Redesigned for the 2013 model year, the current Nissan Altima was updated for 2016. Somewhat surprisingly, the facelift added many new features, as well as a significantly redesigned exterior with styling cues borrowed from the gorgeous Maxima. Inside, the sedan gained a new center stack, softer materials for the Zero Gravity seats, and blue accents for the SR trim. The engine compartment is the only one that remained unchanged, but it's not something customers will complain about. For 2017, Nissan enhances the Altima by adding the Midnight Edition model.

Launched at the 2017 Chicago Auto Show, the Altima Midnight Edition is part of Nissan's new offensive to offer this special-edition package on six models. Initially created for the Maxima in 2016, the Midnight Edition was a huge success last year, accounting for 85 percent of Maxima SR sales. As a result, Nissan wants the bundle on more cars, including the Sentra, Altima, Rogue, Murano, and Pathfinder.

The idea of expanding the availability of the Midnight Edition package was driven by customers who loved the blackout treatment on Maxima SR and asked for it to be available on other popular Nissan vehicles,” said Christian Meunier, senior vice president of Nissan Sales & Marketing and Operations. “The six models offering Midnight Edition packages account for more than 75 percent of our U.S. sales, so we think they will find a receptive audience.”

Much like on the Maxima, the Altima's Edition Package is restricted to the SR trim, but only the version powered by the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The SR Midnight Edition is already available to order in the U.S. for small premium over the standard model.

Continue reading to learn more about the Nissan Altima SR Midnight Edition.

2017 Nissan Altima SR Midnight Edition

Specifications
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  • Model: 2017 Nissan Altima SR Midnight Edition
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What makes the Nissan Altima SR Midnight Edition special

The exterior of the Midnight Edition isn't significantly different than the 2.5 SR trim it is based on, but you will notice a few extra features. The first thing that catches the eye is the new set of 18-inch, black-painted wheels. Made from aluminum alloy and wrapped in low-profile, all-season tires, the new rims give the Altima a sportier look. The wheels are complemented by a black rear spoiler and black mirror caps. Exterior add-ons are rounded off by LED headlamps, which aren't included in the standard package of the regular Altima 2.5 SR. Five colors can be selected: Super Black, Gun Metallic, Pearl White, and Cayenne Red, but none are exclusive to this model, but taken from the standard palette.

(compare photos of Midnight Edition and standard model)

Inside, the only added feature is the Nissan Intelligent Key with Remote engine Start and Stop System. This is another optional item that's offered at no cost on the Midnight Edition. Finally, you can also get "Midnight Edition" floor mats, but you'll have to pay an extra fee for them. Other than this, the Midnight Edition comes with all the features found in the standard 2.5 SR trim, including the leather-wrapped steering wheel, eight-way power adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support, and paddle shifter with manual model.

The drivetrain remains standard, with the same 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine sending 179 horsepower and 177 pound-feet to the front wheels. The four-pot mates to the Xtronic CVT transmission.

Pricing for the Midnight Edition for this model is set at $990 ($25,460 versus the $24,470 sticker of the Altima 2.5 SR), which is pretty fair given the extra features. However, I think that Nissan could have done better here. As it stands, the Midnight Edition is too similar to the standard model.