Buying a used Nissan Altima is a sensible choice. And as you shop for one, you’ll see that the 2019 Altima is one that’s hard to pass up. Nissan completely redesigned the Altima for 2019 to some fanfare. Some critics have raved about this model, while others say it’s too mundane. 

Driving the 2019 Nissan Altima 

The base 2019 Altima comes standard with a 188-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder. This engine is engaging and has an EPA rating of 32 mpg. If it’s more power you crave, you’ll want to consider upper-level models with the turbocharged 248-hp four-cylinder. 

No matter which engine you pick, a continuously variable automatic is standard. The base one is available with front-wheel-drive or all-wheel drive, a first for the Altima. Unfortunately, AWD isn’t available with the turbo-four. 

Reviewers at Consumer Reports commended the 2019 Altima for its improved fuel efficiency and acceleration. The team also said that the Altima has one of the best CVT’s they have ever tested. But at the same time, CR reviewers say that this Nissan is a “jack-of-all-trades, master of none.” While the Altima does a few things well, its rivals do a bit more to stand out.

“[The] Altima falls behind its rivals in several areas. Its vague steering feels disconnected through corners, leaving the Altima without the eagerness of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, and quite short of the precision of a Mazda6.”

Consumer Reports (2019)

On the inside 

The 2019 Altima shines a little brighter on the inside. This five-seater is well-insulated, so excess road noise isn’t a problem. Nissan also added nicer trimmings to this sedan that give it a grander feel. Most models will have the standard cloth upholstery, while the upper-level trims have leather seats.

This Nissan also gets points for its in-car tech. All Altimas come with an 8-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. Additionally, it comes with a few advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking and forward-collision warning. You may want to shop models with more functionality, including Nissan’s ProPilot system, which adds adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. 

2019 Nissan Altima problems 

Overall, the 2019 Altima has proved to be a reliable car with no significant amount of issues at this point. CR gave this model a perfect score for predicted reliability based on its member survey. Only two members voiced complaints in the survey. One owner said that there was a short in the speakers; another had a noise complaint with the Altima’s suspension. Both owners said the dealer was able to fix the issues quickly.

It’s also important to note here that there are four recalls associated with the 2019 Altima. Two relate to the Altima’s fuel system; the others for its brake lights and backup camera. Make sure your dealer properly these. 

Owner satisfaction 

Despite some lackluster reviews, owners have been pleased with the 2019 Nissan Altima. According to CR, 86 percent of owners would repurchase the Altima. The average price for a used 2019 Altima ranges between $17,750 and $26,250.