VIEWS AND REVIEWS.(for Nissan's new Altima)(Brief Article)(Evaluation)

OWNERS

The Altima is very quick and agile. Freeway ramps and mountain roads bring out the boy-racer in me. Features recently available only on luxury cars, such as heated seats, audio and trip-center controls on the steering wheel, curtain airbags and automatic climate control, are available for a reasonable price. I can live with the stiff ride and road noise that accompany the sporty nature of the car. I shopped for no other brand. I was so struck by the new styling I knew it was my choice. For some time after the purchase, I would just sit and look at it.

RON SYKES, Brea, Calif.

This car is amazing! I'm impressed with the power, acceleration and smooth performance of the V6. I was pleasantly surprised to see what a large car the new Altima is-even better, it doesn't handle like one. I also considered the Toyota Camry V6, but the power and handling didn't compare to the Altima. I fell in love with the appearance of the car immediately and still find myself glancing back at it after I park. I highly recommend this automobile.

JIM SLAVIN, Syosset, N.Y.

The new Altima is great but suffers from serious quality control problems. I recently filed a lemon-law letter with Nissan, giving them one more opportunity to correct a chronic ``service engine soon'' indicator light that has been a problem from the day I bought the car. Aside from being in the shop approximately nine times over the past 15 weeks, I recently discovered the windshield that had to be replaced (the dealer broke it trying to adjust the incorrectly installed trim) is leaking. I love the Altima for its power, looks and handling. The service has been good but the quality of the car ...