Teresa’s View: This car backs up its good looks

After spotting an older Nissan Altima the other day, I realized how buffed the new Altima has become. It’s like the difference between the “Days of Our Lives” Demi Moore and the current enhanced-and-sculpted one.

Although the Altima’s stylish good looks still turn heads, Nissan decided to further spice up the exterior for 2005. The last major upgrade was three years ago, so the girl needed some lifts and tucks to keep her fresh.

She also got much-needed interior improvements. Buyers cross-shopping Accords and Camrys had noticed decidedly lower quality materials and, although the Altima is Nissan’s top-selling car, sales suffered. Chrome accents now highlight a handsome cabin that includes a new instrument panel design, center console and three-spoke steering wheel. Improved seat material and headliner lend an air of distinction.

Any car this athletic looking better be able to back it up — and the Altima does. Powered by either an inline-four or one of two versions of Nissan’s award-winning V-6 engine, the Altima offers solid acceleration and competent motoring. Need more? A high-performance version, dubbed the SE-R, was added to the lineup this year.

The Altima is solid in the twisty bits, but if that’s your preferred driving style, consider upgrading the tires or opting for the SE-R.

What Is It?: Nissan’s midsize sedan comes in a choice of six models. Prices for the entry-level Altima start at a smidge over $17K, while the top-of-the-line SE-R bumps the $30K ceiling.

Gadget Rating: 7 out of 10. All Altimas are equipped with a six-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system, power windows and locks. A DVD-based navigation system was added to the options list. Side impact air bags and drop-down curtains are extra.

Grocery Sack Test: The wide opening and roomy cargo area is well equipped to handle paper bags or a couple of sets of golf clubs.

Gas Grade: The inline-4 engines use regular gas. Premium is recommended for the V-6 versions.

Trivia: When it was introduced in 1992, the Altima replaced the Stanza.

So, Where Are Ya From?: Japanese-owned Nissan builds Altimas in Tennessee.