The introduction of the 2007 Nissan Altima signaled a turning point for both hybrid technology and comfort in a reasonably-priced hybrid vehicle. There was a time–not long ago–when buying a fuel efficient vehicle use to mean sacrificing elements of both luxury and style, but Nissan is set to change all that with its new flagship hybrid sedan.
The 2007 Altima uses a Nissan “synergy” hybrid drive system that provides an impressive 42 MPG in city driving and an estimated 36 on the highway. This makes the Altima easily one of the most efficient (and economical) hybrid vehicles available. But hold on a minute; it’s not “just” a green vehicle…
The Altima seats five adult passengers comfortably, offers advanced stability and traction control, and state of the art security and comfort features like side air bags, two independent climate control systems, keyless electronic entry, one-button ignition, and other extras that you might not expect on an affordable mid-sized hybrid.
The Altima generates its electric power while driving, so (thankfully) there’s no need to locate and outlet. Electric energy is stored in a nickel hydride battery for maximum efficiency. On the downside, the massive battery array reduces truck space by over 9 cubic feet. Even with this limitation, the 2007 Altima never feels cramped, and can stow a respectable amount of gear safely.
As for power, Nissan has equipped the 2007 Altima with a 2.5 liter gas engine paired with a 148 kilowatt electric motor. The duo produce a very respectable 198 horsepower, with acceleration that sometimes feels more like a V6 than a humble hybrid 4-cylinder. The Altima also feature the largest gas tank of any US market hybrid, ensuring those trips to the pump will be even more infrequent.
With impressive horsepower, and a solid hybrid pedigree, the 2007 Altima competes favorably along side the competition; specifically, Toyota and Honda hybrid vehicles. Even more impressive is the comfortable, almost luxury interior design. Front and rear legroom are ample (your taller friends will thank you!), and the interior has a “roominess” to it that makes for a comfortable ride overall.
Suggested retail prices are in the 25K range, making the Altima hybrid an affordable choice to enter the hybrid market. And with current hybrid tax incentives, you’ll save even more on this respectable mid sized gas-hater.
Available options are plentiful, and include a GPS navigation system, XM Radio (with NavTraffic), premium leather seats, power-adjustable driver’s seat, electric moon-roof, spoiler packages and a premium Bose sound system, including MP3 player inputs (bring your iPod).
Whether you are an environmentalist, or just in the market for an economical mid-priced vehicle, the 2007 Nissan Altima is sure to charm you. Its impressive and ergonomic interior styling make it one of the more comfortable mid-sized cars available–in any class; while the detailed exterior design continues Nissan’s tradition of stylish and progressive engineering.
If you’re looking for a “best of all possible worlds” vehicle, you could certainly do a lot worse than the Altima. Overall, the 2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid is one “green” vehicle that doesn’t comprise on style, safety or interior comfort.
Related Web Directory Categories:
