For years, the Nissan Altima seemed destined for extinction. As midsize sedans steadily lose ground to crossovers and SUVs, most automakers have already abandoned the segment altogether. Yet, against expectations, Nissan has decided to keep the Altima alive for the 2026 model year—though not without making notable changes to its lineup and pricing strategy.
A Slimmed-Down Lineup for 2026
Nissan has significantly simplified the Altima range for 2026 by removing both the base S trim and the luxury-focused SL trim. This leaves just two versions: SV and SR. As a result, the Altima SV now becomes the entry-level model, starting at $28,825 including destination charges. This represents a modest price increase compared to previous years, reflecting both inflation and the loss of the more affordable base trim.
The Altima SR now sits at the top of the range, priced at $30,325. While more expensive, it positions itself as the sportier and more premium option in the lineup, appealing to buyers who want a midsize sedan with a bit more attitude and equipment.
Sportier Focus with the SR Trim
The SR trim brings several visual and functional upgrades designed to give the Altima a more aggressive personality. These include 19-inch alloy wheels, paddle shifters, sport exhaust finishers, and a sport-tuned suspension. Nissan has also made the large 12.3-inch infotainment display standard on the SR, along with wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, wireless charging, and sport seats with contrast stitching.
Optional packages further enhance the SR’s appeal. The SR Premium package adds comfort and technology features such as heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, a Bose nine-speaker sound system, and ProPilot Assist. Meanwhile, the new SR Midnight Edition leans heavily into styling, featuring black exterior accents, dark wheels, a two-tone roof, and blacked-out badges.
Powertrain Remains Unchanged
Mechanically, the 2026 Altima remains familiar. Power comes from Nissan’s 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing 188 horsepower in front-wheel-drive form and slightly less in all-wheel-drive models. The engine is paired exclusively with Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission, and all-wheel drive remains an optional upgrade on both trims.
While this setup won’t excite performance enthusiasts, it continues to prioritize efficiency, comfort, and everyday usability—key traits for the Altima’s traditional customer base.
Sales Struggles and an Uncertain Future
Nissan’s decision to keep the Altima alive is somewhat surprising given its declining sales. The sedan’s volume dropped by 11 percent in 2024 and is down another 12 percent this year. In contrast, the smaller Nissan Sentra—recently refreshed for 2026—has seen a modest increase in sales, suggesting shifting buyer preferences even within Nissan’s own lineup.
Still, the Altima’s survival into 2026 suggests Nissan isn’t quite ready to abandon the midsize sedan market. Whether this extra year is a final farewell or a brief pause before a larger strategy shift remains to be seen.
One Last Chance for a Familiar Nameplate
The 2026 Nissan Altima may not be reinventing the midsize sedan, but it represents Nissan’s willingness to keep a long-running nameplate alive a little longer. With fewer trims, higher prices, and a more focused offering, the Altima is clearly in its twilight years—but for now, it refuses to fade away.
