2012 Nissan Altima: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2012 Nissan Altima is the loss of the Hybrid; Nissan also dropped the 2.5 SL trim. Otherwise, the gas-powered sedan and coupe carry over with no major redesign or mechanical update.
About the 2012 Nissan Altima
4th-generation Altima family, final sedan year before the all-new 2013 redesign; the coupe uses this same basic generation into 2013.
Nissan positions the 2012 Altima as the midsize car for shoppers who want everyday usefulness without giving up a more responsive, slightly sporty feel. The sedan covers commuter and family-duty needs, while the coupe offers the same basic formula in a shorter, lower two-door shape. Across the range, Nissan leans on smooth CVT operation, available V6 power, push-button start, and convenience-focused features to separate Altima from more appliance-like rivals.
The 2012 Altima ranges from the basic 2.5 commuter sedan to the mainstream 2.5 S, which adds keyless entry and a six-speaker audio system. The 3.5 SR is the performance-focused version, with a V6, firmer suspension tuning, and extra comfort features.
What changed, by category
2012 Nissan Altima specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter | V6, 3.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT | Automatic, CVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 23 mpg | 23 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 32 mpg | 32 mpg | 27 mpg |
| Horsepower | 175 hp | 175 hp | 270 hp |
| Torque | 180 lb-ft | 180 lb-ft | 258 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1000 lb | 1000 lb | 1000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 15.3 cu-ft | 8.2–15.3 cu-ft | 8.2–15.3 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 35.8 in | 34.4–35.8 in | 34.4–35.8 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 2–4 | 2–4 |
| 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 | |||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Folding Rear Seat | |||
| 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
What is the biggest change to the 2012 Nissan Altima?
The biggest change is that Nissan dropped the Altima Hybrid. The 2.5 SL trim also left the lineup, while the remaining gas-powered sedan and coupe models changed little.
Is there a 2012 Nissan Altima Hybrid?
No, the Altima Hybrid was dropped for 2012. The remaining lineup uses either a 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V6.
Was the 2012 Nissan Altima redesigned?
No, the 2012 Altima was not redesigned. It is the final model year for this sedan generation before the all-new 2013 sedan arrived, while the coupe continued on the older design.
How is the 2012 Nissan Altima different from the 2011 model?
The 2012 Altima is largely the same as the 2011 model, but the Hybrid and 2.5 SL trims were dropped. There were no major changes to the gas engines, styling, safety hardware, or vehicle structure.
Which 2012 Nissan Altima trim has the V6?
The 3.5 SR is the 2012 Altima’s V6 trim. It also has firmer suspension tuning, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.