Cargo & Towing

The Altima's trunk measures 15.3 cubic feet, which is average for the class, but it shrinks to 13.1 cubic feet with the full-size spare tire that's included with the optional stability system. (Stability features don't work properly with one small tire.)

A 60/40-split folding rear seat is standard, but Nissan's method for releasing the seatbacks is rather unusual. Instead of having a handle at the top of the seatback to release the seats from the cabin, or one near the edge of the trunk opening to release them from the cargo area, there's a strap for either section of the seatback hanging from the top of the trunk that, when pulled, releases the backrests. They work just fine, but you have to reach pretty far into the trunk to pull them.

With proper equipment, both the four-cylinder and V-6 Altima can tow up to 1,000 pounds.

    See also:

    Power steering
    The power assisted steering uses a hydraulic pump, driven by the engine, to assist steering. If the engine stops or the drive belt breaks, you will still have control of the vehicle. However, much ...

    Key operation (if so equipped)
    Key operation (if so equipped) To open the trunk lid, turn the key clockwise. To close the trunk lid, lower and push the trunk lid down securely. ...

    Shifting
    After starting the engine, fully depress the brake pedal and move the shift selector from P (Park) to any of the desired shift positions. WARNING Apply the parking brake if the shift selector is ...