2023 Nissan Altima Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

The Altima has been a staple of the Nissan line-up since 1993. Now in its sixth generation (as of 2019), the Altima has seen its share of changes over the years. And this model year brings a mid-cycle refresh that the Altima definitely needed.

The biggest change? The dropping of the Platinum trim level. That leaves you with the S, SV, SR, SL, and SR VC-Turbo to choose from. What's more, this line-up has been given an updated front-end design to bring it into the here-and-now. Inside, you will find a slew of new and updated features, including a sleek, optional 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay.

With a variety of trim levels to choose from, you can rest assured that this ride will be both comfortable and efficient. But if you're after more pep-in your step the turbo engine offers an energetic kick -- just make sure it's available in the trim level of choice.

Compare the S vs SV. What is the difference?

Packed with power, the 2023 Nissan Altima S offers an impressive driving experience. Equipped standardly with front-wheel drive and a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine generating 188 horses and 180 lb.-ft of torque, this vehicle promises plenty under its hood! Those seeking enhanced traction may opt for all wheel drive version; however, note that it slightly diminishes output to 182 hp & 178 lb.-ft., so consider carefully which best suits your needs before making your choice.

The S is fairly basic in its design, but it still manages to pack in some good design elements and features. It rides atop 16-inch steel wheels that come with full wheel covers. There is standard remote engine start, as well as keyless entry and ignition for an easy start-up.

The S's seats are all done in cloth upholstery, and the driver's seat is manually adjustable six different ways. The rear seat offers a 60/40 split-fold, which makes it easy to load cargo into the back and have it pass through.

In terms of tech specs, the S keeps it simple but effective with a six-speaker sound system, a sole USB port up front, and Bluetooth audio streaming and phone connectivity. You do get a standard suite of driver aids that really packs a punch. This bundles together blind-spot warning with a rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high-beam headlights, a driver attention warning, a lane departure warning, a rear seat reminder, and a forward collision warning that includes automatic braking.

The SV ups the ante a bit. The wheels get upgraded to 17-inch alloy models, and the driver's seat gains power adjustability. There is an 8-inch touchscreen display up front that is compatible with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Satellite radio compatibility is also factored in, and the front gains a USB-C port while the rear gains two of them.

The SV adds a Premium package that you can opt for. In this package, you get a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, heated side mirrors that have integrated turn indicators, heating for the front seats, the 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay (Android Auto is still wired, however), a wireless charging pad for your smartphone, and the ProPilot Assist system (which adds a lane keeping system and adaptive cruise control).

Compare the SV vs SR Trims. What is the difference?

Moving up the trim level ladder one rung is the mid-tier SR trim. The SR is essentially the Sporty Spice of the line-up. It rides atop 19-inch wheels and adds a sport-tuned suspension to the front-wheel drive variants. There are also transmission paddle shifters that you can use for sportier driving styles.

Both the interior and body of the SR have unique styling elements. Also, up front, you get the leather-wrapped gear shift knob and steering wheel. You do get the option of adding the SR Premium package. It contains everything that the SR Premium packages does minus the ProPilot Assist features.

Compare the SR vs SL Trim Levels. What is the difference?

The SL trim level takes the already impressive SV and adds even more features to it. From 19-inch wheels outside to heated leather seating inside, this vehicle has your comfort in mind. Dual-zone automatic climate controls ensure that everyone can have their ideal temperature while four-way power adjustability on the passenger seat means you'll never be uncomfortable again! Don't forget fog lights also come standard ensuring optimal vision for drivers at all times of day or night. Make any road trip a breeze with these luxury amenities aboard.

As far as additions and upgrades to all of the technological features, you get quite the slew of them. There is integrated navigation that is made standard on the SL trim level, plus the vehicle is outfitted with NissanConnect connected services. A nine-speaker premium Bose sound system delivers crisp audio quality throughout the entire cabin, making it well worth the cost to upgrade to this trim level.

Nissan adds a few more driver aids to the SL trim level. There is a feature that can recognize traffic signs on the road. The 360-degree surround-view camera system gives you a top-down view of everything immediately surrounding your vehicle. Rear automatic braking gets added on as well, making it so that the vehicle will apply the brakes for you if the system detects an impending rear-end collision.

Compare the SL vs SR VC-Turbo. What is the difference?

After a long journey, we have finally reached the highest point of the 2023 Nissan Altima's lineup - the SR VC-Turbo. This exceptional car stands out in its line with an impressive 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine capable of generating up to 248 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft or torque when running on 93 octane gas! Front wheel drive is standard for this trim level, so you can feel confident driving it no matter what terrain lies ahead – unfortunately all wheel drive isn’t available here though.

This vehicle offers a perfect blend of luxury and spunk, giving drivers the best of both worlds from its mid-tier SL and spunky SR models - all for an accessible price. Creative combinations like these bring together comfort features usually reserved for more expensive vehicles with that classic sporty vibe you'd expect to find in smaller trims. It's no wonder this car is so appealing.

Final Thoughts

Nissan is a leader in the auto industry when it comes to packing superior value into their vehicles. Their recent mid-cycle refresh offers even better bang for your buck, with advanced technology and features that really elevate driver experience. Buyers of all budgets benefit from this upgrade - top tier trims boast luxury tech while base models still feel decently equipped without breaking the bank. No matter what you're looking for, Nissan's Altima has something special to offer every kind of customer.

That is why the SV trim level comes so highly recommended. Its starting MSRP is not even $1,000 above that of the S, but it tacks on quite a bit more. The 8-inch touchscreen display is definitely something that most buyers are going to want from their new vehicle. And, even though this particular trim level does not support wireless smartphone app integration, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work just fine. Plus, having those three extra charging ports in the front and rear of the vehicle are great to have so that everyone can at least keep their devices charged up and ready to go.

If you're looking for a few extra amenities, upgrading to the SL trim level of your vehicle might be worth considering. By doing so, you could enjoy features like dual-zone automatic climate control and rear air vents that will benefit passengers in the backseat. Additionally, when it comes to sound systems there's no comparison - with its 9 speakers producing crystal clear audio quality from Bose premium technology outshining anything available at lower trims levels.

If you're looking for the perfect ride to replace that gas-guzzling SUV and make your wallet a little happier, look no further than the 2023 Nissan Altima. With its sleek styling, good fuel economy and an array of options to choose from - including two standouts in SV and SL trim levels – there is something here for every type driver. So jump on board with this modern marvel today; it's sure to be a smooth cruise down the highway.

With any amount of luck, Nissan will realize that their turbo engine could be a gold mine for them and will expand its availability after this model year. Having that turbo engine plopped into the SL would make it the trim level to buy, without a doubt about it. But, for now, that turbo engine is pretty limited, which is why the SR VC-Turbo is not the trim level that customers are going to want to buy this year.