the gap between the compact Sentra sedan and the larger Maxima. Assembled

in Smyrna, Tennessee, the mid-size front-wheel drive Altima contends in

the fiercely competitive family sedan market against other smaller mid-size

entries such as the Ford Contour, Mercury Mystique, Mazda 626, Chryler

Cirrus and Dodge Stratus--to name just a few.

Positioned as "The Affordable Luxury Sedan," the Altima promises

Japanese-quality construction, spry performance and a touch of cachet--all

at an affordable price. The car has been a strong player for Nissan ever

since its debut, and was singled out by J.D. Power in 1996 as the Best

Mid-size Car Under $20,000 in terms of initial quality. Although newer

designs have come along since its introduction, and a major makeover is

just around the corner, this is still an appealing sedan that combines

solid engineering, competent performance and value in a stylish package.