A blue 2021 Nissan Altima is shown from the front driving on a city street after leaving a car dealership.

Take a Look at What’s New for the 2021 Nissan Models

If you have been thinking about purchasing a new vehicle, then we urge you to take a look at the latest 2021 Nissan models. Car dealerships are already stocking up on these new vehicles because they are sure to be big sellers in the coming year. As one of the most popular foreign automakers in the United States, there is something for just about everyone. Let’s take a look at some of the newest changes to the 2021 fleet.

2021 Nissan Altima

The first model that underwent some changes for the 2021 production year is the Nissan Altima. The trim levels have been rearranged with the SV model switching places with the SR. It can also be equipped with the Premium package if you prefer something sportier. This package also adds heated front seats, a moonroof, and Intelligent Lane Intervention.

You can also choose between two powertrains. The first is a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo inline 4-cylinder, and the second is a 2.5-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder. If you are looking for performance, the Turbo motor is your best bet. It pushes out V6-level numbers like 236 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the regular 4-cylinder makes 188 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. Drivetrain options include front-wheel drive and Intelligent all-wheel-drive.

Now let’s talk about safety. The Nissan Safety Shield 360 is available on all five trim levels. This adds a slew of protective systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, driver alert, and so much more. Furthermore, ProPILOT Assist is also available. This enables you to drive more confidently. Finally, advanced smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is included for hands-free text messaging, calling, audio streaming, and app usage.

2021 Nissan Maxima

The newest upgrade to the 2021 Nissan Maxima is the iconic 40th Anniversary Edition. This sleek ride features two-tone Ruby and Slate Gray Pearl colors on the outside with a contrasting black roof. Inside the cabin, you will find red semi-aniline leather upholstery for an eye-catching look. The interior accents are done in Satin Dark Chrome, and the speedometer and tachometer are both white. This model also has heated seats throughout the cabin for comfort all year long. Riding on large 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with a gloss black finish, this special edition model will never be made again. Unique badging on the exterior finishers lets everyone know that this is a rare style. Even the exhaust finishers are done in black to complete the aesthetic.

The new Maxima is powered by a 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine that delivers 300 hp. Intelligent Trace Control, Active Ride Control, and Intelligent Engine Brake are part of the Integrated Dynamics Control Module that is included on every trim. As for safety, the Nissan Safety Shield 360 is standard with blindspot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, rear automatic braking, high beam assist, and the aforementioned safety systems on the Altima. Other available safety features include traffic sign recognition, lane intervention, and a surround-view parking camera system. Cruise control is available as well.

A red 2021 Nissan GT-R is driving on a woodland road.

2021 Nissan GT-R

If you have been thinking about something sportier, then the 2021 Nissan GT-R is a great choice! The Premium model comes with a 3.8-liter DOHC twin-turbo V6 engine that generates 565 hp and 467 lb-ft of torque. Equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission, paddle shifters, and a dual-clutch, this vehicle is a street-legal race car. It even comes in a new color known as Bayside blue.

Meanwhile, the NISMO model features carbon fiber body panels, carbon-ceramic brakes, and a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 that pumps out 600 hp and 481 lb-ft of torque. It’s the ultimate performance car that provides you with an exhilarating experience. The fine-tuned suspension system allows for better cornering and a smoother ride. Precision steering allows you to make the smallest corrections at high speeds, and the Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes provide optimized stopping power.

Inside, you will find heated Recaro seats covered in leather. These seats are reclining for your comfort, and they even have luxurious suede inserts. Ergonomically sculpted holds you in place; you will feel like you are one with the vehicle. The steering wheel and gear shift knob are also covered in leather with red accents, and the tachometer is red as well. Technology includes Nissan Connect with advanced smartphone integration and navigation.

2021 Nissan Rogue

For folks looking for a petite family vehicle, the 2021 Nissan Rogue has everything you need. With technology such as Intelligent Key and tri-zone climate control, you’ll be hard-pressed to find something you don’t love about it. Again, Nissan Safety Shield360 is standard, and ProPILOT Assist with Navi-Link is optional. You can also add Apple CarPlay and a wireless charging pad.

Under the hood, you will find a 2.5-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine that produces 181 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque. Fitted with an Xtronic transmission with manual mode, you can choose between front-wheel drive or Intelligent all-wheel drive. Finally, an entirely new trim level has been added to the lineup. The Platinum model is the top-tier trim that features leather upholstery, a Bose stereo, heated back seats, navigation, Apple CarPlay, and a wireless charging pad.

A gold 2021 Nissan Ariya is plugged into a modern house.

2021 Nissan Ariya

The biggest change that has been made to the 2021 Nissan models is the addition of an entirely new vehicle. The 2021 Nissan Ariya is the first-ever electric crossover to join the Nissan family. Its older sibling, the Leaf, paved the way for this family-friendly ride. With 300 miles of range, you won’t have to worry about charging as often.

There are several drivetrain configurations to suit your specific needs. You can opt for two-wheel drive or the “e-4ORCE” all-wheel drive. You can also choose between a 63 kWh or 87 kWh battery. Meanwhile, the dual electric motors ensure an enhanced performance that is similar to a sports car.

Thanks to Nissan Intelligent Mobility, you can enjoy ProPILOT Assist 2.0, which works as a driver attention system for a more hands-off experience behind the wheel. The “e-Pedal” is also included, which enables the driver to start, accelerate, and brake with only one pedal. As for safety, Nissan Safety Shield 360 is standard.

Other types of technology that you will find inside the cabin include compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The interior is designed with a flat floor for better cargo management. It has been described by the designers as lounge-like, and it is a comfortable environment for the driver and the passengers.

Unchanged Models

While this is certainly an impressive lineup of models with big changes for this year, the other Nissan models that we didn’t mention are showing just as much promise. Some of this year’s models are only receiving minor cosmetic changes, likely so the brand can focus its attention on the release of the Ariya, but they are still the reliable and desirable Nissan models that we all know and already love. With all the exciting things Nissan is bringing to the table this year, it will be interesting to see what else the company has in store for us. So, if you are ready to get behind the wheel of a new 2021 Nissan vehicle, check out your local Nissan dealership to see what they have to offer.