Q
Does a 2020 Nissan Altima have a CVT?
The 2020 Nissan Altima does come equipped with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), a technology Nissan has widely adopted in its midsize sedans in recent years. It's designed to deliver smoother acceleration and better fuel efficiency. For Malaysian drivers, the CVT really shines in city traffic – it cuts down on that annoying jerkiness when shifting, which is perfect for our stop-and-go roads here. Nissan has refined their CVT tech over the years, so it's more reliable now and responds quicker too. But, to keep it running strong long-term, you've gotta remember to regularly change the special transmission fluid during routine maintenance.
CVTs are becoming the go-to choice in this segment across brands, though each automaker tunes theirs a bit differently. If you're interested, I'd definitely recommend taking one for a test drive to get a feel for how it performs in person. Malaysia's hot weather can put some strain on transmission cooling, but the Altima's CVT system is engineered to handle those high-temperature conditions reliably. Just stick to the manufacturer's maintenance recommendations, and you should be good to go.
Q
What is the disadvantage of the Nissan Altima?
The Nissan Altima is a solid midsize sedan, no doubt about it. It delivers decent performance and a comfortable ride, but like any car, it's got its quirks. Some owners have mentioned that the CVT transmission can feel a bit jerky at low speeds, and let's be real, if you're the type who drives hard all the time, it might not hold up as well as a traditional automatic in the long run. Then there's the interior – it's pretty heavy on the hard plastics, which can make it feel a notch below some competitors in terms of perceived quality. And in Malaysia's hot weather? That light-colored interior is going to show wear and tear faster, looking dated sooner than you might like. Oh, and taller folks might find the rear headroom a bit tight back there.
But hey, none of these are total deal-breakers, especially if you're after a practical, no-fuss family car. In Malaysia, it's up against heavy hitters like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord, each with their own strengths. So, really, it comes down to what you prioritize. If fuel efficiency is your top concern, you might want to check out the hybrid options. More into that sporty feel? Then the turbocharged models are probably more your speed.
Q
What engines fit in a 2020 Nissan Altima?
The 2020 Nissan Altima in Malaysia comes with two primary engine options: a 2.0-litre VC-Turbo variable compression turbocharged four-cylinder and a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder. Both are factory-designed and matched powerplants, engineered to work seamlessly with the car's transmission and electronic systems. The 2.0L VC-Turbo is the star here, packing Nissan's innovative variable compression tech that adjusts between 8:1 and 14:1 compression ratios—striking that sweet balance between punchy performance and fuel efficiency, cranking out a solid 248 horsepower. On the other hand, the 2.5L naturally aspirated unit delivers a smooth 188 horsepower, making it the more laid-back choice for everyday commuting.
Now, while some specialist tuning shops might offer swaps for other engine types, you’ve gotta be extra careful with that. Any engine swap needs to strictly comply with Malaysia’s vehicle regulations and inspection standards. Plus, messing around with major mods like that could potentially void your factory warranty and even throw off the car’s overall reliability. So, if you’re a Malaysian Altima owner thinking about an engine change, my advice? Stick with the factory setups or go for certified, approved upgrade kits. It’s the best way to keep your ride safe, dependable, and out of legal hot water from unapproved mods.
Q
What type of oil goes in a 2020 Nissan Altima?
For the 2020 Nissan Altima in Malaysia, the recommended oil type is fully synthetic 5W-30 that meets API SN or SN Plus standards. This stuff delivers solid high-temperature protection and helps keep fuel economy in check – perfect for Malaysia's hot and humid weather. If your Altima's packing a turbocharged engine, or if you're often hitting the highways or pushing it with heavy loads, going full synthetic is the way to go to keep that engine running strong for the long haul.
Now, oil change intervals can vary a bit based on your driving style and the conditions you're in. As a general rule, we're talking every 10,000 kilometers or 6 months, whichever comes first. But hey, always double-check your owner's manual or Nissan's official guidelines to be sure. When picking your oil, make sure it stacks up to Nissan's specs – look for things like Nissan Ester Oil or similar certifications. That's how you ensure your engine gets the top-shelf protection it deserves.
Also, don't sleep on regular oil level and quality checks. Letting old, degraded oil hang around is a one-way ticket to increased engine wear. And a quick heads-up: oil requirements can differ between car brands and models, so mixing or substituting isn't a great idea. Stick to what's recommended, and your Altima will thank you with reliable performance for miles to come.
Q
Is the 2020 Altima expensive to maintain?
The 2020 Nissan Altima's maintenance costs in Malaysia fall right in the middle of the midsize sedan pack. Regular service bills are pretty reasonable – an oil change with basic checks will set you back around RM300 to RM400, though that can vary a bit depending on the service center and the type of oil you go for. For major services, like when you need to swap out transmission fluid or brake fluid, you're looking at more like RM800 to RM1,200.
Parts availability for the Altima is pretty solid here in Malaysia, which helps keep wait times and repair costs in check, though some genuine Nissan parts might be a touch pricier than what you'd pay for locally-assembled models. If you're an Altima owner with the 2.0L turbo engine, yeah, it's a techy unit, but sticking to the factory-recommended service intervals and using the specified oil is definitely the way to go to keep it running strong long-term.
Something to note: once your warranty's up, going to a reputable independent workshop can save you some cash on maintenance. Just make sure you keep all your service records complete – it'll help maintain that resale value when the time comes to sell. Compared to other Japanese midsizers in its class, the Altima's running costs are right in the mainstream. When budgeting, it's smart to think about the long-term ownership costs rather than just fixating on the price of a single service.
Q
What kind of issues do Nissans have?
Nissan has maintained a steady presence in the Malaysian market, though some models can develop a few common issues. For instance, CVT transmissions might start to exhibit hesitation or delayed shifting after prolonged heavy use – this is usually tied to maintenance intervals or driving habits. It’s advisable to regularly replace the transmission fluid and avoid aggressive driving styles. Additionally, the electronic systems in some older models, such as power window regulators or infotainment screens, can occasionally act up with minor glitches; most of these can be fixed with a software update or component replacement.
To maximize vehicle lifespan, owners should stick to the official maintenance schedule, keeping a close eye on critical components like engine oil levels, brake systems, and coolant. On a positive note, Nissan’s after-sales service network in Malaysia is quite comprehensive, meaning many common problems can be addressed quickly at authorized service centers. For consumers considering a used Nissan, prioritizing vehicles with complete service histories is key – pay extra attention to the transmission and electronic systems’ repair records to ensure long-term reliability.
Q
What is the most common problem with Nissan Altima?
A common headache for Nissan Altima owners in Malaysia? CVT transmission troubles. Some drivers report that annoying jerking or delayed shifting while on the move. Blame it on our tropical heat—constant high temps can really take a toll on the transmission fluid, causing it to degrade faster. The fix? Make sure you’re regularly checking that fluid and replacing it as per the manual.
Another thing to watch out for: the Electronic Steering Column Lock (ESCL) module. Every now and then, it might act up and leave you stuck with a no-start situation. This isn’t just a local issue—it’s been a bit of a global Achilles’ heel for the Altima. Luckily, a quick software update at your dealer should sort that out.
And let’s not forget Malaysia’s lovely rainy, humid weather. It’s great for the plants, not so much for your car’s undercarriage rubber bits. The moisture tends to speed up aging, so it’s smart to have your suspension bushings and driveshaft boots inspected around every 30,000 kilometers.
If you’re in the market for a used Altima, here’s the golden question: did the previous owner keep up with the transmission maintenance? CVTs are pretty particular about those service intervals, so skimping here can lead to big problems down the line.
Now, don’t let all this CVT talk scare you off. They’re actually super common in Southeast Asia for a reason—smooth as butter and great on fuel, perfect for city driving. Keep up with the maintenance, and you’ll drastically cut down the chances of issues.
If you’re buying new, have a chat with the dealer about Nissan’s latest CVT cooling system upgrades. Trust me, in our climate, that extra cooling is a total game-changer.
Q
Is the 2020 Altima 2.5 S a good first car?
The 2020 Nissan Altima 2.5 S makes a solid pick for young Malaysians stepping into their first car. Under the hood, you've got a 2.5L four-cylinder engine pushing out 188 horsepower – more than enough for your daily commutes and even those highway jaunts. The CVT gearbox keeps things nice and smooth, adding to that comfy drive feel, and let's not forget the fuel efficiency, which is pretty kind to your wallet – perfect if you're a first-time buyer watching your budget.
Safety-wise, it doesn't skimp on the essentials as standard: smart emergency braking, lane departure warning – all the good stuff that gives new drivers that extra peace of mind. Inside, the cabin's clean, functional, and surprisingly roomy, so it works for small families too.
In Malaysia, Nissan's got a pretty decent after-sales network, so servicing and repairs won't break the bank, and parts are easy to come by. That means less hassle down the road when you need to keep it running. As a midsize sedan, the Altima holds its value decently – not the best in class, but middle of the pack, so you'll get a reasonable chunk back when it's time to upgrade.
A quick heads-up though: Malaysia's tropical heat can be tough on cars. Make sure you keep the AC system checked regularly and keep an eye on rubber parts like belts and hoses. Also, given some of the local road conditions, splurging on a more durable set of tires might be a smart move.
Stacked against its competitors, the Altima isn't going to blow you away with sporty thrills like some European models, but where it shines is in balancing comfort and reliability. For a no-fuss daily driver, it's definitely up to the task.
Q
Are 2020 altimas good?
The 2020 Nissan Altima is a solid all-around midsize sedan that Malaysian buyers should have on their radar. It comes with either a 2.5L four-cylinder or a 2.0L turbocharged engine, both delivering smooth power and decent fuel economy – perfect for daily city commutes or longer highway drives. The ProPILOT Assist semi-autonomous system is a real standout on the highway, taking some of the strain out of driving and boosting safety. Inside, Nissan has used quality materials, and the seats follow their signature "Zero Gravity" design philosophy, so even long journeys won't leave you feeling worn out.
Now, a couple of things to note: since the Altima is imported into Malaysia, expect a slightly higher price tag, and maintenance costs might edge above locally-assembled rivals. It does have a leg up on the likes of the Camry or Accord when it comes to interior space and overall comfort, though it can't quite match the Mazda6 for sheer driving fun. If comfort and reliability are your top priorities, the Altima is definitely worth a look. Do yourself a favor and head to an authorized dealer for a test drive – feel it out for yourself to see if it clicks. And while you're at it, cross-shop against the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord to make sure you're getting the best fit.
Q
How much is a 2020 Altima worth?
In Malaysia's used car market, the 2020 Nissan Altima typically fetches between RM80,000 and RM120,000. The exact price hinges on factors like overall condition, mileage, trim level, and whether it's still under the original factory warranty. For instance, you could see around a RM20,000 difference between a base 2.0L model and a fully-loaded 2.5L variant.
Locally, this sedan has built a reputation for its comfortable ride and ProPILOT semi-autonomous driving tech. The 2.5L four-cylinder engine delivers a solid 188 horsepower, paired with a CVT gearbox that offers decent fuel efficiency—making it a solid pick for family drivers.
If you're eyeing a used Altima, pay extra attention to the CVT transmission's service history—it's a critical component here. Also, I'd strongly recommend a third-party inspection to check for any past flood damage or major accident history. For those considering financing, local banks usually offer 70-80% loan-to-value ratios on Japanese used cars under five years old.
Compared to rivals like the Camry or Accord, the Altima often comes with a more competitive used price tag. However, its lower market presence might mean longer wait times for replacement parts. To mitigate that risk, prioritizing factory-certified pre-owned units would be wise, as they often come with extended warranty coverage.