The 2021 Nissan Altima stands out with its expressive design, a welcoming interior, and a choice of powertrains, including Nissan’s groundbreaking variable compression turbo engine. Equipped with available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and ProPILOT Assist, the Altima delivers a driving experience that is both confident and enjoyable. The Nissan Safety Shield® 360 is available across all five trim levels, enhancing safety and peace of mind. Now available at Nissan dealerships nationwide, the 2021 Nissan Altima starts at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $24,300.
For the 2021 model year, Nissan has streamlined the Altima lineup, positioning the SR trim above the SV. This aligns the Altima’s trim order—S, SV, SR, SL, and Platinum—with other models in the 2021 Nissan sedan family. A new optional SV Premium Package adds a moonroof, heated front seats, and Intelligent Lane Intervention to the SV trim, further enhancing its value and appeal.
Entering its third year since a comprehensive redesign, the 2021 Nissan Altima offers a variety of choices to suit different needs and preferences. Customers can select from five well-equipped trim levels, opt for front-wheel drive or Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, and choose between two advanced engines. One of these engines is the innovative 2.0-liter VC-Turbo inline 4-cylinder, known for its balance of performance and efficiency.
Below is the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for each 2021 Nissan Altima Sedan configuration:
| Model | Engine/Drive | MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Altima S | 2.5-liter / FWD | $24,300 |
| Altima SV | 2.5-liter / FWD | $25,400 |
| Altima SR | 2.5-liter / FWD | $26,200 |
| Altima SL | 2.5-liter / FWD | $29,990 |
| Altima SV | 2.5-liter / AWD | $26,800 |
| Altima SR | 2.5-liter / AWD | $27,600 |
| Altima SL | 2.5-liter / AWD | $31,390 |
| Altima Platinum | 2.5-liter / AWD | $34,100 |
| Altima SR VC-Turbo | 2.0-liter VC-Turbo / FWD | $30,650 |
Destination and Handling: $925
Key Features and Technologies of the 2021 Nissan Altima
The 2021 Nissan Altima is designed to provide a confident and comfortable driving experience, complemented by a range of advanced safety and convenience features. Standard features across all grades include Automatic Emergency Braking, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, and Intelligent Driver Alertness.
Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies are prominently featured in the Altima, including available ProPILOT Assist. This system is a “hands-on” driving aid for highway use, designed to reduce driver fatigue by assisting with acceleration, steering, and braking under certain conditions. Available Safety Shield® 360 further enhances safety with features like Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Rear Automatic Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and High Beam Assist. The Intelligent Around View® Monitor is standard on the top-tier Altima Platinum trim.
Engine Options: Balancing Power and Efficiency
The 2021 Altima offers two engine choices to cater to different driving preferences. The standard 2.5-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder direct injection engine delivers 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque in front-wheel drive configurations. For drivers seeking more power, the available 2.0-liter VC-Turbo inline 4-cylinder engine produces 236 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. This VC-Turbo engine provides performance comparable to a V6 while maintaining 4-cylinder fuel efficiency and is available on the Altima SR VC-Turbo front-wheel drive model. Both engines are paired with a smooth and responsive next-generation Xtronic transmission.
Intelligent All-Wheel Drive for Enhanced Confidence
Beyond the standard front-wheel drive, the 2021 Altima offers the option of Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. This system is standard on the Altima Platinum and available on SV, SR, and SL trims equipped with the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. The Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system dynamically adjusts torque distribution between the front and rear wheels, ranging from 100% front-wheel drive to a 50:50 front-to-rear split, adapting to changing road and driving conditions to provide optimal traction and control.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the 2021 Altima is designed for comfort and convenience. Standard features include a power driver’s seat, while available upgrades include a Bose® Premium Audio system with nine speakers for an enhanced audio experience. The Altima also offers seamless smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, ensuring drivers stay connected on the go.
For complete details on the 2021 Nissan Altima and the entire Nissan lineup, please visit NissanNews.com. Further information about Nissan’s products, services, and commitment to sustainable mobility can be found at nissanusa.com.
