2025 vs. 2026 Nissan Altima: What Changed in this Sedan’s Model Year

Shopping for a new Nissan Altima and not sure whether the 2025 or 2026 model is the smarter buy? You’re looking at the final two model years for this sedan, and the details separating them matter more than they normally would.

The 2026 Nissan Altima trims down to SV and SR grades starting at an estimated $27,580, while the 2025 Altima still offers S, SV, SR, and SL trims from $27,000. Both share the same 188-horsepower engine, but 2026 adds a new SR Midnight Edition and standard larger touchscreens on SR trims.

Our team at Miracle Nissan of North Augusta sells and services Altimas for drivers across Beech Island, Aiken, and the greater Augusta, GA metro, so we track these year-over-year changes closely. Here’s a straightforward look at what changed, what stayed the same, and how to decide which model year belongs in your driveway.

Key Points: 2025 vs. 2026 Nissan Altima

• The 2026 lineup is simpler, not smaller on value. Nissan trimmed the Altima to two core trims, SV and SR, but added a new SR Midnight Edition and pushed the 12.3-inch touchscreen further down the lineup.
• This is the Altima’s last model year. Production winds down after 2026, so current dealership inventory is what’s left, not a preview of what’s coming next.
• Both years share the same proven powertrain. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and CVT carry over unchanged, so performance and everyday drivability stay consistent no matter which year you choose.

2025 vs. 2026 Nissan Altima Trims at a Glance

Comparing trims and pricing side by side makes the differences easier to spot. Here’s how the two model years stack up before you head to North Augusta to see the inventory in person.

Pricing reflects manufacturer starting MSRP for FWD models and excludes tax, title, license, and dealer fees. Add an estimated $1,500 for Intelligent AWD on any trim. EPA-estimated combined mpg shown is for FWD configurations. Contact our team to confirm current pricing and availability.

The 2025 SL is the only trim with true luxury-level equipment, since Nissan didn’t carry that grade into 2026. Meanwhile, the 2026 SR Midnight Edition is the boldest-looking Altima you can buy new, with black wheels and a two-tone black roof standard. Combined fuel economy dips slightly for 2026, which likely traces back to trim-level equipment shifts rather than any change under the hood. If luxury trim tops your list, 2025 has the edge. If style and standard tech matter more, 2026 does.

Why 2026 Is the Last Model Year for the Nissan Altima

Nissan has confirmed the Altima nameplate ends production after the 2026 model year. There’s no 2027 Altima on the schedule, and the automaker is reshaping its sedan and crossover lineup as part of its broader Re:Nissan recovery plan.

For shoppers, that means two things. First, 2026 Altima inventory won’t be replenished once dealership stock runs low. Second, buying a 2025 or 2026 model now still gets you a fully supported new vehicle, backed by the same Nissan warranty coverage and parts availability as any other current model.

This isn’t a reason to rush a decision. It’s a reason to compare the two model years carefully, since whichever one you choose will be among the last new Altimas available at Miracle Nissan of North Augusta.

Trim Lineup: What Changed for 2026

The 2025 Altima spans four trims: S, SV, SR, and SL. For 2026, Nissan narrowed that to two core trims, SV and SR, each available in a Special Edition or Midnight Edition variant.

Dropping the base S trim means every 2026 Altima now starts closer to last year’s SV equipment level. Cutting the SL trim means 2026 buyers lose the top-tier luxury package, including the distinct interior trim and available features, that 2025 SL shoppers could still get.

The tradeoff works in favor of standard technology. The 12.3-inch touchscreen that used to require the SL trim is now standard on SR grades and available on the SV Special Edition, so more 2026 buyers get the larger display without stepping all the way up to a flagship trim.

Meet the New SR Midnight Edition

New for 2026, the SR Midnight Edition is a blacked-out appearance package built on the SR trim. A black V-motion grille, two-tone black roof, and black 19-inch wheels give it a noticeably sportier look than any 2025 Altima trim offered.

Beyond the exterior, the Midnight Edition includes dual-zone automatic climate control and a moonroof as standard equipment. Starting MSRP is an estimated $30,980, which comes in below where the outgoing 2025 SL trim started.

Powertrain, AWD, and Fuel Economy

Both the 2025 and 2026 Nissan Altima use the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, rated at an estimated 188 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission. A CVT (continuously variable transmission) is a type of automatic transmission that uses a belt and pulley system instead of fixed gears, delivering smooth, stepless acceleration.

Intelligent AWD is available on both model years for an estimated $1,500 upcharge on any trim. Intelligent AWD is a drivetrain system that automatically shifts power between the front and rear wheels for added traction in rain or light winter conditions, useful for the occasional wet commute along I-20 between North Augusta and Augusta.

Fuel economy stays close between the two years. The 2025 Altima is EPA-estimated at up to 32 mpg combined with FWD, while the 2026 model is estimated at up to 30 mpg combined FWD. Either year delivers commuter-friendly efficiency. That two-mpg gap probably comes down to equipment changes rather than anything mechanical.

Technology and Everyday Comfort

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is available on both model years. It’s standard on SV Special Edition and SR trims for 2026, and tied to SR and SL trims for 2025.

The 12.3-inch touchscreen is the headline technology upgrade for 2026. It replaces the smaller standard display used on lower 2025 trims and puts a bigger, easier-to-read interface within reach on more of the lineup.

Neither year skimps on driver-assist features. Nissan Safety Shield 360, the brand’s suite of standard driver-assist technology including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, comes standard across every trim on both the 2025 and 2026 Altima. Safety equipment isn’t a reason to choose one year over the other.

Which Model Year Is Right for You?

• Want the lowest possible starting price? The 2025 Altima S starts at an estimated $27,000, about $580 less than the 2026 SV.
• Want the biggest touchscreen without buying a top trim? The 2026 SV Special Edition or SR delivers the 12.3-inch display that used to require a 2025 SL.
• Want a distinct, sportier look? The 2026 SR Midnight Edition is the only Altima trim with the blacked-out styling package.
• Want the most luxury-focused trim available? The 2025 SL is your only option, since Nissan didn’t carry that grade into 2026.
• Comparing purely on efficiency? The 2025 lineup edges out 2026 by an estimated one to two mpg combined, though most daily commuters won’t notice the difference.

Find Your Next Nissan Altima at Miracle Nissan of North Augusta

Whichever model year fits your budget and style, our team at Miracle Nissan of North Augusta can walk you through current Altima inventory in person. We’re located at 5590 Jefferson Davis Hwy in Beech Island, SC, serving drivers throughout North Augusta, Aiken, and the greater Augusta, GA metro.

Browse our new Nissan Altima inventory online to see what’s currently on the lot, or visit our showroom for a test drive to feel the difference between trims yourself. With the Altima entering its final model year, our team can also walk you through current Nissan lease and finance offers to help you find the right fit while inventory lasts.