Redesigned for 1998, the Altima stands out with aerodynamic styling. Lots of glass provides the driver with excellent visibility. Yet the car has a lovely balance from the sloped front end to its short and high rear deck. A half-window extension on the rear passenger side leads to a full but graceful C-pillar and to the long rear window and sloping rear deck. This transition to the rear with a well-drawn C-pillar is what gives the Altima its sense of balance. Narrowed and rounded at the back, the wrap-around taillights are bordered by the angled trunk opening, creating a trademark rear view that doesn't rely on a company logo, unusual in the sedan class these days. A low-key rear spoiler is found only on the SE.With a drag coefficient of just 0.32, the Altima doesn't sacrifice aerodynamic efficiency for styling. Body-matching bumpers, side mirrors, door handles and trim give the SE an upscale appearance. The Altima line's standard flush-mounted halogen headlights are complemented on the SE by fog lights, well-integrated on the lower bumper and in the same location where the parking lights are found on the other models. A body-color front grille bar further distinguishes the SE. Six-spoke 15-inch aluminum alloy wheels (which are the same size as the standard wheels) comprise the most noticeable departure from the rest of the line and give the SE a performance appearance without getting too jazzy.
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