Styling revisions, though subtle, give the 2005 Altima a more aggressive look. Cast more in the style of European sedans, the Altima looks more like something from Volkswagen or Audi than Honda or Toyota. The hood has been redesigned, giving the 2005 Altima a more athletic look, by suggesting it's packing a powerful engine. A new front fascia and smoked headlamps adds to the bold impression and a new grille looks more in keeping with the rest of the newest Nissan lineup. The taillamps have been smoked slightly.

The grille and front bumper are set off nicely by aggressive-looking multi-parabola projector-type headlights with four bulbs set behind large covers. Altima's grille is large by contemporary standards, but not the least bit awkward. Newly styled 16- and 17-inch wheels give the 2005 Altima a sportier look.

Its sloping roofline is reminiscent of a coupe. The high trunk lid is set off by bold round taillights, turn signals and backup lights set in a triangular-shaped cover.

The trunk has a large opening and low lift-over height. Offering 15.6 cubic feet, the Altima near the top of the mid-size class in trunk space. Flexibility is increased by the standard split-folding rear seat (with a lock on all but the base car). The trunk lid lifts on its own when popped with the remote key fob, and the gooseneck hinges that allow this action intrude minimally into the usable trunk space.

Altima is assembled with a one-piece bodyside structure for more consistent build quality. Altima has gained on Camry and Accord in exterior build quality and Nissan claims panel-fit accuracy within 1.0 mm. The Altima also has more exterior design detail than the Toyota and Honda, with creased mirrors, integrated foglamps and other subtle cues.