Nissan have made big changes to the Altima's drivetrain, offering all-wheel drive for the first time and replacing both engines in the car's lineup. The new base engine is a 2.5L 4-cylinder, like the one it replaces. However, the new engine makes more horsepower (now up to 188) while also reducing noise, vibration and harshness over the one it replaces. Power is sent to either the front wheels or to all-four wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT.) The optional engine in years past was a V6, but Nissan have opted instead to replace it with a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, offering better fuel economy while making similar power. Once again, a CVT is used to send power to the front wheels, though all-wheel drive is not offered with the turbocharged engine.

The Nissan Altima is offered in several different trims: S, SR, SV, and SL make up the main trim levels. The base S version is still relatively well equipped, even if it doesn't come with all of the driver assistance technology available on some of the more expensive models.

Standard features on the S include cruise control, automatic headlights, push-button start, a 7-inch color touchscreen display, a Siri Eyes Free mode, Bluetooth, a USB port, speed sensitive volume controls, an intelligent forward collision warning system, a rearview camera, a hill start assist system and an automatic emergency braking system.

The SR trim adds a dose of sportiness by including 19-inch wheels, a sport tuned suspension, paddle shifters and LED headlights. The new Midnight Edition Package is available for the SR trim and includes LED fog lights, heated front seats, a single panel moonroof, black accents for the grille, spoiler and wheels, and headed side mirrors with LED turn signals.

Stepping up to the SL trim adds a navigation system, SiriusXM Satellite radio and a bigger Bose stereo featuring 9-speakers. In addition, the SL trim has leather lined seating surfaces and a power adjustable front passenger seat.

Safety features on all trims include lane departure warnings, forward collision mitigation, pedestrian detection prevention and a driver attention alert. All trims also have a blind spot warning system, rear collision mitigation and parking sensors.