2006 Nissan Altima SE-R

The 3rd generation Altima provides consumers with an unrivaled combination that has quickly made it Nissan's best selling vehicle. For sport-minded drivers, Altima continues its performance tradition in 2006 with a choice of a 260-horsepower Nissan Altima SE-R. The Altima SE-R is the sixth model in the 2006 Altima lineup (others include 2.5, 2.5 S, 2.5 SL, 3.5 SE and 3.5 SL), yet in reality it stands alone with a special list of features and equipment designed for the sports car enthusiast, such as forged 18-inch wheels, aggressive front fascia, rear spoiler, high-flow mufflers, large diameter chrome dual exhaust finishers and black leather-appointed sport seats.

The most prominent difference between the SE-R and other Altima models is the SE-R's three-pod center-mounted gauge package, similar to that found on the legendary Nissan Z, with volt meter, oil pressure and fuel consumption gauges. Other changes include sport-shaped front seats and headrests. The front seats are heated, as are the SE-R's outside mirrors.

For all Nissan Altima drivers, there's a tilt and telescoping 3-spoke steering wheel and gated automatic transmission shifter with a formed gearshift knob design. HVAC and audio controls are grouped in a simple unit that reduces visual complexity for the driver. Audio systems include a standard 6-speaker AM/FM/CD with an available in-dash 6-disc CD changer with radio data system (RDS), speed-sensitive volume control and steering wheel audio controls. Optional is a Bose premium audio system with 8 speakers and AM/FM/in-dash 6-disc CD changer with RDS, speed-sensitive volume control and steering wheel audio controls.

The Nissan Altima SE-R model adds an array of special body styling features over other Altima models, including a sporty front fascia, headlight bezel coloring, compact fog lights and dark window molding coloring. In the rear, the SE-R stands out with a unique rear fascia and spoiler, smoked taillights and large dual exhaust finishers. Also visible are side sill spoilers, silver painted front and rear disc brake calipers, with the SE-R logo on the front calipers. SE-R badging is located on the rear of the vehicle.

The Nissan Altima SE-R's standard 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine has been tuned to offer 260 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque. The SE-R also offers a performance exhaust system with large outlet pipes. The 3.5-liter V6 is part of the VQ engine series, which has been recognized as one of the “Ten Best Engines” by Ward's Auto World magazine for 12 consecutive years. V6-powered Altimas qualify for Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) status. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on the Altima SE-R (with the 5-speed automatic transmission optionally available). The rear multi-link independent suspension was adapted from the Japanese-market Nissan Skyline supercar and is similar to Infiniti Q45 sedan.

The Altima SE-R comes with 225/45 R18 Y-speed rated summer tires mounted on unique 18-inch forged alloy wheels. Braking for the Altima SE-R is provided by large (12.60 x 1.10t front, 11.5 x 0.35t rear) 4-wheel disc brakes with standard 4-wheel, 4-channel, 4-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).