The 2022 Nissan Altima stands out in the competitive sedan market, offering a wide array of models and trim levels to cater to diverse needs and preferences. As a flagship sedan in Nissan’s lineup, the 2022 Altima comes packed with advanced technology, engine choices, and drivetrain options, including the sought-after Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. This article dives deep into what makes the 2022 Nissan Altima a compelling choice for sedan buyers in the English-speaking market, focusing on its key features, trim levels, and overall value proposition.
Explore the Extensive Model Range and Trim Levels of the 2022 Altima
Nissan understands that drivers have varied requirements, and the 2022 Altima reflects this with its expansive selection of nine distinct models. Starting from the base S FWD to the premium Platinum AWD, and the sporty SR VC-T FWD, there’s a 2022 Altima configuration for almost every sedan enthusiast.
The trim levels for the 2022 Nissan Altima are thoughtfully designed to offer a progressive step-up in features and luxury:
- S FWD: The entry-level model is far from basic, offering standard Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, and Intelligent Driver Alertness.
- SV FWD & SV AWD: Building upon the S trim, the SV adds 17-inch alloy wheels, NissanConnect with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an 8-way power driver’s seat, and Nissan Safety Shield 360, enhancing both convenience and safety. The AWD option provides added confidence in diverse weather conditions.
- SR FWD & SR AWD: The SR trim injects sportiness with 19-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension (FWD only), and unique styling elements. The Midnight Edition Package is exclusively available for the SR grade (2.5L models), adding a distinctive blacked-out aesthetic. AWD is also available for enhanced traction.
- SL FWD & SL AWD: Moving towards luxury, the SL trim includes ProPILOT Assist, leather-appointed seats, a Bose Premium Sound System, and NissanConnect with Navigation. AWD is again an option for those needing all-weather capability.
- Platinum AWD: As the top-tier trim, the Platinum comes standard with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and boasts features like Intelligent Around View Monitor, a 4-way power passenger seat, and interior accent lighting, offering the ultimate in comfort and technology.
- SR VC-T FWD: This unique model pairs the sporty SR trim with the advanced Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) engine, delivering enhanced performance in a front-wheel-drive configuration.
This broad spectrum of models ensures that buyers can find a 2022 Nissan Altima that perfectly aligns with their specific needs and budget.
Striking Exterior and Premium Interior Design
The 2022 Altima continues to impress with its athletic stance and aerodynamic profile. Its low and wide proportions contribute to a sleek and sophisticated appearance, achieving a drag coefficient of just 0.26, which aids in fuel efficiency and reduces wind noise.
Key exterior design highlights include:
- Expressive V-Motion Grille: A signature Nissan design element, the V-Motion grille is finished in dark chrome, adding a touch of elegance.
- LED Lighting: LED projector headlights with signature Daytime Running Lights and available LED fog lights provide excellent visibility and a modern look.
- Floating Roof and Moonroof: The floating roof design with slim pillars creates a spacious feel, while the available single-panel moonroof enhances the cabin’s openness.
- Midnight Edition Package: For SR models, this package amplifies the sporty appeal with gloss black accents, unique badging, and black 19-inch alloy wheels.
Image: The 2022 Nissan Altima Midnight Edition badge, showcasing the unique blacked-out styling.
Inside, the 2022 Altima offers a near-luxury ambiance. The “gliding wing” instrument panel creates a spacious and horizontal layout, complemented by high-contrast colors and premium materials. Comfort and convenience are paramount, with features like:
- Advanced Drive-Assist Display: An available 7.0-inch screen provides crucial driving information in a clear and customizable format.
- NASA-inspired Zero Gravity Seats: Designed for long-distance comfort, these seats feature dual-density foam and enhanced bolstering for optimal support.
- Available Leather-Appointed Seats: Perforated leather-appointed seat inserts add a touch of luxury to higher trims.
- Remote Engine Start: Available remote engine start with Intelligent Climate Control allows for pre-heating or cooling the cabin for maximum comfort.
- Bose Premium Audio System: An optional 9-speaker Bose system delivers immersive sound quality.
Image: The dashboard of the 2022 Nissan Altima, highlighting the “gliding wing” design and user-friendly interface.
Nissan Intelligent Mobility: Leading the Way in Technology and Safety
The 2022 Nissan Altima is at the forefront of Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility philosophy, incorporating advanced technologies to enhance driving enjoyment and safety.
ProPILOT Assist: This driver-assistance technology is designed to reduce driver workload in single-lane highway driving. ProPILOT Assist can help the vehicle stay centered in its lane and maintain a set speed or distance from the vehicle ahead. It can even bring the vehicle to a complete stop in traffic and resume driving as traffic flows again. ProPILOT Assist is standard on SL and Platinum trims and optional on SV.
Nissan Safety Shield 360: A suite of six advanced safety and driver-assist technologies come standard on SV, SR, SL, and Platinum grades, and optional on S. Safety Shield 360 includes:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: Helps prevent or mitigate frontal collisions.
- Rear Automatic Braking: Can detect stationary objects when backing up and automatically apply the brakes to help avoid a collision.
- Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle starts to drift out of its lane.
- Blind Spot Warning: Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Helps detect approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space.
- High Beam Assist: Automatically switches between high and low beams based on oncoming traffic.
Image: Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist technology in action, showcasing its lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control features.
Further enhancing safety and convenience, the 2022 Altima also offers:
- Intelligent Forward Collision Warning: Monitors the vehicle ahead and can alert the driver to potential frontal collision risks.
- Intelligent Driver Alertness: Monitors driver steering patterns and can provide an audible and visual alert if drowsiness or inattention is detected.
- Traffic Sign Recognition: (Standard on SL and Platinum) Displays detected speed limit information on the Advanced Drive-Assist Display.
- Intelligent Around View Monitor: (Standard on Platinum) Provides a 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the vehicle, aiding in parking and low-speed maneuvering.
Intelligent All-Wheel Drive for Enhanced Confidence
For drivers in regions with challenging weather conditions, the 2022 Nissan Altima offers available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. This system is a first for a Nissan sedan in the U.S. and is available on SV, SR, SL, and standard on Platinum trims, when equipped with the 2.5-liter engine.
The Intelligent AWD system can automatically distribute torque between the front and rear wheels, ranging from 100% front-wheel drive to a 50:50 split, depending on road conditions and driving dynamics. This provides enhanced traction and control in slippery conditions, boosting driver confidence.
Engine Options: Balancing Performance and Efficiency
The 2022 Altima provides a choice of two advanced engines, catering to different performance and efficiency priorities.
2.0-liter VC-Turbo Engine: Available exclusively on the Altima SR FWD, the Variable Compression Turbo (VC-Turbo) engine is a technological marvel. It dynamically adjusts its compression ratio to optimize for either power or fuel efficiency. This engine delivers 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque (on premium fuel), offering V6-like performance with improved fuel economy.
2.5-liter DOHC Inline 4-cylinder Engine: This engine is standard on most 2022 Altima trims and offers a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. It produces 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque in FWD configuration (slightly less in AWD). Nissan has significantly refined this engine for the 2022 Altima, improving noise, vibration, and harshness levels, while also enhancing fuel economy and reducing emissions.
Both engines are paired with Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), known for its smooth and efficient operation. Paddle shifters are available on the Altima SR grade for a more engaging driving experience.
Fuel economy for the 2022 Nissan Altima is competitive, with the 2.5-liter FWD models achieving up to 32 mpg combined, and the VC-Turbo offering 29 mpg combined. Actual mileage may vary based on driving conditions.
Dynamic Performance and Chassis Control
The 2022 Altima is engineered to provide a comfortable and engaging driving experience. All models feature an independent front and rear suspension, with monotube rear shocks that enhance responsiveness without compromising ride comfort.
The steering system uses a dual-pinion electric power steering design, providing light steering at low speeds and increased feedback at higher speeds. The available Integrated Dynamics Module further enhances handling with Active Ride Control and Intelligent Trace Control, systems also found in Nissan’s flagship Maxima sedan. The Altima SR FWD model features unique suspension and chassis tuning for a sportier driving feel.
Conclusion: The 2022 Nissan Altima – A Versatile and Tech-Forward Sedan
The 2022 Nissan Altima successfully combines a stylish design, a wide range of models and trims, advanced technology, and efficient engine options. Whether you prioritize fuel economy, sporty performance, all-weather capability, or luxurious features, the 2022 Altima lineup has a model to meet your needs. Its commitment to Nissan Intelligent Mobility and comprehensive safety features further solidify its position as a top contender in the mid-size sedan segment. For those seeking a well-rounded, technologically advanced, and versatile sedan, the 2022 Nissan Altima is definitely worth considering.
