2009 Nissan Altima Coupe Review
The Nissan Altima is one of the hallmarks of the automaker and is designed to compete with the Honda Accord, the Mitsubishi Galant, Saturn AURA, Toyota Camry and Hyundai Sonata. The 2009 model year sees very few changes to the Altima lineup, with only a few minor cosmetic upgrades occurring. The 2009 Nissan Altima coupe is available as a 2.5 model or a 3.5 model; each designation is made by the engine used in that particular model.
2.5 models make use of a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that puts out 175 hp, mated to a CVT on the SL model. The 3.5 model uses a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that puts out 270 hp, and is mated to a CVT (on the base model) or a 5-speed manual transmission on the upgraded trim levels.
The Nissan Altima incorporates several features, including ABS, a well-developed airbag system and more. The navigation system and rearview camera are optional equipment, as is the leather upholstery and hands free cell phone system.
2009 Nissan Altima Coupe Performance
The 2009 Nissan Altima coupe enjoys excellent performance, no matter what engine is chosen. 4-cylinder engines and CVT transmissions provide excellent acceleration (though not brute power), as well as good highway passing performance. The V6 engine kicks up the performance quite a bit, providing strength and power in all driving situations. The CVT performs quite well in all situations, though the manual transmission is a better option for those who want a sportier feel.
Fuel economy is a high point for the Nissan Altima, with an average of 19 mpg for in-city driving and 24 mpg for highway driving with the V-6 engine. The 4-cylinder engine increases fuel economy by a bit as well. The ride quality in the coupe is also excellent; it features sport tuning that provides a very firm ride over all types of surfaces.
One area in which the 2009 Nissan Altima coupe seems to be lacking is in handling. While the vehicle responds well to input, the steering is very light and does not provide much "feel" of the road surface. Braking is decent, though by no means super powerful. The Altima is not particularly quiet during driving, though the 4-cylinder engine is considerably more ragged sounding than the V6 is. Wind noise and tire noise are present at all speeds, though they are not overly powerful.
2009 Nissan Altima Coupe Interior
The best word to describe the interior of the Altima is "pleasant." While it is not luxurious, it certainly doesn't feel extremely cheap, either. Nissan thankfully provided a nice blend of soft, padded surfaces and hard plastics in the interior, as well as nice texturing on the fabrics and the plastics used. All gauges are large and easy to read, as well as being located in logical locations. Without the navigation system, audio and climate controls are simple. With the addition of the navigation system, the audio and climate controls become quite complicated.
The front seats offer decent legroom and headroom, though taller drivers may feel a bit pinched even with the seats all the way back. The seats provide excellent support for the lower back and the thighs, making them excellent for long or short drives. One problem found only in the coupe is the reduced rear visibility, due to very thick roof support pillars.
The rear seat is comfortable, though tall passengers will wish for more room in all directions. Children are the best occupants for the rear seats, though adults can make do if they must. For cargo room, the Altima offers a very small storage area. The trunk is shallow, as well as narrow, though the trunk hinges do not impinge on cargo room. Interior storage is decent, though by no means exceptional.
2009 Nissan Altima Safety Features
The 2009 Nissan Altima offers quite a few safety features for your protection. You will find an emergency interior trunk release, as well as a tire pressure monitor, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, active front head restraints, dual front airbags, side curtain airbags, and an antitheft system onboard. An antiskid system is optional with the addition of the Technology or Sport Package.
Summary
The 2009 Nissan Altima coupe is an excellent vehicle for power and performance on the road. While the rear seats may lack space and the trunk is poorly designed, the vehicle's overall benefits far outweigh any such concerns. This vehicle is the perfect choice for those seeking a daily driver whether for work or school.