The 2020 Nissan Altima marked the second year of its sixth generation, continuing to redefine the mid-size sedan segment with a compelling blend of innovative technology, dynamic performance, and sophisticated design. Building upon the accolades of its debut year, the 2020 Altima solidified its position as a leader, offering features rarely found in its class, such as available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD), ProPILOT Assist, and Nissan Safety Shield 360. This model year saw further enhancements, reinforcing the Altima’s commitment to providing both driver and passenger with an exceptional automotive experience.
Cutting-Edge Technology for a Confident Drive
Nissan’s dedication to Intelligent Mobility shines brightly in the 2020 Altima, spearheaded by the advanced ProPILOT Assist system. This technology sets the Altima apart in its class, taking the edge off mundane driving tasks, especially on highways. ProPILOT Assist acts as a co-pilot, intelligently managing acceleration, steering, and braking inputs under specific conditions, like single-lane highway driving.
This system employs a suite of forward-facing camera, radar, and sensors working in concert with an electronic control module. It adeptly helps keep the Altima centered within its lane and maintains a driver-set speed or a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. Crucially, ProPILOT Assist can even bring the Altima to a complete stop and hold it in place during stop-and-go traffic, significantly reducing driver fatigue. This feature comes standard on the SV, SL, and Platinum trims, making advanced driving assistance accessible to a wide range of Altima buyers.
Complementing ProPILOT Assist is Nissan Safety Shield 360, a comprehensive suite of safety technologies providing all-around protection. This system includes Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking (RAB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and High Beam Assist (HBA). For 2020, Nissan made Safety Shield 360 standard on the SR trim and introduced the Driver Assist Package for the base S trim, ensuring that these vital safety features are available across the entire Altima lineup, demonstrating Nissan’s commitment to passenger security.
Beyond these headline technologies, the 2020 Altima is equipped with a range of standard safety and convenience features, including Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (I-FCW), and Intelligent Driver Alertness (I-DA) on all grades. Higher trims like SL and Platinum benefit from Traffic Sign Recognition, which displays the latest detected speed limit on the driver’s information screen. The Platinum trim further enhances visibility and parking ease with the Intelligent Around View Monitor (I-AVM), providing a 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings.
Performance Options: AWD and Innovative Engines
Understanding the diverse needs of drivers, Nissan offered Intelligent All-Wheel Drive on the 2020 Altima, a first for a Nissan sedan in the US market. This available AWD system provides enhanced confidence and control in various weather conditions and road surfaces. Available on all trims equipped with the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, the system intelligently distributes torque between the front and rear wheels, ranging from 100% front-wheel drive to a 50:50 split, optimizing traction based on driving dynamics and road conditions. This system works in conjunction with brake limited slip differential and Hill Start Assist to ensure confident starts and handling in challenging situations.
Under the hood, the 2020 Altima offered a choice of two advanced engines. The groundbreaking 2.0-liter Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) engine stood out as a marvel of engineering. Replacing the previous generation’s V6, this inline-4 VC-Turbo delivers V6-like performance with the fuel efficiency of a 4-cylinder. The VC-Turbo engine dynamically adjusts its compression ratio between 8:1 for high performance and 14:1 for maximum efficiency. This continuous adjustment is achieved through an advanced multi-link system that alters piston reach, optimizing engine characteristics on the fly. The result is an engine that produces 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque (on premium fuel) while being more compact than the outgoing V6. Fuel economy for the VC-Turbo is impressive, achieving an EPA-estimated 29 mpg combined.
The standard engine for the 2020 Altima was an enhanced 2.5-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder direct injection engine. This engine, significantly redesigned for the Altima’s sixth generation, produces 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque in front-wheel-drive configuration (slightly less in AWD). Beyond the increased power and torque compared to its predecessor, this engine offers improvements in noise, vibration, and harshness, along with enhanced fuel economy. EPA fuel economy ratings reach as high as 32 mpg combined for front-wheel-drive models, making it a highly efficient choice for daily driving.
Both engine options in the 2020 Nissan Altima were paired with a standard Xtronic transmission, known for its smooth and efficient operation. For a more engaging driving experience, paddle shifters were available on the Altima SR trim.
Dynamic Design and Premium Interior
The 2020 Altima boasts a sporty and sophisticated exterior design. Lower, wider, and more dynamically styled than previous generations, the Altima presents a sleek and modern silhouette. This athletic stance is achieved through revised platform packaging and the use of low-profile engines. Design elements like the expressive V-motion grille with a dark chrome finish, LED projector headlights, and a floating roof design contribute to its distinctive and premium appearance.
Inside, the Altima’s cabin provides a near-luxury ambiance with a focus on comfort and technology. The “gliding wing” instrument panel creates a spacious and horizontal feel, while high-contrast colors and quality materials enhance the overall refinement. Comfort features include NASA-inspired Zero Gravity seats, designed for exceptional support and reduced fatigue on long drives. Available amenities like perforated leather-appointed seats, remote engine start, and an 8-way power driver’s seat with memory further elevate the driving experience.
Connectivity and infotainment are well addressed in the 2020 Altima. An 8-inch multi-touch color display is standard, featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Altima also includes Bluetooth connectivity, hands-free text messaging assistant, and Siri Eyes Free voice recognition. For audiophiles, a Bose Premium Audio system with nine speakers is available, providing immersive sound quality. NissanConnect Services powered by SiriusXM adds further convenience with remote access features via smartphone or smartwatch, including remote start/stop, door lock/unlock, and more.
Trim Levels and Feature Highlights
The 2020 Nissan Altima was offered in five trim levels: S, SR, SV, SL, and Platinum, allowing buyers to choose a model that best fit their needs and preferences. All trims came standard with the 2.5-liter engine, with AWD available across the range. The SR and Platinum trims also offered the option of the 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine (front-wheel drive only).
- Altima S: The base trim is well-equipped with Automatic Emergency Braking, Intelligent Driver Alertness, NissanConnect with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and more.
- Altima SR: Adds sporty styling elements like 19-inch alloy wheels, sport suspension (FWD), sport seats, paddle shifters, and Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard.
- Altima SV: Enhances comfort and convenience with a moonroof, LED fog lights, heated front seats and steering wheel, ProPILOT Assist, and additional safety features.
- Altima SL: Steps up the luxury with leather-appointed seats, Bose Premium Sound System, NissanConnect with Navigation, and Traffic Sign Recognition.
- Altima Platinum: The top-of-the-line trim includes Intelligent Around View Monitor, interior accent lighting, and driver memory functions for seat and mirrors.
Conclusion: A Well-Rounded and Tech-Forward Sedan
The 2020 Nissan Altima successfully continued its mission to redefine the mid-size sedan. With its available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, advanced ProPILOT Assist and Safety Shield 360 technologies, and a choice of efficient and powerful engines, the Altima offered a compelling package for drivers seeking a blend of innovation, performance, and style. Whether prioritizing safety, technology, fuel efficiency, or driving enjoyment, the 2020 Nissan Altima presented a strong and versatile option in a competitive segment.
