Real change lies beneath for Nissan Altima 3.5 SE

Look closer, however, and there are a host of changes to the Altima that freshen its appearance without discarding the styling that has struck a chord with many consumers. For 2007, there's a new nose that's more aerodynamic, highlighted by a new grille that shares its look with others in the family. The rear end has been freshened, too, yet there's a hint of previous designs.

If the '07 Altima appears more athletic, it's because the overall length of the car has been trimmed 63.5 millimetres and the wheelbase has been shortened 25 mm, yet interior space has been increased.

What you can't see, however, are the changes under its skin.

This fourth-generation Altima is built on Nissan's new D platform, which has had its body rigidity significantly increased. The engine's mounting points were lowered 30 mm and the front suspension has been redesigned with a new geometry that successfully addresses the torque steer issues of the previous model. The underpinnings in the rear have also been rejigged and stabilizer bars are now standard front and rear.

Nissan says these changes give the new Altima performance and nimbleness that rivals the best, large, front-wheel-drive sedans on the market. After a week living with a snappy red Altima 3.5 SE, it's difficult to argue the point.

While winter driving conditions curtailed any kind of aggressive manoeuvres, there are no complaints about the way the tester handled. Its ride was firm but not jarring, there was little body roll while negotiating highway access ramps and, in an extended run through stiff crosswinds, the Altima tracked straight and true.

The interior has been given a new look, too, and the result is pleasing.

There's a nice blend of colours in the instrument panel and the plastic materials have a nice texture and feel.

There are three basic Altima model available: the 2.5 S with a 175-horsepower, 2.5-litre four-cylinder (starting price is $24,398); the 3.5 S with a 270-hp, 3.5L V6 ($28,798) and the topline 3.5 SE, which starts at $30,198. Numerous packages can boost the final price tag on the 2.5 to $33,898 if you option it out (including a navigation system) or $39,298 for a fully dressed 3.5 SE.

The 3.5 SE tester had the leather upgrade (a $3,800 option), which also included such other amenities as a fine Bose audio system with the capability to play any format known to man, piping the sounds through nine speakers. The dual-range heated seats were especially appreciated on a few chilly mornings.

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