The all-new, third generation 2002 Altima represents a total revision and rethinking of Nissan's midsize sedan - it brings a level of style and performance that currently does not exist in its class. With a choice of a 240-horsepower 3.5-litre V6 (the first time a V6 is available in Altima) or 180-horsepower 2.5-litre 4-cylinder, 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission and an all-new 4-wheel independent suspension, Altima offers spirit with state-of-the-art technology.

An aggressive new exterior design with increases in all major dimensions and a driver-oriented interior with myriad convenience and luxury features set Altima apart in the highly competitive sedan marketplace.

The 2002 Altima is scheduled to go on sale in September 2001 at Nissan dealers nationwide. Highlights of the 2002 Altima include:

Body

• All-new body with dynamic and sporty forms and wheels pushed out to the corners for an aggressive look

• All major dimensions increased for improved interior and trunk space

• All-steel unibody with a 170 percent increase in torsional rigidity

Engine and Driveline

• 240-horsepower 3.5-litre DOHC 24-valve V6 with 246 lb-ft of torque and dual exhaust in 3.5 SE models

• Standard 180-horsepower 2.5-litre DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder producing 180 lb-ft of torque (an increase of 25 horsepower and 24 lb-ft of torque from the previous 2.4-litre 4-cylinder engine)

• Both engines feature modular cylinder head design, lightweight pistons, continuously variable valve timing, variable induction system

• Choice of 5-speed manual or 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission

• Traction control on V6 automatic transmission models

Suspension, Steering and Braking

• 4-wheel independent suspension with extensive use of aluminum components; features new front suspension design and all-new multi-link rear suspension design

• 16-inch wheels with 205/65R16 tires on 4-cylinder models, 17-inch wheels with 215/55R17 tires on V6

• 4-wheel disc brakes with available 4-wheel ABS, Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution

Interior Features

• Contemporary, relaxed interior design with "cockpit" 3-gauge instrument panel, driver-oriented controls

• Distinctive "environments" - complete interior looks with different colours and textures for the seating areas and dashboard

• Optional 150-watt Bose® audio system with eight speakers, in-dash 6 CD changer

• Interior volume 263 litres (9.3 cubic feet) larger than 2001 model

• Front seat hip point raised 38 mm (1.5 inches) for increased outward visibility

Safety

• Dual front air bags with dual-stage inflators, available front seat side-impact supplemental air bags and side curtain supplemental air bags for head protection

Models and Manufacturing

• Offered in three well-equipped models: 2.5 S, 2.5 SL and 3.5 SE

• Will be assembled by Nissan North America Manufacturing Smyrna Tennessee Plants