Nissan Prices Four-Cylinder 2013 Altima Sedan From $22,280; V-6 Models Start at $26,140 [New York Auto Show]

Nissan has priced its redesigned 2013 Altima sedan, which debuted at the New York auto show, from $22,280. That modest outlay buys you a base four-cylinder Altima 2.5; V-6–powered Altima 3.5 models start at a richer $26,140. While the 2013 2.5′s base price is now slightly higher than last year's, the least-expensive V-6 model is a bit less expensive compared to a year ago. (For an in-depth look at the new Altima, you can read our story here.) Also, Nissan increased the number of trim levels from three to seven. Last year's four-cylinder 2.5 and 2.5 S models are joined by the new 2.5 SV and 2.5 SL. (The SL previously existed as a package available on the 2012 Altima 2.5 S.) Last year's six-cylinder 3.5 SR trim goes away and is replaced by a trio of new V-6 models: 3.5 S, 3.5 SV, and 3.5 SL. Complete pricing below: 2.5: $22,280 ($950 increase from last year) 2.5 S: $23,280 ($210 decrease from last year) 2.5 SV: $24,880 (new model) 2.5 SL: $28,830 ($1160 increase from last year's 2.5 S with SL package) 3.5 S: $26,140 ($210 decrease from last year's 3.5 SR V-6 model) 3.5 SV: $28,560 (new model) 3.5 SL: $30,860 (new model) The 2.5 S comes standard with a six-way power driver's seat, automatic headlights, and keyless entry with pushbutton start; 3.5 S adds to that list 18-inch wheels and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for the CVT's six faux "gears." Altima 2.5 SV models get remote start, dual-zone climate control, a backup camera, NissanConnect service, and a five-inch color screen for the audio system. The V-6-powered SV models add a sunroof and fog lights as standard equipment.  Finally, regardless of engine choice, the SL trim comes with leather seats (heated in front), an eight-way power driver's seat, a nine-speaker Bose audio system, a heated steering wheel, LED taillights, and a sunroof. Interestingly, the base Altima 2.5 is priced at the high end of the mid-size segment; entry-level versions of the Honda Accord, Kia Optima, and Mazda 6 can all be had for less money—and with a manual transmission, too. As always, Nissan will market the Altima as the sporty family sedan contender, despite the standard CVT. Thus, the new Altima's biggest foe likely will be the attractive—and not yet priced—2013 Fusion, which Ford is promising will have fun Euro-style driving dynamics. The mid-size segment is going to heat up considerably this year. from Car and Driver Blog http://blog.caranddriver.com

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