the 4th Gen (2007-2012) was the first to add Bluetooth capabilities, a parking camera, and a standard Smart Key for unlocking, locking, and starting the vehicle. In 2008, all Altima models included ABS with electronic brake-force distribution. The sixth generation added safety features like a Pedestrian Detection System and Intelligent Lane Intervention.
The Altima has had different variations as well. It received a coupe version exclusive to its 4th Gen (2007-2012), with a shorter body and only two seats but a sportier exterior with longer doors and rear windows. This generation also introduced Nissan’s first hybrid car, the Altima Hybrid.
How to Improve Your Nissan Altima’s Resale Value
Several simple tasks can quickly boost your Nissan Altima resale value. Cleaning your Altima before selling it will help it sell faster and for a higher price. For the best results, be thorough. Clean every part of the car, including the wheels. Before you sell your Altima, you can help preserve its value with a consistent cleaning and maintenance schedule.
The Place for Replacement Altima Fenders, Bumpers, and More
Paint damage or body damage are significant obstacles when it comes to improving your resale value. Some paint damage, like superficial scratches, can be covered with touch-up paint. Body parts with extensive damage need replacing. Fortunately, Paint A Part sells pre-painted Altima replacement parts. You can find pre-painted Altima fenders, bumpers, and hoods in one of several factory-accurate paint colors; your brand-new part arrives looking fresh off the assembly line. Our replacement parts are an easy, affordable way to restore resale value to your car.