With the current version pushing 175 horsepower in base form and 260 ponies with SE-R badging, the current Nissan Altima is hardly a slouch. Quite the opposite, as this four-door people mover has easily held its own since being introduced with new engines in 2002, and even the 2001 model packed 155 hard-working horses.

When it goes on sale in November 2006, the 2007 Altima will draw power from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.5-liter V6. Transmission options include a continuously-variable automatic or a six-speed manual. Base models get the four banger, good for more than 165 horsepower and 175 lb.-ft. of torque; V6 models feature more than 265 horsepower and 255 lb.-ft. of twist. An independent suspension is bolted in below the all-new skin, wheels measure 16 or 17 inches in diameter, and the driver is connected to the whole deal via a new rack-and-pinion steering system.