Built primarily to satisfy the demands of the American market Altima is really a substantial sedan which favours quality of ride over precision of cornering.

Clean styling, having a commendably restrained utilization of chrome plating and also the adoption of 16″ or 17″ wheels helps reposition the vehicle alongside Honda’s larger sedans – something which earlier incarnations of the Altima couldn’t achieve.

Engine options are either a cooking 145PS 2.4 litre four or even the more desirable 3.5 litre V6, and drivers can choose a five speed manual shift or a computerized four speed unit.

Or you might buy the far more satisfying 6-speed 250PS SE-R V6 derivative, that is altogether more sporting anyway, right down to 18″ cast alloy wheels and stiffened suspension.