With 5-star ratings from the NHTSA, the 2010 Nissan Altima coupe offers an impressive list of both passive and active safety features. This front wheel driven, 5-passenger coupe is also surprisingly refined and sporty. It enters into 2010 with a newly refined hood, front bumper and grille as well as numerous other enhancements. Called "Sportier than the competition", the Altima features a handsomely-sculpted rear end, prominently-arched wheels and wide shoulders. Coupe Altimas also show off a roofline that is a full 2.6 inches shorter than the more family-oriented sedan versions. When compared, competition including the Honda accord, Toyota Camry and Ford Fusion all seem a bit bland. A highly responsive, sport-tuned suspension system provides nimble ride quality and effective communication with the driver.

Engine choices for the 2010 Altima coupe by Nissan include a 2.5L 175hp I4 (one of the strongest in its class) and a beefy 3.5L 270hp V6. The base 2.5L 4-cylinder engine generates 180 lb-ft of twist at 3900 RPM while the V6 option produces 258 lb-ft at 4400. With either choice, you'll have a maximum towing capacity of 1000 pounds and require 18.1 feet of radius for turning. To complete the powertrain, you can also choose between a standard 6-speed manual and a CVT (continuously variable) transmission. For years now, Nissan has provided solid leadership in CVT design and manufacturing standards, making the automatic-like CVT a very popular choice.

Besides its long lists of optional safety features, stock features for safety on the Nissan Altima for 2010 include:

• Active frontal head restraints;
• Driveline and ABS traction control;
• 4-wheel anti-lock braking;
• Electronic stability control;
• Six separate airbags;
• Seat-belt pre-tensioners and the front;
• Tire pressure monitoring;
• And more;

The 2010 Altima excels at pleasing drivers with sharp handling abilities. It confidently takes you through extreme driving conditions with predictable steadiness. EPA estimations for fuel economy are 23/32 mpg urban/rural and with its 20-gallon fuel reservoir, it will easily allow you to travel well in excess of 400 miles per fill up. On the down side, coupe Altimas are quite limited in spaciousness and are not recommended for families with large children. In fact, even though they are rated for five passengers, these sporty coupes are far better suited for 2 passengers only. Frontal occupants will experience 37 inches of headroom, 54 inches of shoulder room, 54 inches of hip room and a very comfortable 42.5 inches of legroom. Further, there is only a somewhat cramped 8.2 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity located in the trunk.

The 2010 Nissan Altima coupe competes with the likes of the Dodge Avenger, Ford Fusion and Toyota Camry and features manufacturer's suggested retail pricing ranging between $19,900 and $29,600. Overall exterior measurements are reported at 190.7 x 70.7 x 55.9 inches in length, width and height while its 105.3 inch wheelbase carries its 3294 pound curb weight in balanced, efficient fashion. Its sporty, exciting and responsive. It's safe, attractive and loaded with value. It's the new Altima coupe from Nissan and it's worth your serious consideration for purchase.