The second generation (codenamed L30) was an American market-only version, re-styled by Nissan Design Center California. A new interior brought a revised glovebox and cup holders, a folding rear seat (except on XE), and depowered airbags. Despite changes in the airbag system design, there are still concerns about safety in the second generation Nissan and has issued further safety recalls.Air Bag Safety Related Recall: Air Bags for 2002 Nissan Altima. Also Recall ID # 96V185000 NHTSA ID Number: 96V185000. While the total volume remained stable at 108 cubic meters, most found it more diversified and resulted in a slightly wider-cabin feel. On the flip side, many were clearly let down by the new model cheapened and interior styling, some also felt the accelerator was now slightly arched.
Trim lines were the stripper XE, volume-selling GXE, sporty SE and luxury GLE-cut. The SE can be distinguished by its body-color grille, fog lamps, rear spoiler, alloy wheels, and white-faced gauges. In this generation Altima, Gless had all leather seats standard. For 1999 uplevel cassette / CD stereo got a new face plate, GXE and SE models gained variable intermittent wipers, and Gless gained standard alloy wheels.
The majority of the changes were for the 2000 model year. The engine power increased from 150 to 155 hp (116 kW) with 4-way sparks, and improved the 0-60 time from 8.7 to 8.4 seconds. Gearing and final drive ratios were reduced in both transmissions were thickened stabilizer bars, and control was confirmed up. SE and GLE models also upgraded to 16-inch wheels with lower profile tires, new Monroe struts with “acceleration-sensitive valve strut, and a front strut tower brace for sportier handling (all optional on GXE).
The Altima grew a little longer and got a deeper grille, one piece headlights with lamps, all-red taillights, and plastic trim on the decklid. Inside, new front seats with height of the driver to adjust, cup holders for rear passengers (automatic transmission models), revised seat fabric, a new instrument panel with digital odometer, a new rear window antenna, and the keyless entry fob also a trunk release. Side airbags are standard on new GLE and available on GXE and SE. For 2001, the Altima GXE gained back a Limited Edition package: power driver seat, Keyless entry with alarm and floor mats.
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