On the subject of improvement Bill Kirrane, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. stated, "Despite a rookie season that was highlighted by great reviews, record sales and winning the most prestigious media award, we're not about to let the 2003 Altima rest on its laurels." He continued, "Once you've set the bar in class, everyone is chasing you - we're determined to keep Altima in front through continuous upgrades and enhancements, starting in year two, with more power, more refinement and simplified equipment choices for our customers."

The latter item Kirrane mentioned includes three models in Canada, starting with the base 2.5 S and then followed by the 2.5 SL and top-of-the-line 3.5 SE. On top of the base car's full list of features Nissan offers a $1,500 stand alone Personal Security Package that includes front and rear curtain airbags, side airbags, ABS brakes, Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD). A Convenience Package is also available for the same price, that includes speed-sensitive audio control, illuminated driver and passenger vanity mirrors, auto up/down passenger side window, a cargo net, visor Extenders, front and rear curtain airbags, side airbags, security system, 8 way power driver's seat with lumbar support, a trip computer with outside temperature display, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and 16" x 6.5" Luxury aluminum-alloy wheels. Other than a $285 charge for Satin White paint a 4-speed automatic transmission is the only other option at $1,000. If you total up all the available options the price of the 2.5 S comes to a very reasonable $28,023.