Altima 3.5SL - Exceeding Expectations

As an ex-Lexus and Toyota customer, now that Toyota’s bullet-proof reliability is showing holes in the Kevlar, I recently purchased a loaded Altima 3.5SL. I just couldn't warm up to the somewhat quirky Maxima.

The 3.5SL is probably the finest car I’ve had at any price.

The drive train is perfectly matched with the transmission and the handling and braking dynamics are superb. The ride in the roomy SL is very smooth while being well damped, conveying a sense of confidence and control. Interior furnishings may not initially appear to be as plush as those found in Toyotas or Hondas, but are comfortable, well-assembled and made of soft but durable, high quality materials that won’t scratch easily, unlike those found in the 2007 Camry. The unusual dashboard and instrumentation design and illumination are pleasingly different, adding to the sporty but luxurious overtone that this 3.5SL exudes. Controls are well placed and operate with a feeling of quality and precision. The 3.5SL is loaded with a surprising number of useful amenities and upgrades that raise the status of this car into entry-level luxury territory.

On the road, the 3.5SL is quietly confident. While the Altima has been criticized for its road noise, I have found it to ride quieter and smoother than the new Avalon, even with the low-spec OEM Continentals as standard attire. Perhaps Nissan have paid attention in the noise attenuation department, because this 3.5SL glides along with the smoothness and comportment of a luxury car. Everything is tightly constructed with no rattles or strange noises, and the body feels as tight as a tank. The proven VQ engine is extremely smooth, sweet and willing and can propel you well into illegal velocities, before you can switch CD tracks in the surprisingly powerful and authentic sounding Bose sound system. The drive-by-wire throttle control system operates harmoniously and without hesitation. Engine and transmission management systems communicate seamlessly as they should – something other manufacturers have yet to master.

The 3.5SL is an absolute blast to drive - I look forward to every trip and make every excuse to take it for a run. It is like a happy puppy that loves to frolic. Whether in traffic or on the open road, the 3.5SL is sweet, tractable, controllable and like a fighter-jet, can instantly break the sound barrier on demand. This car feels as if you are wearing it as opposed to driving it. It responds intuitively - Nissan has paid obvious attention to steering and handling dynamics. All this wrapped up in one of the most attractive and svelte exteriors with four doors on the market today.

Before you plunk down thousands more for a V6 Toyota, you owe it to yourself to take a long test-drive in a 3.5 equipped Altima. You may well discover that this underrated Altima 3.5SL is one of the industries' quiet secrets.

Unlike most products, this car delivers far more than it promises. Grab one now in case Nissan spoils something with the upcoming 2007 model!