Just when it looked like Nissan was ready to move on, the Altima is officially sticking around for the 2026 model year. Not long ago, the expectation was that 2025 would be its final run as Nissan reshaped its shrinking sedan lineup, but the company has now released pricing and details that confirm the midsize sedan will live on a little longer.
For 2026, the Altima mostly carries over with the same exterior styling, but the trim strategy gets simplified. The S and SL trims are gone, leaving just the SV and SR. Nissan is also offering the SR with a new Midnight Edition package that brings blacked-out exterior touches like dark trim, black badges, black 19-inch wheels, and a black roof, along with upgrades such as dual-zone automatic climate control and a sunroof.
The SR also gets the biggest tech improvement, adding a new standard 12.3-inch touchscreen and a wireless charging pad. Under the hood, the formula stays familiar with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a CVT automatic. Output is rated at 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque in front-wheel-drive form, or 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft with all-wheel drive. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that previously offered 248 horsepower remains off the table.
Pricing is still one of the Altima’s strongest arguments. The 2026 Altima SV starts at $28,825, while the SR comes in at $30,325, and all-wheel drive adds $1,400 to either trim. Nissan hasn’t shared an exact on-sale date yet, but the 2026 Altima is expected to begin arriving at dealerships early next year.
Mike Floyd is a finance executive by trade and a car enthusiast at heart. As a CFO with a keen eye for detail and strategy, Mike brings his analytical mindset to the automotive world, uncovering fresh insights and unique perspectives that go beyond the surface. His passion for cars—especially his favorite, the Porsche 911, fuels his contributions to Automotive Addicts, where he blends a love for performance and design with his professional precision. Whether he’s breaking down industry trends or spotlighting emerging innovations, Mike helps keep the site both sharp and forward-thinking.
