2022 Nissan Altima: Fuel-Efficient Midsize Sedan with Strong Resale Value

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Reliability: Above-average (Nissan midsize)
Fuel Economy: 28 city / 37 highway MPG
Best For: Commuters prioritizing efficiency and trunk space

Market Overview: The Altima’s Engine Choices

The 2022 Nissan Altima offers a 2.5-liter four-cylinder (188 hp) on most trims and a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo (248 hp) on the SR, front-wheel drive only. There is no hybrid.

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The Good: Efficiency and Space

The 2022 Altima offers 15.4 cubic feet of trunk space. Fuel economy differs by engine; check the EPA rating for the exact trim. NHTSA lists several recalls for 2019–2021 Altimas, including a 2023 rearview camera recall (23V628000) and a 2025 VC-Turbo engine recall (25V437000) covering 2019–2020 models. Check each VIN at nhtsa.gov.

The Risks: Software Issues and Competitive Pressure

Ask the dealer whether any infotainment software update has been applied to the car. Competitive pressure from Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic has tightened pricing gaps.

Evaluation Framework

Choose based on ownership duration and annual mileage. Request complete service history confirming dealership maintenance intervals. Test drive includes smooth acceleration at multiple speeds. Visit nhtsa.gov to confirm all recalls have been completed. Calculate true ownership cost for the engine you are considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is the VC-Turbo worth the premium over the 2.5-liter?

The VC-Turbo costs more and requires premium fuel, and it is available only on the SR with front-wheel drive. Most commuters will be well served by the 2.5-liter.

Q2: What mileage is typical in the used market?

Most 2022 Altimas have 20,000–45,000 miles. Anything under 15,000 miles is unusually low, potentially indicating recent rental or fleet use.

Q3: How does it compare to Toyota Corolla?

Corolla is more conservative and reliable. Altima is slightly sportier, more affordable used, and offers more cargo space.

Q4: Are there known issues?

Occasional infotainment lag (ask the dealer whether any software update has been applied). Some 2019 models have noise bulletins for a creak or pop and a rear clunk; ask the dealer which apply to the VIN.

Q5: 2.5-liter or VC-Turbo for commuting?

The 2.5-liter is sufficient for most commuting. Choose the VC-Turbo for stronger acceleration, and factor in premium fuel costs.

Data & Methodology

All updated June 2026.

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Browse current used Nissan Altima listings on Edmunds. Trading or selling your current vehicle may change the budget available for this choice, so check its value on Edmunds before you finalize your comparison.

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