The Nissan Altima V (facelift, 2016-2018) equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 engine and Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) represented the performance peak of the fifth-generation Altima (L33) lineup. Introduced as part of a mid-cycle refresh, this variant aimed to provide a more engaging driving experience and compete with larger sedans while maintaining the Altima’s reputation for value and practicality. Positioned as the top-tier trim, it offered a significant power upgrade over the standard four-cylinder models. The Altima V facelift built upon the foundation of the L33 platform, which debuted in 2013, incorporating styling updates and enhanced technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Altima |
| Generation | Altima V (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (270 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.7 kg/Hp, 174.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 220 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 270 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 341 Nm @ 4400 rpm (251.51 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | VQ35DE |
| Engine displacement | 3498 cm3 (213.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.2 l (9.72 US qt | 8.09 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1550 kg (3417.17 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2005 kg (4420.27 lbs.) |
| Max load | 455 kg (1003.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 436 l (15.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l (19.02 US gal | 15.84 UK gal) |
| Length | 4874 mm (191.89 in.) |
| Width | 1829 mm (72.01 in.) |
| Height | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2776 mm (109.29 in.) |
| Front track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Rear track | 1575 mm (62.01 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 137 mm (5.39 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT Xtronic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 235/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2016-2018 Nissan Altima V 3.5 V6 CVT represented a significant step up in performance for the Altima model line. It was designed to appeal to drivers seeking a more spirited driving experience without sacrificing the comfort and practicality expected of a mid-size sedan. The facelift brought revised front and rear styling, along with interior enhancements, but the core appeal of this variant lay in its potent V6 engine. This model occupied the top spot in the Altima hierarchy, offering a premium experience compared to the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder options.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Altima V was Nissan’s venerable VQ35DE 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine, a member of Nissan’s highly-regarded VQ family, is known for its smooth operation, reliability, and strong power output. The VQ35DE features a 60-degree V-angle, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and four valves per cylinder. It utilizes multi-port fuel injection to deliver precise fuel metering. The engine produces 270 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 251 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. This power is then channeled through Nissan’s Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). The CVT is designed to provide seamless acceleration and improved fuel efficiency compared to a traditional automatic transmission. Unlike some CVTs that simulate gear changes, the Xtronic CVT offers a truly stepless gear ratio, allowing the engine to operate at its most efficient point at all times.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.5 V6 and CVT combination delivered a noticeably different driving experience compared to the standard Altima models. While the CVT doesn’t offer the immediate response of a traditional automatic or dual-clutch transmission, it provides smooth and linear acceleration. The V6 engine provides ample power for both city driving and highway passing maneuvers. The CVT’s programming allows for a more aggressive response when the driver selects the “Sport” mode, holding lower simulated gear ratios for longer to maximize acceleration. Compared to the 2.5-liter four-cylinder Altima, the V6 model felt significantly more powerful and refined. The added weight of the V6 engine did slightly impact handling, but the independent suspension provided a comfortable and controlled ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Altima V 3.5 V6 CVT typically came standard with a generous array of features. These included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a rearview camera, and NissanConnect services. Optional extras included a premium sound system, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Interior trim levels varied, with higher-spec models offering woodgrain accents and upgraded materials. Exterior features often included alloy wheels, chrome accents, and a sunroof.
Chassis & Braking
The Altima V utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent coil spring suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist. The chassis was designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, although it wasn’t specifically tuned for sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Altima V 3.5 V6 for its strong engine and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the CVT transmission could feel somewhat disconnected and lacked the engagement of a traditional automatic. Compared to other V6-powered mid-size sedans, such as the Toyota Camry XLE V6 and the Honda Accord V6, the Altima V offered a competitive level of performance and features at a slightly lower price point. Fuel economy was respectable for a V6 engine, but it was still lower than the four-cylinder Altima models. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the CVT transmission over the long term.
Legacy
The Nissan Altima V 3.5 V6 CVT remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a comfortable and reliable mid-size sedan with strong performance. The VQ35DE engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of trouble-free service. While the CVT transmission requires regular fluid changes, it is generally considered to be a reliable unit. The Altima V represents a sweet spot in the Altima lineup, offering a compelling combination of power, comfort, and value. Its legacy is one of a well-rounded and enjoyable driving experience that continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
