The Elusive Nissan Altima Hybrid
NissanPedia goes on the hunt for an elusive mid-sized, eco-friendly (and very affordable) vehicle gaining popularity in only 8 of the 50 states, Nissan’s Altima Hybrid.
With a 158-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gas engine backed up by a 40-horsepower electric motor, this Altima brings the mid-sized hybrid sedan into a class fitting any Toyota and Honda hybrid on the market. How far are you getting with your Altima? Try 35 miles a gallon city and 33 highway. You can push it up to 40 depending on how hard you brake, accelerate, etc. – which is right up there with Camry’s 33/34 m.p.g. and surpasses The Chevy Malibu Hybrid at 24/32 m.p.g.
2007-2008 Altima Hybrid, availability limited
So why can’t you run out and pick up your Altima today? Well, you could, but only if you live in: California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island & Vermont. Environmental regulations in those green states has risen demand for eco-friendly cars, but you won’t see the Altima on dealer lots in the Midwest or southern states. However, if you don’t mind the $25,795 base price (again, competing well with Toyota, Honda, etc.) the sticker includes a delivery fee.
Altima’s Hybrid 158-horsepower 4-cylinder gas & 40-horsepower electric engine packs a sweet, though rough, power-boost
The jump from electric motor to gas engine and back can be a little harsh. Critics of the Altima Hybrid have complained about how much you can feel the switch, those for the Altima say the smooth transition of a Toyota is too smooth, almost putting you to sleep at the wheel. Regardless of how you feel, it can be said the switch from gas to electric (and vice-versa) is felt, but not so harsh that you’ll propel your vehicle off the road.
Nissan’s Altima test Vehicle circa 2005
Several taxi & limo commissions, along with car rental agencies, have embraced hybrid car technology. The most famous of all (at least most well known in pop culture) may be New York’s Taxi & Limousine Commission – which is implementing the Altima Hybrid as part of their yellow-cab fleet. As interest and the demand for eco-automobiles grows, Nissan lovers can rest assured they’ll spy future Altima Hybrids at dealers nationwide.
We Heart the NYC Taxi Commission and their embracing of the Altima Hybrid
Apr 7th, 2011 at 9:47 am
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