The 2009 Nissan Altima is a 4-door family sedan aimed squarely at the middle of the market price range. The 2009 version of the Altima continues its life with very few changes to its successful configuration, which has existed since a substantial redesign in 2007.

The Altima is Nissans volume seller in this market segment, and one of the most popular vehicles overall. I shouldnít be any surprise then that the Altima is a generally robust and decent value vehicle, but it is let down by a few classic Nissan mistakes.

Firstly, the Altima features yet another strangely unsatisfactory Nissan engine. The standard model is equipped with a 2.5-liter, 175-hp engine that achieves 23-mpg city and 31-mpg highway. The 3.5 SL is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 270-horsepower engine that achieves 19-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. Fine horsepower figures, but the mileage betrays somewhat under achieving engines.

Fortunately the 2009 Nissan Altima offsets this one problem with excellent build quality throughout the bodywork and in its parts usage. Relative luxury is available to car occupants, which high quality fixtures and decent extras included in most trims. Expect the Altima to last a very long time, but don’t expect it to surprise you, not even once.