December 9, 2004 – , Thu Dec 09 00:00:00 -0600 2010 Since its introduction in 1992, Nissan Altima has been a leader in the mid-size sedan segment, offering customers distinctive styling, advanced performance and a luxurious interior at an affordable price. Among its numerous awards, Altima was recently recognized as a class leader and ranked the "Best Midsized Car under $20,000 in Initial Quality" by J.D. Power and Associates. For 1997.5, Altima has received further refinements and additional safety features, making it one of the best values on the market. For the new model year, Nissan Altima GLE has been updated with standard leather seat trim, while all 1997.5 models enjoy two new exterior colors and meet Federal Side-Impact Safety Standards. Available on GXE models will be a "Limited Edition" package, offering customers distinctive interior and exterior enhancements. Offered in four trim levels -- value-oriented XE, well-equipped GXE, sport-oriented SE and top-of-the-line GLE -- each Altima model has a comprehensive selection of distinguishing features and options. "We are very proud of the continued success of Altima at Nissan," said Thomas H. Eastwood, vice president, Nissan Division. "Not only does Altima enable Nissan to better address the diverse tastes and budgets of our customers, but also helps to solidify Nissan's leadership in the hotly contested mid-size sedan marketplace." Engine/Suspension/Body Structure Beneath the hood is a standard 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine that produces 150 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 154 ft-lbs of torque at 4,400 rpm. This finely tuned engine is designed for smooth and powerful operation, while delivering a fuel-efficient 30/24 mpg Highway/City estimated EPA mileage when mated to the 5-speed manual transmission and 29/21 mpg Highway/City estimated EPA mileage for models equipped with the electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission. Altima's standard 4-wheel independent rear multi-link suspension with Super Toe Control™ and front and rear stabilizer bars, coupled with power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, allow for agile handling and superb ride comfort. For added braking confidence, power-assisted 4-wheel disc brakes with a 4-channel/4-sensor anti-lock braking system (ABS) is available on all Altima models. A smooth-shifting 5-speed manual transmission is standard on XE, GXE and SE models, while an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission is standard on the GLE (optional on XE, GXE and SE models). Safety Features The Altima offers a wide range of standard safety features, including driver- and front-passenger air bags, 3-point front- and rear outboard seat belts with height-adjustable anchors, child safety rear door locks, front and rear body structure crumple zones, steel side-door guard beams, and an energy-absorbing steering column. The 1997.5 models also meet the Federal Side-Impact Safety Standards. Standard Features/Optional Features and Packages Complementing Altima's sleek exterior design is a roomy interior, offering occupants a myriad of thoughtful standard features. Contoured reclining front bucket seats with adjustable head restraints, electric rear window defroster with timer, dual cup holders, front door map pockets, tilt steering column and remote trunk, fuel-filler door and hood releases are several of the features that add to Altima's consistently high levels of comfort and convenience. Various interior, exterior and performance attributes define the distinct personalities of the four Altima models. The GXE Value Option Package features CFC-free air conditioning, cruise control, and AM/FM/cassette stereo with automatic power antenna. New for 1997.5 is a "Limited Edition" package for the popular GXE model which includes: 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, "Limited Edition" badge, floormats, and vehicle security system with keyless entry remote. Altima SE is built to appeal to drivers who prefer a sportier vehicle. With an extensive list of standard equipment and available options -- including front sport seats, cast aluminum-alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, cornering lamps, rear spoiler, and lower body side sill extensions, 4-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob (manual transmission models only) and available leather seating surfaces -- the SE model delivers both performance and style. For the discerning buyer, Altima GLE captures the essence of luxury. Equipped with an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission, adjustable lumbar support driver's seat, instrument panel-mounted clock, power sunroof, six speaker AM/FM/cassette stereo with integrated compact disc player and vehicle security system, Altima GLE features equipment often reserved for luxury cars. Available options include a power sliding glass sunroof and an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Design/Exterior Styling Styled at Nissan Design International (NDI) in La Jolla, Calif., Altima's unique styling is unlike any other car in its category. Altima's fluid lines and organically curved shape have earned it accolades for design excellence since entering the marketplace in 1992. To ensure that every Altima produced meets Nissan's stringent quality standards, the Altima body and platform are engineered using special manufacturing systems installed at Nissan Motor Manufacturing Corporation (NMMC) in Smyrna, Tenn. Altima production utilizes Nissan's patented Intelligent Body Assembly System (IBAS) which guarantees an industry-leading level of body dimensional accuracy. An environmentally friendly water-based paint system is used to minimize environmental impact caused by conventional painting methods. Two new available exterior colors include Garnet Pearl and Black Cherry, along with the existing colors of Beige Pearl, Cloud White, Blue Emerald, Super Black and Platinum Metallic. Interior colors include Tan, Titanium and Charcoal, all of which are available in cloth or leather materials. Warranty All 1997 Nissan models are covered by a comprehensive 3-year/36,000-mile "bumper-to-bumper" Limited Warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile Limited Powertrain Warranty, a 5-year/60-000-mile Corrosion Coverage and a Lifetime Seat Belt Warranty Issued by Nissan