When people shop for homes, they usually describe their ideal dwelling in one of two ways. They either want lots of modern amenities. Or they want one with character.
Nissan definitely fits in the latter category. Competing in the hottest auto segment against perennial favorites Toyota and Honda, Nissan threw out the standard blueprint in car design (ala copying Europe) and started from scratch. The result is a distinctive fleet of vehicles.
My 2010 Nissan Altima Hybrid reflects this character. Introduced in late 2007 as a 2008 model, the Altima hybrid has undergone mostly a nip/tuck in the latest edition. My press vehicle’s Ocean Gray paint job is new for 2010. Same with the new, 16-inch aluminum alloy hubcaps. Otherwise, it looks like the standard Altima with hybrid badges, whose curvy lines are distinctive compared to the boxy, European-inspired Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, and Chevy Malibu hybrids.
The design differences are most prominent in the greenhouse, which houses the front and rear windshields, windows, and roof. The rakish greenhouse gives the Altima a more sporty appearance than the competition, though backseat headroom takes a beating (more on that in the next post). The multi-lens headlamp system lies flush on the front fascia, and the wheel arches are slim and unobtrusive. The rear, though, looks massive with with bulging taillight and prominent lip spoiler.
Next: Interior
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