2011 Nissan Altima Hybrid

Reviewers unanimously like the 2011 Nissan Altima Hybrid (Base MSRP: $26,800) for its pleasant handling, livable interior, good fuel economy and reliable track record. At the same time, newer hybrids like the 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid (Base MSRP: $28,600) and 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid (Base MSRP: $25,795) are considered better overall by experts as they achieve higher fuel economy and are more stylish inside and out. Furthermore, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is cheaper.

Only available in 11 states

The 2011 Nissan Altima Hybrid is also only available in 11 states, so many shoppers may have a hard time locating one; it is sold in California, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Maryland and New Mexico.

Since the Nissan Altima Hybrid carries on unchanged for the 2011 model year (and since its introduction, really), visit our full report on the 2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid (*Est. $26,650) for comprehensive details and expert analysis.

Newer hybrid sedans put up better fuel economy figures

The Altima Hybrid gets good fuel economy, but not the highest among midsize hybrid sedans. The EPA estimates that the Altima Hybrid will achieve 33 mpg in city, highway and combined driving. While this is good among typical gasoline powered midsize sedans, newer midsize hybrids post significantly better fuel economy numbers.

Safety rundown

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has tested the Nissan Altima Hybrid, and gives it the highest rating of Good for frontal offset and side impact crash tests. Roof strength and rear crash protection get the lower rating of Acceptable. The 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid and 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, both preferred by reviewers, earn IIHS's Top Safety Pick designation for scoring Good  in all test categories. The Nissan Altima Hybrid sedan also performs well in National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) testing: rollover resistance and front crash protection are both rated at 4 out of 5 stars, while side crash protection gets a full 5 star rating. Overall, NHTSA gives the Altima Hybrid a 4 star rating out of 5 for safety.