The Nissan Altima IV Coupe, produced between 2007 and 2012, represented Nissan’s foray into a more stylish and performance-oriented mid-size coupe segment. Positioned as the sportier alternative to the Altima sedan, the Coupe aimed to attract buyers seeking a blend of practicality and driving enjoyment. The 3.5 V6 variant, generating 270 horsepower, was the top-tier engine option for the Altima Coupe, representing the pinnacle of performance within the fourth-generation (D40) model line. It was built on the Nissan D platform, shared with other Nissan and Renault models of the era.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Altima |
| Generation | Altima IV Coupe |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (270 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 185.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 240.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 270 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 4400 rpm (258.15 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 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.2 l (8.66 US qt | 7.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1454 kg (3205.52 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 454 l (16.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 76 l (20.08 US gal | 16.72 UK gal) |
| Length | 4636 mm (182.52 in) |
| Width | 1796 mm (70.71 in) |
| Height | 1405 mm (55.31 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2675 mm (105.31 in) |
| Front track | 1542 mm (60.71 in) |
| Rear track | 1534 mm (60.39 in) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 215/55 R17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Altima Coupe 3.5 V6 is the VQ35DE engine, a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine is a member of Nissan’s highly regarded VQ engine family, known for its smooth operation, reliability, and strong performance. The VQ35DE features a 60-degree V-angle, aluminum alloy block and cylinder heads, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. The multi-port fuel injection system delivers fuel directly into each intake port, optimizing combustion. The engine’s output of 270 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm provided brisk acceleration and confident highway cruising. The 6-speed manual transmission was the sole transmission option for this trim, offering drivers full control over the engine’s power.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.5 V6-equipped Altima Coupe delivered a noticeably more engaging driving experience compared to the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder models. The V6’s ample torque allowed for quick acceleration in various driving situations, while the 6-speed manual transmission provided precise gear changes and a direct connection to the engine. The gear ratios were tuned to balance acceleration and fuel efficiency, with a relatively short first gear for strong off-the-line performance and a taller sixth gear for relaxed highway cruising. While not a dedicated sports car, the Altima Coupe 3.5 V6 offered a satisfying level of performance for a mid-size coupe.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Altima Coupe 3.5 V6 typically came well-equipped, though specific features varied depending on optional packages. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and keyless entry. Higher trim levels added features such as a premium Bose audio system, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and automatic climate control. The interior design featured a driver-focused layout with a sporty three-spoke steering wheel and metallic accents. Exterior styling cues included a more aggressive front fascia, rear spoiler, and alloy wheels.
Chassis & Braking
The Altima Coupe utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provided a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The 3.5 V6 models typically featured larger diameter brakes with ventilated front discs and solid rear discs, providing adequate stopping power for the increased performance. The steering was a rack-and-pinion system with power assist, offering responsive and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear suspension to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Altima Coupe 3.5 V6 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its strong engine, sporty handling, and attractive styling. However, some reviewers noted that the interior quality wasn’t quite as refined as some of its competitors, such as the Honda Accord Coupe or the Ford Mustang. Compared to the Altima 2.5L models, the 3.5 V6 offered a significant performance upgrade, but at the cost of slightly lower fuel economy. The V6 also commanded a higher price tag. Against other V6-powered coupes in its class, the Altima Coupe offered a competitive combination of performance, features, and value.
Legacy
The Nissan Altima IV Coupe 3.5 V6 has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The VQ35DE engine is known for its durability and longevity, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of trouble-free service. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, timing chain inspection (though generally robust), and coolant flushes. While not a collector’s item, the Altima Coupe 3.5 V6 remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable and sporty coupe with a proven powertrain. Its blend of performance, practicality, and value continues to make it an appealing option in the used car market today.
