- Nissan has introduced the 2026 Altima, which starts at $27,580.
- That’s a $580 increase, and buyers now get a new Midnight Edition.
- The entry-level S and top-tier SL trims have been discontinued.
Nissan has a spiffy new Sentra, but the company’s flagship sedan is rolling into 2026 with a number of notable updates. Key among them is additional equipment and a new Midnight Edition.
Starting with the latter, the Midnight Edition is available on the range-topping Altima SR as a $2,000 package. As the name suggests, it embraces the blackout trend with a handful of dark features.
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Highlights include a black grille and a black roof, which can contrast with Tactical Green Metallic, Pearl White TriCoat, or Gray Sky Pearl. If you’re more interested in a traditional blackout look, Super Black paint is also available.
The theme continues with gloss black 19-inch wheels, dark window trim, and unique badging. Buyers will also find additional equipment including a moonroof and a dual-zone automatic climate control system.
Speaking of the SR, the trim gains additional equipment including a wireless smartphone charger and a 12.3-inch infotainment system. The latter replaces the previously standard 8-inch display.
A Streamlined Lineup
While those updates are welcome, Nissan has gutted the Altima lineup as the S and SL have been dropped. The death of the entry-level variant means pricing has climbed from $27,000 to $27,580. That’s an increase of $580, but comparing the 2025 SV to the 2026 SV results in a more modest hike of $150.
As for the SR, it begins at $29,080, which is an increase of $250. That’s pretty minor, especially given the extra equipment.
Regardless of which trim is selected, all models are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 188 hp (140 kW / 191 PS) and 180 lb-ft (255 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to an Xtronic continuously variable transmission, which can be paired with front- or all-wheel drive. The latter costs $1,400 and lowers the output to 182 hp (136 kW / 185 PS) and 178 lb-ft (241 Nm).