The Nissan Altima Hybrid debuted for 2007, just in time for the 2008 rise (and subsequent fall) in gas prices. It is Nissan’s only hybrid model, a mid-size sedan, and it is the only hybrid on the market designed to appeal equally to people who enjoy driving and the environmentally conscientious. The Altima Hybrid is a “full” hybrid, meaning it can travel up to about 25 mph on electric power alone, and Nissan licenses the use of the technology from Toyota.

Here is what changed on the 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid:
• Standard splash guards
• New diversity antenna
• Available XM satellite radio

The 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid is sold in a limited number of states: California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Vermont. A federal tax credit of $2,350 is available to people who buy the Altima Hybrid.

The Altima Hybrid is available in a single trim level. Included as standard equipment are 16-inch alloy wheels, Nissan’s Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition system, dual-zone automatic climate control, power windows, power door locks with remote keyless entry, power mirrors, cruise control, a trip computer, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, and a CD player with an auxiliary audio input jack.

As with other Nissans, options are mainly grouped into packages. The Convenience Package adds an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat, steering wheel mounted audio controls, a cargo net, automatic headlights, and other minor features. The Connection Package includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, a Bose audio system with a six-disc CD changer and XM satellite radio, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, Homelink universal remote, and a handful of other upgrades. The Technology Package features a navigation system, a reversing camera, and real-time traffic information. The Altima Hybrid can also be equipped with a power sunroof.

The 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid combines a gasoline-burning, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric assist motor and a sealed nickel metal hydride battery pack. Total combined output is 198 horsepower running on regular unleaded fuel. A continuously variable transmission delivers the combined power to the front wheels, while a regenerative braking system is used to recharge the battery pack when stopping the vehicle or when coasting down a hill. The Nissan Altima Hybrid meets strict AT-PZEV (Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emission Vehicle) standards, meaning it emits almost zero evaporative emissions.

Standard safety features on the 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid includes six airbags: dual front airbags, side-impact airbags, and side curtain airbags. Antilock brakes with brake assist, traction control, and stability control are also standard.

J.D. Power and Associates compares the Nissan Altima to other mid-size cars, but considering the Altima Hybrid’s technology and price, its closest competitors are the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid, the Saturn Aura Hybrid, the Toyota Camry Hybrid and the Toyota Prius.

Ratings for the 2008 Nissan Altima
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