Nissan Altima

Test details:

The Nissan Altima was redesigned for the 2002 model year. Beginning with 2005 models, door changes were made to improve occupant protection in side-impact crashes. (Nissan reported that these door changes would not significantly affect side-impact performance in models without side airbags; therefore, the overall side impact rating for 2002-05 models without side airbags is the same.)

When side airbags are optional, as in this vehicle, the Institute conducts the test without this option. If a manufacturer offering optional side airbags requests the Institute to conduct an additional test of a vehicle with this option and agrees to reimburse the cost of the vehicle, a second test is conducted. Nissan did not request such a test.

Injury measures:

Driver — Measures taken from the dummy indicate that serious skull fracture and/or brain injuries and neck injuries would be likely in a crash of this severity. A fracture of the pelvis also would be likely. Rib fractures and/or internal organ injuries plus a left femur fracture would be possible.

Rear passenger — Measures taken from the dummy indicate that serious neck injuries would be possible in a crash of this severity. The risk of significant injuries to other body regions is low.

Head protection:

Driver — The dummy's head was hit by the intruding barrier, producing high head injury measures.

Rear passenger — The dummy's head hit the window sill of the rear passenger door, producing moderately high neck injury measures. Hitting the window areas should be prevented.