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2020 Nissan Altima: Slight Price Increase, More Standard Safety Features
2020 Nissan Altima: Redefining the Modern Sedan with Turbo Power and AWD
The 2020 Nissan Altima builds upon its complete 2019 redesign, offering enhanced safety features and refined styling while maintaining its unique position as the only mainstream mid-size sedan with available all-wheel drive. At MotorVero, we take an in-depth look at what makes this sedan stand out in an increasingly SUV-dominated market.
Key Highlights
- Standard Safety Shield 360 across all trim levels
- Available intelligent all-wheel drive (segment exclusive)
- Groundbreaking VC-Turbo engine option (248 hp)
- ProPilot Assist semi-autonomous driving technology
- Starting MSRP of $24,995 (including destination)
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What's New for the 2020 Model Year
Nissan has strategically enhanced the Altima's value proposition for 2020 by expanding the availability of its advanced safety systems while introducing subtle but meaningful interior refinements.
Safety Technology Upgrades
The most significant change for 2020 is the expanded availability of Nissan's comprehensive Safety Shield 360 system, which now comes standard on all trim levels. This suite includes:
- Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Rear automatic braking system
- Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane departure warning
- Automatic high beam headlights
- Rear parking sensors
Interior Refinements
Upper trim levels (SV, SL, and Platinum) receive upgraded piano-black interior accents, while the range-topping Platinum model gains mirror memory functionality - a premium feature appreciated by multi-driver households.
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Powertrain Options: Efficiency Meets Performance
The 2020 Altima continues to offer two distinct engine choices, catering to different driver priorities:
2.5L DOHC 16-Valve 4-Cylinder
- 188 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
- 180 lb-ft of torque @ 3,600 rpm
- EPA-estimated 28 city/39 highway mpg (FWD)
- Available with AWD (27/37 mpg)
2.0L VC-Turbo 4-Cylinder
- 248 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm
- 273 lb-ft of torque @ 1,600-4,800 rpm
- World's first production variable compression engine
- EPA-estimated 25 city/34 highway mpg
Both engines pair with Nissan's Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), tuned for responsive acceleration while maximizing fuel efficiency. The VC-Turbo engine represents a technological breakthrough, automatically adjusting its compression ratio between 8:1 (for power) and 14:1 (for efficiency) based on driving conditions.
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Trim Level Breakdown and Pricing
| Trim Level | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| S | $24,995 | Safety Shield 360, 7" display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
| SR | $26,595 | Sport-tuned suspension, 19" wheels, LED headlights |
| SV | $28,775 | Dual-zone climate, 8" touchscreen, remote start |
| SL | $31,135 | Leather seats, Bose audio, navigation |
| Platinum | $33,075 | Premium leather, 360-degree camera, ProPilot Assist |
| SR VC-Turbo | $30,645 | 2.0L turbo engine, sport interior, paddle shifters |
| Platinum VC-Turbo | $36,075 | All luxury features with turbo performance |
All prices include the $895 destination charge. All-wheel drive adds $1,350 to 2.5L-equipped models. The VC-Turbo engine is only available with front-wheel drive.
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Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
The 2020 Altima offers one of the most comprehensive suites of safety technology in its class, particularly in higher trims equipped with ProPilot Assist:
- ProPilot Assist: Combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering for semi-autonomous highway driving
- Intelligent Lane Intervention: Gently corrects steering if unintentional lane departure is detected
- Traffic Sign Recognition: Displays detected speed limits on the instrument cluster
- Intelligent Around View Monitor: 360-degree camera system with moving object detection
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Competitive Positioning in the Mid-Size Sedan Segment
While SUVs continue to gain market share, the 2020 Altima distinguishes itself among sedans with several unique advantages:
- Segment-exclusive available AWD: Provides enhanced traction in inclement weather
- VC-Turbo technology: Delivers V6-like power with four-cylinder efficiency
- Standard advanced safety: Many competitors charge extra for similar systems
- Sportier driving dynamics: Lower center of gravity than comparable SUVs
Compared to rivals like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Hyundai Sonata, the Altima offers a compelling blend of innovative technology, available all-weather capability, and value-packed pricing.
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Ownership Experience and Value Proposition
The 2020 Altima delivers strong value throughout its warranty coverage:
- 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
- 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty
- 5-year/unlimited-mile corrosion warranty
- 24-hour roadside assistance
With its combination of cutting-edge technology, segment-unique features, and comprehensive safety systems, the 2020 Nissan Altima presents a compelling case for buyers seeking a sophisticated sedan that stands apart from the SUV crowd.
motorverorachael
Last Updated On May, 31-2025