The 2007 Nissan Altima is initially available as five models: the 2.5, 2.5S, 2.5SL, 3.5SE and 3.5SL. The first three use a newly revised version of the 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine, making a strong 175 horsepower, and the other two use a new generation of the trusty 3.5-liter V6, now with 270 horsepower. There will also be an Altima hybrid coming in early 2007.

Two transmissions are available, the standard six-speed manual or the continuously variable transmission.

Standard equipment on the 2.5 includes cloth seats, 16-inch steel wheels, 60/40 split fold-down rear seats, power windows, power door locks, cruise control, halogen headlamps, electric power steering, AM/FM/CD with four speakers, vehicle information display, and intelligent key with push-button starting. Air conditioning does not come standard.

The 2.5S adds air conditioning, a six-speaker sound system, remote keyless entry, power sideview mirrors, and speed-sensitive intermittent wipers, among other smaller things.

The 2.5SL uses the continuously variable transmission, and adds leather interior with heated front seats and power driver's seat, moonroof, alloy wheels, dual-zone temp controls and rear air conditioning vents, among other smaller things.

The 3.5 SE uses the powerful V6 engine with the six-speed manual gearbox and cloth interior. It adds ABS, traction control, and 17-inch alloy wheels, plus heated sideview mirrors and other features.

The 3.5SL has most of the things listed above, but goes back down to 16-inch alloy wheels. It adds high-intensity xenon headlights, foglamps, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, and nine-speaker Bose CD/MP3 sound system.

A Technology Package includes the navigation system, a rearview monitor and satellite radio. Other packages, called Convenience, Convenience Plus, Connection, Sport, Leather and Premium, let buyers tailor their Altima to their needs.

Safety features for the Altima include an advanced air bag system, side-impact airbags in front, full side curtain bags, active head restraints in front, and a tire pressure monitoring system. On the higher priced models, anti-lock brakes are standard and electronic stability control is optional. ABS includes electronic brake-force distribution and Brake Assist. Electronic stability control, which Nissan calls VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) is optional on 3.5 models.