Fast Stats
	Seats		5
	MSRP from		$17,189
	Engine		2.5L I4  3.5L V6
	Horsepower		175 @ 6000  245 @ 5800
	Transmission		4-speed auto  5-speed manual
	MPG: City/Hwy		I4 auto: 23 / 29  I4 man: 23 / 29  V6 auto: 19 / 26  V6 man: 21 / 26

2003 Nissan Altima

After a complete redesign in 2002, the indisputably popular Nissan Altima returns in 2003 with a new-look interior that will no doubt keep it on the path to awards. Considered one of the top midsize sedans, it drives smoothly and comfortably, looks great, and offers a plethora of features for the money. Its 20-gallon fuel tank is the largest in its class.

Available Models
The 2003 Nissan Altima is available in 4 models: the 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SL, and 3.5 SE. All are 4-door sedans, and all except the 2.5 SL come with either manual or automatic transmission. Several options packages are offered, including the Sport Package, the exciting new Sport Plus Package, the Leather Package, and the new Leather Sport Package, all available on the 3.5 SE.

Interior Features
Inside, the 2003 Nissan Altima boasts titanium-colored trim. Standard features on all models include a height-adjustable center armrest, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, a tachometer, and a split folding rear seat. The 2.5 S, 2.5 SL, and 3.5 SE also feature air conditioning, remote keyless entry, and cruise control. The 2.5 SL goes even further, offering the consumer leather upholstery, faux wood interior trim, heated front seats, and a Bose AM/FM radio with in-dash 6-disc CD changer.

Options for interior features are particularly geared to beautifying the 3.5 SE. The Leather Package provides this model with leather upholstery and automatic climate control, while the Premium Leather Package includes woodgrain interior trim.

Exterior Features
The 2.5 SL and 3.5 SE are equipped with automatic headlights and alloy wheels, and the 3.5 SE also has fog lights as a standard feature. The SE's Sport Package provides a rear spoiler and a power sunroof, while the new Leather Sport Package equips the SE with xenon lights.

Performance
The 2.5, 2.5 S, and 2.5 SL models contain a 2.5-litre 16-valve 4-cylinder engine that gives 175 hp at 6000 rpm, and 180 lbs-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The 2.5 and 2.5 S are available in either 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 2.5 SL comes with 4-speed automatic transmission only. The 3.5 SE is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, which provides 240 hp at 5800 rpm, and 246 lbs-ft of torque at 3600 rpm. The 3.5 SE is available in either 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. This model is capable of 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds, making it one of the most powerful in its class.

Safety and Security
Standard safety and security features on all models include 4-wheel disc brakes, dual front airbags, and a theft-deterrent system. Front side airbags, curtain side airbags, and anti-lock brakes are available as options on all models except the 2.5. The 2.5 SL and the automatic versions of the 2.5 S and the 3.5 SE offer optional traction control as well.