Looking for a practical, fuel-efficient sedan at an accessible price point? This 2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 S offers a compelling combination of everyday reliability, comfort-oriented features, and smooth CVT-powered driving — all at a budget-friendly price. Whether you're commuting across Richmond or running errands around town, the Altima's 27 MPG combined fuel economy helps keep costs manageable. Under the hood, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 175 horsepower paired with Nissan's signature Continuously Variable Transmission, providing a seamless, responsive driving experience without the interruption of traditional gear shifts. The front-wheel-drive layout offers confident handling in a variety of driving conditions. Inside, this 2.5 S trim brings a well-rounded feature set including air conditioning, keyless entry, keyless start, cruise control, power windows and door locks, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, and a CD/MP3 single-disc audio system with AM/FM stereo. Safety is addressed with a full suite of airbags — dual front, front side, and front/rear head curtain airbags — along with 4-wheel ABS, traction control, and an anti-theft system. With 4 doors and 15 cubic feet of trunk space, this sedan suits daily drivers who need practicality without compromise. Available now at 2 Brothers Automotive in Richmond, VA, this Altima is priced to move and ready for its next chapter.
Year
2012
Mileage
131,510 mi
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain
FWD
Engine
2.5L I4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Exterior
Unknown
Interior
Unknown
Body Type
sedan
VIN
1N4AL2AP6CC222098
Stock #
KW065
Features & Equipment
The 2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is a well-established midsize sedan that balances everyday practicality with efficient, comfortable driving. Powered by a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower, this Altima pairs with Nissan's Continuously Variable Transmission for smooth, uninterrupted acceleration ideal for city commutes and highway cruising alike.
The 2.5 S trim level equips buyers with a thoughtful selection of convenience and safety features, including keyless entry, keyless start, full airbag coverage, traction control, and 4-wheel anti-lock brakes. With a 20-gallon fuel tank and an EPA-estimated 27 MPG combined, this Altima is an economical choice for drivers who prioritize value and efficiency. Now available at 2 Brothers Automotive in Richmond, VA.
Complete Buyer's Guide
Why Buy This Vehicle
The 2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is a compelling choice for buyers seeking a practical, budget-friendly sedan that balances essential comfort features with a smooth driving experience. At its price point, it provides a well-equipped interior, efficient performance from its 2.5L four-cylinder engine, and a suite of standard safety features. It is designed for those who prioritize value and everyday utility, making it an excellent candidate for a secondary vehicle, a reliable daily driver, or a first car. With a focus on ease of operation through its CVT and user-friendly technology, it remains a sensible option in the used sedan market for those looking to keep their transportation costs manageable while maintaining comfort and convenience.
Who Is This Vehicle Perfect For?
This Altima is perfectly suited for students, professionals, or small families who need a dependable four-door sedan. Its blend of straightforward operation and essential features makes it ideal for anyone who values a no-nonsense approach to daily transportation. Commuters will appreciate the fuel-efficient engine, while budget-conscious buyers will value the accessible price point. Its comfortable cabin and inclusion of modern amenities like keyless start ensure that the car feels accessible and easy to live with for drivers of all experience levels. Whether you are navigating city traffic or handling general errands, this vehicle offers a balance of size and performance that meets the needs of a wide range of drivers who prioritize practicality and convenience over luxury.
Performance
The 2012 Altima 2.5 S is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 175 horsepower. This engine is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which eliminates traditional shift points for a smoother, seamless power delivery. This drivetrain setup is optimized for steady, reliable acceleration, making it well-suited for varied road conditions and everyday driving environments. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, ensuring the car remains composed during standard maneuvers. The focus of this powertrain is on providing consistent performance and a refined driving experience that minimizes the disruption of gear shifts, contributing to an overall sense of comfort for the driver and passengers alike during both short trips and longer journeys.
Technology
This Altima trim is equipped with technology designed to simplify the daily driving experience. The interior features a convenient keyless entry system combined with a keyless start function, allowing you to access and operate the vehicle with ease. For entertainment, the sedan includes an AM/FM stereo paired with a CD/MP3 single-disc player, providing standard options for your music and audio needs. Crucial driving information and comfort adjustments are managed via the tilt and telescoping steering wheel and integrated cruise control. These features ensure that both entertainment and vehicle management are intuitive, making the driving process as straightforward and stress-free as possible for the owner.
Fuel Economy
Efficiency is a hallmark of the 2012 Nissan Altima, which is rated for an estimated 27 MPG in combined driving conditions. The 2.5L four-cylinder engine, when mated to the efficient CVT, works to maximize fuel usage during both city traffic and steady highway cruising. This fuel-conscious design allows drivers to travel further between fill-ups, helping to keep ongoing operational costs manageable. Whether you are dealing with frequent stop-and-go driving or longer commutes, the Altima's focus on fuel efficiency serves as a key advantage for owners looking to minimize their environmental footprint and their overall expenditures at the gas pump over the course of vehicle ownership.
Interior
The interior of the 2.5 S trim is designed with a focus on passenger comfort and utility. It includes air conditioning as a standard feature, ensuring that cabin temperatures remain comfortable regardless of the season. Drivers benefit from a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, which allows for an ergonomic driving position, along with convenient power window and power door lock controls. The cabin layout emphasizes a clean, practical aesthetic that prioritizes ease of use. With seating for five, the vehicle offers a balanced space that is well-suited for daily use, keeping controls accessible and the cabin environment straightforward for all occupants.
Exterior
The 2012 Nissan Altima features the classic, flowing silhouette of a mid-size sedan. Its exterior design is characterized by a balance of aerodynamic lines and functional proportions that prioritize visibility and curb appeal. The model is equipped with steel wheels and a 4-door layout that makes entering and exiting the vehicle convenient for all passengers. The front-end styling aligns with the traditional Nissan aesthetic of that era, providing a recognizable and timeless look that remains practical for daily use. With its moderate dimensions, it is easy to maneuver in tight parking spaces while maintaining a substantial presence on the road.
Cargo Space
With 15 cubic feet of trunk space, the Altima provides a generous amount of room for your belongings. This cargo area is well-shaped, allowing it to easily accommodate several grocery bags, sports equipment, or luggage for weekend trips. The four-door sedan configuration makes accessing the trunk simple, ensuring that loading and unloading items is convenient for any lifestyle. Whether you are carrying daily work essentials or packing for a short getaway, the Altima's cargo capacity is a significant asset that offers enough versatility for most common hauling needs without sacrificing the comfort of the passenger cabin.
Ownership Costs
Owning a 2012 Altima 2.5 S can be a budget-friendly experience thanks to its focus on fuel efficiency and accessible parts availability. The 2.5L engine is a common power plant for the manufacturer, which often translates into straightforward service requirements. By maintaining a regular schedule for oil changes and essential component checks, owners can work to keep their vehicle running effectively. Additionally, the vehicle's design emphasizes functionality, which can contribute to moderate insurance premiums compared to more complex, high-performance vehicles. Overall, the combination of lower entry pricing, predictable fuel consumption, and general mechanical accessibility makes it a cost-effective choice for long-term ownership.
Local Driving
For navigating the streets of Richmond, VA, the Altima is a highly capable companion. Its smooth CVT allows for seamless movement through city traffic, where frequent speed changes are common. The power steering makes it easy to maneuver through residential areas and parking lots, while the compact sedan footprint ensures it fits well in standard city parking spaces. Whether you are commuting downtown or running errands, the inclusion of cruise control and air conditioning helps ensure a pleasant experience during local trips. Its predictable performance and comfortable ride quality make it well-suited for the stop-and-go nature of local driving in a busy metropolitan area like Richmond.
Winter Driving
When faced with colder temperatures in Virginia, the Altima is equipped with several features to help maintain safety and comfort. The front-wheel-drive system provides good traction for everyday winter conditions, while the 4-wheel ABS brakes and traction control system work together to help the driver maintain control on slippery surfaces. The inclusion of front and rear head curtain airbags, along with front side and dual front airbags, offers a comprehensive safety net for all occupants during winter commutes. While the vehicle is designed for standard road use, these safety systems provide drivers with additional peace of mind when navigating the challenges of wet or icy pavement during the colder months.
Road Trips
The Altima is built for comfortable cruising, making it a reliable partner for road trips. The 27 MPG combined fuel economy helps reduce the need for frequent stops, allowing you to cover more ground on a single tank. The interior is designed with passenger comfort in mind, featuring air conditioning and a spacious cabin that keeps occupants relaxed during longer drives. The AM/FM/CD audio system allows for personalized entertainment, and the generous 15-cubic-foot trunk ensures you have plenty of room for all your travel gear. With its steady performance and stable highway manners, this sedan is prepared to handle cross-state drives with ease and reliability.
Daily Commute
As a daily commuter, the Altima excels by combining efficiency with a comfortable, distraction-free interior. The CVT offers a smooth ride that avoids the fatigue of constant shifting, which is especially beneficial during the dense traffic common in urban areas. With keyless entry and start, you can get on the road quickly, while features like cruise control help maintain a steady pace during highway portions of your drive. Its size is well-balanced, providing enough cabin space for a stress-free trip without feeling overly cumbersome to park at an office or transit hub. For those who prioritize a predictable and efficient daily experience, this sedan is a highly functional tool.
Family Use
The 2012 Altima is a practical choice for families, offering a spacious four-door layout that accommodates up to five passengers. Safety is a significant focus, with the inclusion of dual front, front side, and front and rear head curtain airbags, alongside 4-wheel ABS and traction control. These features offer a solid layer of protection for you and your family. The 15-cubic-foot trunk is ample enough for family groceries, school supplies, or strollers. Its straightforward interface and reliable performance mean the vehicle can serve as a dependable family transport that prioritizes safety and ease of use in daily life.
Work Use
For those who use their vehicle for work, the Altima provides a professional appearance and a high degree of utility. Its comfortable interior serves as a suitable mobile office space, while the ease of keyless entry and start helps save time during busy work days. The efficient 2.5L engine ensures that business-related travel remains cost-effective, and the trunk space is ideal for transporting work materials or gear. Whether you are visiting clients or commuting to a job site, the sedan's combination of reliability, fuel efficiency, and essential comfort features makes it a logical and professional vehicle choice.
Best Features
The standout features of this 2012 Altima 2.5 S include the refined CVT, which provides a smooth, gear-shift-free driving experience, and the comprehensive safety suite, which features airbags for all outboard seating positions. Convenience is a major highlight, with the inclusion of keyless entry and keyless start, allowing for rapid access and operation. The balance of a 2.5L four-cylinder engine with a 27 MPG combined fuel economy rating offers a great trade-off between power and efficiency. Additionally, the cabin features like a tilt and telescoping steering wheel and cruise control offer high levels of customization for the driver, ensuring the vehicle is both practical and pleasant to operate.
Things To Consider
When evaluating this vehicle, it is important to consider your specific driving needs and preferences. While the CVT offers a smooth ride, some drivers who are accustomed to traditional gear shifts may notice a difference in how the transmission operates during acceleration. As a used vehicle, it is always recommended to review its mechanical condition to ensure it meets your expectations for performance and safety. Furthermore, assess whether the sedan body style and its specific feature set align with your requirements for cargo and passenger capacity. Evaluating these factors will help you determine if this particular model is the right fit for your personal lifestyle and long-term driving goals.
Competitors
The 2012 Nissan Altima competes in a highly popular segment of mid-size sedans. Its primary competition includes the Toyota Camry, known for its reputation for longevity, and the Honda Accord, which is frequently cited for its driving dynamics and interior ergonomics. Other common competitors in this class include the Ford Fusion and the Hyundai Sonata. Each of these models offers a unique approach to the sedan formula, with the Altima specifically standing out for its seamless CVT driving experience and focus on accessible comfort. When comparing these vehicles, potential buyers should weigh the specific feature sets, individual handling characteristics, and overall design aesthetics that best meet their preferences.
Buying Advice
When purchasing a used vehicle like this 2012 Altima, the most important step is to prioritize a thorough inspection and a test drive. During your test drive, pay close attention to how the CVT responds to your inputs and how the vehicle handles on local roads to ensure it meets your comfort standards. Check all the electronic features, such as the keyless start, windows, and audio system, to confirm they are in working order. Ask for any available maintenance records to understand how the car has been cared for by previous owners. By taking the time to thoroughly evaluate the vehicle and asking the right questions, you can make an informed decision that ensures you get the best value for your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 S have?
The 2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is powered by a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive.
What is the fuel economy of the 2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 S achieves an EPA-estimated 23 MPG city, 32 MPG highway, and 27 MPG combined, making it an efficient choice for daily commuting.
What features are included in the 2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 S trim?
The 2.5 S trim includes air conditioning, keyless entry, keyless start, cruise control, power windows and door locks, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, AM/FM/CD audio, traction control, 4-wheel ABS, and a comprehensive airbag system.
What is the VIN and stock number for this 2012 Nissan Altima?
The VIN for this vehicle is 1N4AL2AP6CC222098 and the stock number is KW065. You can reference these when contacting 2 Brothers Automotive in Richmond, VA.
Does the 2012 Nissan Altima 2.5 S have a salvage title?
According to the vehicle history report, this vehicle has a salvaged title issued and significant damage was previously reported. We encourage all buyers to review the full vehicle history report and inspect the vehicle in person before purchasing.
Dealer Price
$5,495
Est. $60/mo
Estimate only, subject to approved credit. See payment details below.
Estimated payment based on $2,000 down, 6.99% APR, and a 72-month term. Taxes, title, registration, fees, credit approval, and final financing terms may vary.
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Estimated payments are for informational purposes only and are not a commitment to lend. Actual rates and terms may vary based on creditworthiness.