The Xtronic CVT is designed to create a true synergy between engine and transmission with smooth, responsive, fluid-feeling performance and efficient operation. The CVT units utilized with both engines have been tailored specifically for use with the new Altima. Unit friction has been reduced by 30% for the 4-cylinder CVT and 20% for the V6 design.

The V6 CVT has been enhanced with an all-new "Sport" mode controller with a high-speed central processing unit and Adaptive Shift Controller with adaptive logic for faster shifting in both normal and manual modes. The adaptive logic feature delivers the best shift pattern based on the driving environment and driver's perceived intentions. It utilizes 700 programmed algorithms to adjust to differing conditions, such as uphill or downhill driving, as well as adapting to three styles of driving - economy, normal and sporty.

"The combination of the new adaptive logic CVT and the refined 3.5-liter V6 gives the new Altima just an exceptionally responsive and fun-to-drive feel - sporty but not harsh, smooth but not rubbery," said Bosley. "These two advanced systems - V6 and CVT - were made for each other."

Nissan remains the industry leader in CVTs, with three separate CVT designs currently in production. Nissan began studying CVT technology in 1979 and offered its first production CVT in 1992 and world's first 3.5-liter V6 CVT application in 2002.

More than just the efficiency advantages of CVT over conventional automatic transmissions, CVTs offer owners, as studies of Murano drivers have shown, real benefits in terms of smooth, responsive, trouble-free performance. CVTs will also be offered in the 2007 Maxima, Sentra and Versa. By 2008, Nissan expects to sell one million CVT-equipped vehicles worldwide annually.



Enhanced Structure, Steering and Braking

The new Altima's improved body structure includes the expanded use of Ultra High Strength Steel, which is utilized in many locations including side-impact areas. Use of this steel is also allows for a 30% weight reduction in the frontal body structure. Overall, the new Altima is only about 55 pounds heavier than the previous generation.

"Just like the previous generation Altima, the new design combines a strong structure with extensive use of lightweight materials, giving it a nimble yet solid feel," said Bosley. "The fact that the 2007 Altima remains about the same weight despite enhanced rigidity is a testament to the engineering of the new platform."

A new twin-orifice vehicle-speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering system is standard, providing light steering effort at low speeds and a secure feeling at high speeds, along with improved "on center" feel.

Braking for the 2007 Altima is provided by standard 4-wheel disc brakes. Standard on V6 models and optional on 4-cylinder models is a 4-wheel, 4-channel, 4-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). ABS-equipped Altimas feature Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), which optimizes brake force depending on load condition (passengers and cargo) and Brake Assist, which senses hard or panic pedal application and helps provide maximum braking capacity.

A new variable ratio pivot brake pedal, the first utilized on a Nissan vehicle, provides a more rigid feel at freeway speeds and less sensitive, more controllable operation in city driving.

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