Nissan Altima Hybrid

The Nissan Altima hybrid is Nissan's only hybrid vehicle. Although Nissan had resisted introducing a hybrid vehicle, the market forced it to offer at least one such model. In an effort to reduce R&D costs, engineers turned to crosstown rival Toyota for help in building this vehicle. As such, this system is very similar to that offered in the Camry hybrid which is certainly a positive thing.

In a comparison between the hybrid versions of the Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, and Saturn Aura (Motor Trend - November 2008), the Altima took top honours. Editors noted that it qualifies for a better tax credit than the Camry and outperforms the Aura.

• Fuel Economy: City 35MPG / Highway 33MPG
• 0 - 60mph: 6.5 seconds
• Displacement: 2.5 liter
• Net Power: 198 hp
• Gas Engine Power: 158 hp
• Electric Motor Power: 40 hp
• Gas Engine Torque: 162 lb.-ft @ 2800 RPM
• Electric Motor Torque: 199 lb.-ft @ 0-1500 rpm
• Tank Size: 20.0 gal
• Voltage: 244.8V
• Drag Coefficient: .31
• Seating: 5
• Passenger Space: 100.7 cubic feet
• Cargo Space: 10.1 cubic feet

Compare the Nissan Altima Hybrid to the non-hybrid version.