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Comments
As far as the car, I like the Altima's ride. Handling is solid and good acceleration for a 4 banger but I agree the downside to this car is the cheap plastic interior. The Bose system gets pretty loud without distortion.
My Altima came with just the basic equipment. Floor mats, splash guards, single CD player, automatic trans, ect. I had the after market leather put in for extra $1000.
The out the door price was $22,400 before leather. Out the door means that was the final price including all fees, taxes, and tags.
I would of liked to of waited since I got 2.9% financing and now Nissan is offering 0.9% for the 2004's. Oh well, you can't win them all
D
I am waiting until the 2005 debuts though...I can't see myself buying one so soon, when the 2005s come out in April. I can't wait!
The salesmen seemed eager to get me in the 2004, but he had no manual transmissions, and I know I want a stick shift, so I told him to catch me next month and I may go in to order a 2005 if the interior and the cosmetic changes are to my liking.
Finding a stick in ANY family sedan outside of the Mazda6 and the VW Passat is DIFFICULT. Even for the sporty Altima/Maxima sisters.
I can't find one within the area ranges of Charlotte, Atlanta, Greenville (SC) and Columbia (SC).
So I will order one if possible.
BTW, I have a feeling that Nissan will display the 2005 Altima at the Chicago Autoshow because the show should began right around the time the Altima should debut if rumors are correct.
The Chicago Autoshow is in Feb.
The 04 is a beautiful car except for all that interior pastic, but after the 05s are out the rebate money may increase on the older model, making an even better deal.
I guess the old saying "Good things come to those who wait" is true.
I hope this time Nissan did it right with refinement. Because I REALLY want the Altima, but if I don't get the interior with high quality plastics, I am going to Honda or Toyota, or even Mazda.
Since this is a price forum, my salemsen has offered me $2500 below invoice on the Altimas in my area. All of them are either fully loaded or extremely basic and ALL have automatic transmission ( I'll pass on them all)
Well, I heard today that the Altima will definately be getting an update for 2005...but these are the latest rumors I have heard from over at Freshalloy.com
4 models will be available for 2005
2.5S, 2.5SL, 3.5SL, 3.5SE (I AM VERY excited to see a 3.5SL model!!!!!!!)
Anyway, the 3.5SL will probably be automatic-only like the 2.5SL.
Also, a Navigational system will be available for the 2.5SL, 3.5SL and 3.5SE!!!!
There is NO SE-R model (I was hoping there would not be)
The damn car is fast enough...
Plus the same rumor was out back in 2001 when the Maxima got a facelift. I didn't believe it then, and I don't believe it now.
The 5spd manual is continued....no 6spd (DARN)
The V6 gets 5 more horsepower! That means 250 horsepower. I think it had that much anyway...Nissan just underrated it.
I wish Bowke would chime in on this.....
So I will want either of these
1) A fully loaded 2.5S model with everything available (5spd manual)
2) A fully loaded 3.5SE model with everything except navigation (5spd manual)
3) A fully loaded 3.5SL with everything except navigation (automatic, HOPEFULLY a 5spd automatic with manual shift)
I can't WAIT!!!!!!!
I just bought a Quest SE from a dealer here where I live. They gave it to me for $573 below invoice + taxes and tag ONLY! No extra fees. No other dealer would touch their deal. They also gave me $100 more for my trade than anyone else. We had such a great experience from them, we are to go back Monday night to trade a 1998 Civic in on a 2004 Altima SL. They offered it to us below invoice as well. But, $2500? I thought I was good, but you are the man! My theory is that anything below invoice is good. Am I wrong?
He offered $2000 off the 2004s including the $1500 rebate and the additional offer of $500 more off invoice.
I didn't even haggle, he just offered this stuff to me to get rid of the 2003s and 2004s before the 2005 gets here.
I am not buying ANYTHING until I see the 2005. No matter how good the rebates get.
As a matter of fact, I saw a very nice Smoke SE model today, and my mother actually liked it. I am just not getting a 04, when the 05 are supposed to be out by the end of Feb or the beginning of March.
This is my first car purchase and I don't want to get a 2004 model, and then find that the 2005s are WAY better...with a better interior.
She is extremely interested in the Pathfinder Armada...and she is a HONDA person.
The 2005s are coming out very soon. End of Feb or beginning of March.
You may be able to wait and look at the 2005s, and if you would rather have a 2004, I am sure there will still be some SL models on the lot. And the rebate is probably not going anywhere because they are really going to want to move the 2004s when the 2005s get here.
Now, finding a 2004 SE 5spd would probably be difficult, but I am sure there will be many SL models left on the lot.
I wish you the best, and congrats on the new Quest.
My mother drives and Odyssey, and I have been trying to get her to get a Quest. She doesn't like the Quest, but she LOVEs the Armada.
As for waiting, they are giving us special deal because of buying 2 cars from them. And, I really don't care what the '05 has. I am sure it will not have rebate and special financing. The '04 is way better than the '98 Civic. So, I will go ahead and take the plunge! But, I can understand why you want to wait. Good Luck!
What color is your Quest, and what color will the Altima be?
My Altima (if I get one) will be either Smoke, Mystic Emerald, Polished Pewter of Majestic Blue (the new color for 2005).
I ain't touching an Altima until March...
My Quest is Great Tea w/ Beige Leather and my Altima is Smoke w/ Charcoal Leather!
Also, does anyone know if you are to claim a rebate on your income tax? I got a rebate on a Heat Pump once ($800) and I got a letter a couple years later saying that I didn't claim it. The letter politely reminded me that I owed tax on the $800 plus a late fee plus interest. Has anyone heard of this on a car rebate before?
It seems to me that either the manufacturer or the IRS screwed up about the heat pump rebate. The manufactuer may have made a check out to you and did not specify what the payment was for. The IRS could have interpreted that as income.
In any event, I've bought several cars with rebates and never had tax problems. I always had the rebate deducted from the price of the car. It may be different if the manufacturer sends you a check, but I really don't see why.
Good luck with your Nissans. The smoke gray is a great color for the Altima.
By the way, I believe the $500 rebate is for recent college graduates.
Is there anyway I can show proof the 1500 as well as the 500 discount works before taxes? All the dealers i went told me the incentives are after, which does not make sense to me. I would appreciate if someone can help me this question.
Also, look at Edmunds.com quotes on a new car, it shows the rebate is taken off before taxes?
Here's the deal on the table:
National Base Price $17,958
F01 Conv. Package $1,457
T01 ABS & Side Airbags $694
B10 Splash Guards $88
L92 Floor/Trunk Mats $112
Destination $560
Total with options $20,869
Of course, they didn't have one on the lot, as the ABS with Side Airbags is not a common feature, however, they were able to find several of suitable color inside and out.
I was given an MSRP of $22,330 and invoice price of $20,757 which jives with Edmunds (he's throwing in the mats for free).
So, taking into consideration the $1,500 rebate, we're at $19,257.
I'm well more than 2 years out of college, so nix that $500 rebate.
Edmunds list Nissan holdback as 3% of the total invoice, so that's another $626 off for $18,631.
At this point, he wanted to know what was comfortable for me. I told him I'd like to see a price under $18,000.
Without any trips to the manager's office, he said he could do this.
Now, of course, I'm a little concerned as he didn't bat an eye over that price, so naturally I think I'm forgetting a rebate or have come in too high.
He did also add that there would be a dealer fee of around $400-$500, and that there was no getting around that.
I find that hard to believe, and I forgot to ask if that was supposed to be the TITLE portion of the T+T+T. I'm getting the feeling that it's not. Some friendly advice here would really be helpful!
I did come across the following, and it REALLY has me worried.
http://auto.consumerguide.com/auto/new/reviews/full/index.cfm/id/- 37642
Specifically:
Models Expires Rebate
Altima 03/01/04 $3000 cash back or 0.9%- 1.9% financing.
Altima 03/01/04 $350 dealer incentive.
Consumer Guide's Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model.
So far, that is the ONLY resource I've found listing these rebates. Everything else shows only the $1,500 and $500 incentives.
There are three (3) Nissan dealers in my area, all of which show 2005's in their inventory. One has a significant number of them, but it's the farthest away, and I've not been to them yet.
Edmunds doesn't show the 2005 Altimas in their pricing section, and though I can get the MSRP from the Nissan website, I'm not sure how well I can deal on them.
I could really use some advice. Naturally, part of me wants to see and try the 2005, while another part of me would truly love a GREAT deal on a 2004.
I can wait a couple of days into March, but there is definately a need for a replacement vehicle due to my 1999 Camry engine compartment fire, but that's a story for another forum.
Can those in the know please advise me on the quality of the current deal on the table and what I should do with the other dealers to try to get my best price?
After reviewing the local 2005 inventory, I couldn't find a vehicle with the same (the ABS with side airbags is a rare bird) options, but just like the 2004 I'm working on, it could probably come from somewhere else in the state (I'm in Central Florida, BTW).
Should I consider waiting til after 03/01/04?
Will there be better incentives or will I lose the $1,500 one that's available?
Is the 2005 that much more vehicle that I should strongly consider dealing on it, and if so, what should I expect to pay? All of the 3% holdback should be there, however, there's less motivation for them to negotiate on a new model year vehicle.
Please let me know.
My e-mail is 'cetacea@mail.com' if anyone would like to take the time to write me directly. I'll check back here for posts as well.
Thanks!
Your price of 18K, or 18.5K with the dealer add on, seems good to me, especially since you are wisely getting the air bag/ABS option.
I can't imagine that any Nissan dealer is going to dip into holdback on the just released 05 Altimas. They are a big improvement over the 04s and will probably command a significant bump over invoice for at least a few months.
You probably owe it to yourself to see an 05 before you pull the trigger. No, you won't get a deal to match what you might get on an 04, but you may be happier with an 05.
If you decide you want the 04, the price you have negotiated isn't bad. There may be a couple hundred more in it for you, but, to me, that is relatively insignificant if you are financing over five years.
By the way, where in Central Florida? I'm in Kissimmee. Bill Ray in Longwood, or DeLand Nissan, seem to be the best bets in the Orlando area.
I've been waiting for a FAX from Classic as I'm a bit under the weather and currently have no transportation available to make the trip over to the dealer.
A friend was helping me out, but he had things to do, so there goes my ride.
Problem is, I was promised a FAX last night and as of this morning, I don't have it. I know dealers want to play the numbers "on their ground" but I told the sales rep the ball park I wanted to deal and he said it would be no problem.
I guess getting a commitment on paper is a lot tougher.
I'm a little concerned now about the '05. I'd sure like to know what changes were made to it over the '04. I've been to Nissan's site, though I didn't see any way to compare the differing model years.
I wont be financing either ... it will be a cash deal -- insurance check plus the balance borrowed from a family member.
What do you feel the best price obtainable on the '04 would be?
How 'bout the '05? Is the redesigned '05 really worth several thousand $$$$ more?
I was told by a S.M. that often they'll take a loss on a car at the end of the month, as they've already made their profit target and now they're just trying to move additional vehicles. Does that actually make sense?
Also, are the tires-for-life programs any good or just hype?
Oh, and one final question. I went back to the Toyota site and saw that you could compare various models against other makes.
When I compared the Altima vs. the Camry, all of the facts and figures that were displayed (i.e. G-forces in a crash, costs, etc.) showed the Altima as significantly worse than a Camry. Any truth to this, or is it all just hype as well?
I appreciate your help in the matter!
Many Thanks!
In terms of crash scores, the Camry is just a notch above the Altima in most respects- the Camry gets a "Good-Best Pick" from the IIHS, and the Altima gets a "Good". For side impacts, the 2003s - The Camry earned 3 stars driver, narrowly missing 4, and 5 for rear passenger. The Altima earned 3 stars driver, and 4 stars rear passenger. Note this was in models without side airbags, though, and on the whole, purchasing side curtains and bags typically enhances crashworthiness.
My point is- I dont think the crash scores alone should steer you away from the Altima. The differences are not so pronounced.
Personally if you can get a 2004 2.5S w/ Conv. Pkg, Side Airbags & ABS, a few accessories for $18,500 before TTL, I'd say jump on it. Its an excellent car, at an amazing price.
~alpha
I've been waiting for a FAX from Classic as I'm a bit under the weather and currently have no transportation available to make the trip over to the dealer.
A friend was helping me out, but he had things to do, so there goes my ride.
Problem is, I was promised a FAX last night and as of this morning, I don't have it. I know dealers want to play the numbers "on their ground" but I told the sales rep the ball park I wanted to deal and he said it would be no problem.
I guess getting a commitment on paper is a lot tougher.
I'm a little concerned now about the '05. I'd sure like to know what changes were made to it over the '04. I've been to Nissan's site, though I didn't see any way to compare the differing model years.
I wont be financing either ... it will be a cash deal -- insurance check plus the balance borrowed from a family member.
What do you feel the best price obtainable on the '04 would be?
How 'bout the '05? Is the redesigned '05 really worth several thousand $$$$ more?
I was told by a S.M. that often they'll take a loss on a car at the end of the month, as they've already made their profit target and now they're just trying to move additional vehicles. Does that actually make sense?
Also, are the tires-for-life programs any good or just hype?
Oh, and one final question. I went back to the Toyota site and saw that you could compare various models against other makes.
When I compared the Altima vs. the Camry, all of the facts and figures that were displayed (i.e. G-forces in a crash, costs, etc.) showed the Altima as significantly worse than a Camry. Any truth to this, or is it all just hype as well?
I appreciate your help in the matter!
Many Thanks!
The difference between the 05 and 04 Altimas is that the interior has been restyled with upgraded materials, the front and rear fascias are slightly different, Navigation is now optional, and there is a 3.5SL model. The V6 gains 5 hp to 250, and all auto-equipped V6s use a 5 speed automatic.
~alpha
That being said, if you can get the '04 with bags and ABS for $18.5, I agree with Alpha that that is a decent deal. You can of course always find a better deal, but is the added stress worth it?
The 05 Altima is supposed to have a significantly upgraded interior. I believe that is the main difference, along with a slightly different front fascia. Is that worth a couple thousand dollars? You have to answer that.
The Camry is a more refined car than the Altima. In general, the interior materials are of higher quality. You can also order a Camry with stability control, but you will be up around 30K to get that equipment on a Camry. The Altima crash tests are pretty good, so I wouldn't worry about that.
As far as the tires for life, I think it is a ploy to force you to have all of your service work done at the dealership. That is one reason why I avoid Classic dealerships. I would advise working with Bill Ray or DeLand. Reed sticks a ridiculous dealer fee of over 1K on all of their cars.
If I were you, I would first decide if you will be happy with the O4. If so, I would decide exactly what equipment you want on the car. Once you did that, then decide how much money you will spend for that car, out the door (including all dealer fees, taxes, tags, etc.).
If that figure is 20K, then call each dealer in your area and ask them for the best price on the model you are interested in. Since this is a cash transaction, and it is at the end of the month, my guess is that you will soon have a new car.
Just remember to make all offers in out-the-door figures so the dealer can't later say, "Gee, I forgot to add this fee," when it is time to sign the contract. Keep it simple.
-Chris
-Chris
Good luck with your Altima. The SE is one of the best looking cars on the road, IMHO. What color, by the way?
I was just curious to see what other people thought. I'm aware that the sale is done and theres not much I can do, but it's just nice to see what others have paid for an Altima with similar options. I did read numerous posts on this yet I couldn't find very many with a similar Altima. It's almost like a reassuring factor to see that I didn't get ripped off and if I did then I will have to work a little harder next time. Simply a learning experience.
This car is absolutely spectacular! I got the Smoke color. I really wanted the Xenon headlights and Bose system, but realized that it wasn't worth the extra money to me. Possibly a future mod. Thanks for your input.
-Chris
You're right on the money with Classic. As I said in my earlier message, I was given asked for a ballpark, and it was agreed without hesitation.
Then, the following day, it was nixed by the SM, they wanted about a grand more, and we hadn't even gotten to the dealer fee.
But on the positive side, the rep at Bill Ray was great. They didn't have what I wanted on the lot, but I took another test drive in a 2.5S equipped with the Convenience Pkg., ABS/Side bags, and the EXTRA feature that I didn't want, a power moonroof.
Don't get me wrong, I'd love to have one, but it just doesn't work for my height from the waist up in really any sedan.
I also noticed on this drive that the storage compartment in front of the gearshift was just a little out of reach for me as a convenience.
That and a request for a deposit in order to bring the vehicle in from another dealership started me looking back at Toyotas.
I really liked the Altima, but the Camry is just so familiar to me. Not sure if I'll get a good deal on one ... but as you folks have reminded me that it's not so much the deal, it's how comfortable and happy one will be with their purchase.
Thanks again for the kind advice. Going to try to deal on a Camry today.
I would like to know how you folks feel about the side and head curtain airbags. I'm really leaning towards them. Please let me know.
Best Regards!
Marc
You did the right thing by walking. Nothing wrong with a Camry, especially the SE edition with a spoiler. It's not the enthusiast's car that a Mazda 6 or Altima SE is, but it's a very good car and, IMHO, not bad looking.
I say stick with the side bags and ABS package. Well worth the money. Not sure if Toyota is still offering the $1,000 rebate in the Southeast though. Something to check on before you try your deal. Good luck.
Since they already have the 2005's on the lot, I was thinking of aiming for $14k+ttl..does anyone have any comments on this price? (we'll assume its a base 2.5S with auto --- the one I looked at has some useless convenience package, but I think they have base models too).
I'm not sure they can discount a new 03 enough to make it worth your while, though. The car is already two model years old, so the depreciation is going to be brutal. If you are shopping for a bargain, I think I'd go with an 04 ($1,500 rebate) unless they give you an unbelievable deal on the 03.
You can check on used 03 prices at the Edmunds used car TMV and get enough information to make an educated guess about what you should pay for a new one.
As far as the loyalty rebate, that sounds like a service offered only by that dealer. They set their own rules, so you will have a hard time arguing against their policy.
According to Edmunds, the 04 Altimas have $1,500 in cash rebates in the Southeast or 0.9 percent financing for 60 months. Your region may be different. There is $350 dealer cash if the dealer meets his sales goal.
In any event, $14K plus taxes and tags may be a reach for an 03, but all they can do is say No, right?
I acutally saw an Altima 2.5SL with Navigational System and NO ABS.
That's CRAZY!
Actually, if you have a 3.5SL, you actually HAVE ABS, just not the Side airbags/TRAC.
According to an e-mail I receieved, the 3.5SL and 3.5SEs with automatic have ABS standard, while Side airbags and TRAC are optional. The SE 5spd manual and the 2.5S and 2.5S with SL pkg have the optional ABS/SAB pkg.
Nissan USA has not updated their site to show this I don't believe.
You got a good deal my friend. Especially considering the 2005s came out recently.
I had one salemen try to sell me a 2.5SL for $25K, and it didn't even have a sunroof.
I looked, laughed and walked on by.....
I went to Atlanta yesterday, and I will be glad when I get my Altima.
I was in LOVE with Seascape, but they don't make it anymore. I like Mystic Emerald, but you can't get Charcoal with that color.
I will probably end up with Polished Pewter or Smoke.
2004 Altima 2.5S Automatic
Polished Pewter / Frost
F01 Convenience Package
T01 ABS & Side Airbag Package
A95 EC Mirror w/Compass
L92 Floor/Trunk Mat Set
B10 Splash Guards
The price is $18,449 (after 2000 rebate) before TTL. Not sure how good the deal is. But it's the only 2.5S with ABS and Convenience Package in my area. I was in a hurry to get it.
Kudos on the deal. Even if you had only gotten a $1500 rebate you would have beat my areas Edmunds TMV price by about $500.