http://www.nissannews.com/cgi/frames...829165846.html

The loaded V6 costs close to an SE Maxima

 

I couldn't believe the price of a Altima ~28,400. This makes me feel good about my purchase. When cars approach the 30K mark, the others (BMW,Benz, Audi, ..) become more attractive. That's about the price of a TL, and it has a 5-sp auto, with a few more features.

I am disappointed with Nissan's pricing. It's a good deal (value) that's going to make this car (V6) sell. Pay a few grand more and get a "name", better re-sale, and ....

Message to all(mostly performance nuts), save your money, buy a used Max, trick it out, and beat almost everybody.

 

I never load up a car. I get the more common options though. Here's the way I would order an Altima.

3.5 SE 3.5-liter DOHC V6 5-speed man. $22,349

Convenience Package
16-inch alloy wheels/tires, 8-way power driver's seat with manual lumbar, auto on/off headlights, dual illuminated visor vanity mirrors with sun visor extensions, leather-wrapped steering wheel, front passenger's window auto-up, key operated front windows up/down, key fob operated window down, multi-function trip computer with steering wheel controls, 6-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system with speed-sensitive audio volume, steering wheel controls Vehicle Security System with Immobilizer and cargo net 2.5 S $1,679

Anti-Lock Braking System & Side Air BagsIncludes Brake Assist and Electronic Brake force Distribution, front seat side-impact and roof-mounted side-impact curtain air bags 2.5 S, 2.5 SL, 3.5 SE $749

High Intensity Discharge (HID) xenon headlights (Requires Sunroof ) 3.5 SE $499

Destination $540

Altima SE Total $25,816

This is close to price of the way I would configure a 2002 SE 6 speed though.

2002 Maxima SE 6 speed $25,449

Helical Limited Slip Differential $399

Floormats $79

(Has everything I want in the base SE: CD, HID, ABS, AC, keyless remote, power locks/windows)

Destination $540

2002 Maxima SE Total $26,068

Tough call for me. A test drive is a must.

 

I went to see the 02 Max yesterday and was quoted 26,500 for a fully loaded SE. BTW, this is in FL. If I were at home in Hawaii, it would probably be 28,500 or something around there.

 

I was reading a report in Motor Trend of the Altima. They tested a pre production one with a 5 speed to do 0-60 in like 6.28 secs! And the quarter in like 14.7 <--that can hang with a Porsche Boxter!!!!!!!!

 

I think the prices will be VERY nice once they start clearing out the 2002's and start moving in the 2003's. Never be the first to buy a brand new car!! You'll only end up paying too much. Ideally you should end up paying roughly 20% under MSRP, but if you go out and buy a brand new car as soon as it's released, the dealer will rip you off!

These previous statements are IMHO of course