Nissan Unveils 2016 Altima

Nissan Motor Co. has taken the wraps off the 2016 Altima midsize sedan, which it calls one of the most extensive mid-cycle makeovers in the company's history.

The freshening features a restyled exterior, including a new grille and fenders, revised hood, boomerang-shaped headlights and optional LED daytime running lights. The rear gets a new bumper, modified trunk and restyled taillights that Nissan says yields a more "expressive, higher quality" look.

The new model is 10% more aerodynamic (0.26 Cd) than its predecessor, thanks to a new active grille shutter and tweaks to underbody panels, according to the company.

The interior gets a revised center stack, redesigned steering wheel, reshaped seats, updated door upholstery and other upgraded materials. Acoustic glass is used throughout the vehicle to block exterior noises.

Several of Nissan's advanced safety systems have migrated to the Altima from the company's upscale Infiniti marquee and other high-end models. These first-time features include forward collision warning, emergency braking, radar-based blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert.

Buyers can choose between two engines: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder unit and a 3.5-liter V-6. The smaller mill makes 182 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque, while the V-6 generates 270 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated with a continuously variable transmission. The 4-banger is expected to have a highway fuel economy rating of 39 mpg, which Nissan says is a 1 mpg improvement over the previous model.

A new SR sport package features a rear stabilizer that is 258% stiffer than that of the base Altima. It also gets higher-end tires and wheels, a rear spoiler and a unique front fascia to better compete against sport versions of its main rivals the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.

The new Altima is due to launch in mid-November. Pricing will start at about $23,000.