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Front Comfort
Peek into the 2007 Nissan Altima and you’ll quickly come to one conclusion – the word’s out about American obesity. Spacious front bucket seats should accommodate most any adult; they’re wide and firm, though not so firm as to be uncomfortable. After putting quite a few clicks on the odometer, muscle fatigue remained at bay, and we appreciated the stiff bolsters on curvy highway ramps. Our tester’s power adjustable driver’s seat and tilt steering wheel allowed each editor to find a suitable position, and all applauded the sliding center armrest, the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and the padded sills.
Rear Comfort
Back-seat drivers are afforded a generous level of comfort in the 2007 Nissan Altima, with plenty of leg, foot, and head room as well as padded armrests and door sills. A fold-down center armrest serves outboard passengers on longer trips, and the rear bench’s soft cushions and natural recline position should keep occupants comfortable. The center “hump” seat is suitable for short rides, though it’s a little stiff and lacks a dedicated headrest, relegating it to short-straw status for extensive jaunts. Front seatbacks are padded for knee comfort on the outside edges, but the center sections are hard with just a thin cloth layer.
Interior Noise
Travel in the 2007 Nissan Altima for the most part is peaceful, accentuated by a relatively quiet cabin that allows for a stress-reducing ride home from work. There’s an utter lack of objectionable wind and tire noise, and the engine is muted until you mash the throttle, eliciting the expected whine from the high-revving four-cylinder. Overall the low noise level imparts a sense of refinement that measures well among others in this class. However, it shouldn’t be confused with the serenity of pricier luxury vehicles.
Loading Cargo
Every car has its weak points, though some are hidden better than others. The 2007 Nissan Altima’s weakest point becomes obvious as soon as you open the trunk. Inside, you’ll see old-school gooseneck hinges that fold down into cargo and a long yet shallow space that seriously limits what can be carried. The rear split-bench seat is admirable in theory, but loses its luster when one has to reach deep into the trunk to reach the release straps, a feat which must be accomplished while simultaneously pushing the seat backs forward. In a word, it’s awkward, and there are more convenient designs out there. To its credit, the Altima’s trunk features a wide opening, a storage net, and multiple tie-downs for securing cargo.
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