Nissan is keeping the Altima in the game for 2026, but not without making some tough decisions along the way. While the midsize sedan picks up new equipment and a fresh Midnight Edition, the automaker has quietly trimmed the lineup by eliminating two familiar variants.
Nissan has officially rolled out the 2026 Altima, and pricing now starts at $27,580. That figure represents a $580 increase over last year, though buyers do get a handful of updates in return, including the introduction of a Midnight Edition package. At the same time, the brand has discontinued both the base S and range-topping SL trims.
The Altima may not be the newest sedan in Nissan’s portfolio, especially with the recently updated Sentra stealing some attention, but the company’s flagship sedan is heading into the new model year with several noteworthy changes. The most significant additions come in the form of extra standard equipment and the aforementioned Midnight Edition.
Focusing on that package, the Midnight Edition is offered exclusively on the range-topping Altima SR and carries a $2,000 price tag. True to its name, the package leans heavily into the blackout aesthetic with a series of dark-themed design elements.
Notable exterior touches include a blacked-out grille and a black roof. These features can be paired with Tactical Green Metallic, Pearl White TriCoat, or Gray Sky Pearl for a contrasting look. Buyers who prefer a fully stealthy appearance can also opt for Super Black paint.
The dark theme continues with gloss black 19-inch alloy wheels, black window trim, and exclusive Midnight Edition badging. Beyond visual upgrades, the package also adds functional features such as a moonroof and a dual-zone automatic climate control system.
The SR trim itself sees additional improvements for 2026. Newly standard equipment includes a wireless smartphone charging pad and a significantly larger 12.3-inch infotainment display, replacing the previously standard 8-inch screen.
While the added features are welcome, Nissan has notably slimmed down the Altima lineup for 2026. The removal of the entry-level S trim and the upscale SL trim reshapes the range and pushes the starting price higher.
ith the S no longer available, the base price rises from $27,000 to $27,580, an increase of $580. However, when comparing the 2025 SV to the 2026 SV, the price bump is a much smaller $150.
Pricing for the SR now starts at $29,080, reflecting a $250 increase over the previous model year. That jump is relatively modest, especially considering the added standard equipment.
Across the board, every 2026 Altima is powered by the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 188 hp (140 kW / 191 PS) and 180 lb-ft (255 Nm) of torque.
Power is sent through Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission, with buyers able to choose between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Opting for AWD adds $1,400 to the price and slightly reduces output to 182 hp (136 kW / 185 PS) and 178 lb-ft (241 Nm).
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