2010 Nissan Altima: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2010 Nissan Altima gets a mid-cycle refresh led by revised front-end styling for the sedan, coupe, and Hybrid. Gas models also gain standard stability and traction control, while the engines and transmissions carry over.
About the 2010 Nissan Altima
4th generation Altima (2007-2012), refresh year.
Nissan positioned the Altima as the midsize car for drivers who wanted everyday practicality without a bland driving experience. The sedan covered family-duty use, the coupe added a more personal and sporty shape, and the lineup stretched from a simple four-cylinder commuter to a V6 sport model and a fuel-saving hybrid. What set Altima apart in Nissan’s messaging was its sharper styling, responsive road manners, and convenience features such as push-button start and Intelligent Key on many trims.
The 2010 lineup ranges from the straightforward four-cylinder 2.5 sedan to the better-equipped 2.5 S sedan and coupe. The 3.5 SR pairs a 270-hp V6 with sport-tuned suspension, while the 198-hp Hybrid emphasizes better city fuel economy and adds dual-zone automatic climate control.
What changed, by category
2010 Nissan Altima specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Hybrid, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Hybrid |
| MPG City | 23 mpg | 23 mpg | 18–20 mpg | 35 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 32 mpg | 31–32 mpg | 27 mpg | 33 mpg |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 175 hp | 270 hp | 198 hp |
| Torque | 180 lb-ft | 180 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft | 162 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb | |||
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.3 cu-ft | 8.2–15.3 cu-ft | 8.2–15.3 cu-ft | 10.1 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.8 in | 34.4–35.8 in | 34.4–35.8 in | 35.8 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 2–4 | 2–4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic Headlights | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||
| AM/FM Radio | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Built-In Hard Drive | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| USB Ports | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||
| Rear Air Conditioning | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2010 Nissan Altima a major redesign?
No. The 2010 Altima is a mid-cycle refresh of the fourth-generation model, not a full redesign. Its main updates are revised styling, updated cabin details, and broader standard stability control.
Did the 2010 Nissan Altima get different engines?
No. The 2010 Altima keeps the previous year's core powertrains: a 175-hp four-cylinder, a 270-hp V6, and a 198-hp gas-electric hybrid system.
Does every 2010 Nissan Altima have stability control?
Yes. Stability control is standard across the 2010 gasoline Altima lineup, and the Hybrid also has a standard stability-control system. Traction control is included on the gasoline models.
What happened to the Altima 3.5 SE for 2010?
The 3.5 SE was renamed 3.5 SR for 2010. It remains the sport-focused V6 Altima, with a 270-hp engine and sharper suspension tuning.
Was the Altima 3.5 SL still offered for 2010?
No. The 3.5 SL trim was dropped for 2010, while the 3.5 SE continued under the new 3.5 SR name.