The Altima offers a choice of a redesigned 2.5-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine or 3.5-liter V6. The 2.5-liter QR25 engine has been redesigned to be lighter and more efficient. It now includes variable valve timing on both exhaust and intake camshafts, and the new intake system opens the valves at a higher rpm to help keep the torque curve flat. Featuring technology such as a new thermoplastic resin intake manifold, this engine simultaneously produced more power despite being lighter. Horsepower has increased by seven to the estimated 182 hp (136 kW) from 175 hp, while torque remains the same at 180 lb-ft (244 N·m).

The award-winning VQ35DE 3.5-liter V6 remains rated at 270 hp (2012 kW) and 258 lb-ft (350 N·m) of torque. (Power and torque levels are estimates.)

Both engines are matched with a next-generation Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). For this next-generation design, 70% of the parts have been redesigned, which, along with a downsized oil pump, lower oil level and low viscosity oil results in up to 40% reduction in internal friction (versus the previous design).

The new CVT also features expanded gear ratio coverage, with a lower 1^st gear and higher ratio overdrive. New control logic and expanded gear ratio coverage help reduce noise and fuel consumption while improving drivability and responsiveness.

The new intelligent CVT logic also includes a Lift Foot Hold function that holds the gear ratio if the accelerator pedal is momentarily released and then reapplied, such as when merging onto a freeway; and a Brake Downshift function that “downshifts” the transmission when braking is applied before entering a corner, so re-acceleration is enhanced when exiting the corner because the CVT is already in a lower gear ratio.

All V6-equipped 2013 Altima models utilize a chain drive (versus belt on 4-cylinder models) and standard paddle shifters that help mimic a step transmission (with seven simulated gear levels) when desired.

Along with greatly enhanced driver feel, the result of the new CVT redesign is an estimated 15%+ improvement in fuel economy with the 4-cylinder engine and a 10% improvement with the V6 engine (versus 2012 Altima models).

Fuel economy for the V6-equipped model is expected to be 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, 25 mpg combined (10.7, 7.8 and 9.4 L/100 km, respectively).

New noise absorption materials with a 30% increase in absorption capability (versus previous Altima) are used throughout the cabin, including areas such as the roof trim, instrument panel and floor mats.

The 2013 Altima offers a redefined multi-link rear suspension benchmarked to leading European sports sedans. The design features high lateral suspension stiffness, improved toe angle control (with the addition of new connect bushings) and improved camber angle control under load (for increased tire contact with the road when cornering) versus the previous generation Altima.

The suspension also utilizes a new shock absorber design by ZF SACHS, similar to that used on high-end luxury sedans, to deliver improved body control and response, while simultaneously delivering a comfortable ride. The 2013 Altima’s front suspension uses an independent front strut design. Stabilizer bars are utilized front and rear.

Also used for the first time on a Nissan vehicle is a new Active Understeer Control system, which utilizes intelligent control logic and high-response brake actuators to brake the inside front wheels during cornering (as required) to increase yaw-moment. Using the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC)/Traction Control System (TCS) as its base, Active Understeer Control is almost undetectable when it operates. It is designed primarily for everyday operation rather than emergency evasive maneuvers.

Responsive steering is provided by a new Electronic Hydraulic Power-Assisted Steering (EHPS) system that preserves the feel of hydraulic steering rack while offering the efficiencies of an electric power steering set-up. The hydraulic assist allows a greater reduction ratio than with gears, while the small electric motor, which runs directly off the 12-volt power supply (no converter) does not need to be mounted directly on the steering rack since a large reduction ratio is obtained.

The new Altima features the Easy Fill Tire Alert function, first introduced on the Nissan Quest, for the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). When filling the tires with air, the hazard lamps flash to let the operator know the system is working. When the correct pressure is reached, a beep of the horn provides notification. Unlike many competitive vehicles, Altima’s individual tire pressure monitoring and readout system provides the tire pressure at each individual location and automatically adjusts positions when the tires are rotated during service. The information is integrated into the Advanced Drive-Assist Display.

The new Altima also offers three new available safety features, usually reserved for more expensive vehicles, due in part to a redesigned, next-generation RearView Monitor camera.: Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Moving Object Detection (MOD). The small rearview camera, mounted in the Altima’s license plate finisher, offers an expanded rear view, so no extra sensors are needed for the BSW, LDW or MOD systems.

For Blind Spot Warning, when another vehicle is in a blind spot area, an indicator appears inside the door next to the side mirror and on the Advanced Drive-Assist Display. If the turn signal is activated, indicating the driver’s desire to change lanes, the warning light flashes and a chime sounds an audible alert.

The Lane Departure Warning system uses the rearview camera to constantly monitor lane markings and alerts the driver if the vehicle crosses these markers. If Altima’s next-generation RearView Monitor detects something moving behind the vehicle while in reverse, such as other vehicles, Moving Object Detection warns the driver with visual cues.