Nissan Altima celebrates 30 years in Middle East

The first-generation Altima was noted for its contemporary design and sporty performance and was a true technological trailblazer.
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Updated 07 June 2023
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Nissan Altima celebrates 30 years in Middle East

Following the regional launch of the new 2023 Nissan Altima, the technologically advanced sedan is celebrating three decades of rich heritage, legacy and innovation in the Middle East. Now in its sixth generation, the Nissan Altima continues to differentiate itself through bold and dynamic styling, cutting-edge performance, and a host of innovative technologies.

Regarded as one of Nissan’s best-selling nameplates with more than 6 million units sold globally, the Altima’s success story dates back to 1992 when it made its entry into the brand’s lineup. Prior to its global debut, the Altima name appeared on the top trim line of the Nissan Leopard and Nissan Laurel, playing on the word “ultimate” and positioning the car as the “ultimate sedan.” 

As the Altima marks a new milestone in the region, Nissan celebrates its continued success with the introduction of the new 2023 model, which features aesthetic upgrades inside and out, and welcomes a plethora of technological features, including a new 12.3-inch display and wireless smartphone integration.

The 2023 model builds on a strong legacy in the region and stays true to the brand promise of “Innovation that Excites.”

First generation

First produced in June 1992 as a 1993 model, the Altima replaced the Nissan Stanza, also known as the Nissan Bluebird in certain markets. The first-generation Altima was noted for its contemporary design and sporty performance and was a true technological trailblazer.

Second generation

The second-generation Altima, which was introduced in 1998, featured a fresh redesign and offered a sportier appearance inside and out, along with enhanced safety through the introduction of side airbags.

Third generation

Launched in 2002, the third-generation Nissan Altima introduced an all-new design and was the first Nissan vehicle to be built on the brand’s new FF-L platform (front engine, front-wheel drive, long) with a 6.9-inch longer wheelbase than its predecessor.

Fourth generation

Among the many changes that the fourth-generation Nissan Altima brought to the market in 2007, were a more powerful 270-horsepower V6 engine and the brand’s first use of its Xtronic CVT transmission.

Fifth generation

Launched in 2013, the fifth-generation model became known as the most innovative and premium Altima in the model’s 20-year history at the time. In addition to a restyled and lighter body, the model featured a more powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, next-generation Xtronic transmission, and a refined suspension setup.

Sixth generation

Replacing the 3.5-liter V6 engine of the outgoing model, the sixth-generation Altima brought the world’s first variable compression turbo engine to the fore, delivering advanced excitement and fuel efficiency.

A refreshed sixth generation, the new 2023 Nissan Altima is currently available at Nissan’s partner network across the Middle East, including at Abdulmohsen Abdulaziz Al-Babtain Company showrooms, the exclusive dealer of Nissan vehicles in Kuwait.


iCAUR V27 Saudi media test drive ignites excitement, conquering the Edge of the World!

Updated 29 January 2026
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iCAUR V27 Saudi media test drive ignites excitement, conquering the Edge of the World!

iCAUR held a V27 media test drive event in Riyadh on Jan. 22. 

Twelve local journalists and KOLs took four V27s to Saudi Arabia's famous natural landmark, the Edge of the World. 

They got a hands-on experience of the Boxy Styled SUV’s classic style and advanced technology on challenging real-world roads.

In the morning, journalists and KOLs gathered in downtown Riyadh. 

Through product briefings and interactive sessions, guests got an up-close look at the V27’s core technologies and design philosophy while enjoying a relaxed brunch, introducing iCAUR in detail. 

Afterward, the test drive convoy left the city and drove roughly 200 km northwest to the Edge of the World. 

During the drive, participants praised the V27’s smooth and quiet ride. 

They also appreciated the 15.4-inch 3K HD touchscreen and the smart infotainment system powered by the 8155 chip. 

Voice control for navigation, climate, and music was also highly appreciated.

The test drive destination, the Edge of the World, is located north of the Tuwaik Mountains, which stretches upto 1,000 km. 

It is a steep cliff with a drop of about 300 meters and is one of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic natural wonders. 

The nearly two-hour journey passes vast plains with almost no signal and few clear road signs. The desert is full of faint tire tracks and gullies eroded by rain.

In this environment, the V27’s power and off-road capability are fully showcased. 

As iCAUR’s first mass-production model equipped with Golden REEV (Range-Extended Electric Vehicle), the V27 uses a 1.5T engine dedicated to range extension, with a thermal efficiency of 45.79% and the ability to generate 3.71kWh per liter of fuel. 

This gives the V27 a combined range of over 1,000km, allowing it to handle long distances even in deserts and rugged terrains with limited refueling options. 

The front and rear dual motors deliver a combined 455hp, enabling 0–100km/h acceleration in around 5 seconds, providing consistent and strong power on complex roads. 

Tuned by the world-class Prodrive racing team and paired with the i-AWD (intelligent All-Wheel Drive) system, the V27 stays stable at high speeds. 

It also delivers precise, controlled handling on gravel and uneven surfaces, delivering an exceptional driving feel for a 5-meter vehicle. This balance of performance and efficiency has been repeatedly highlighted by the media and KOLs during the event. 

The first batch of iCAUR V27s has now been officially shipped to six Middle Eastern markets, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. 

The Middle East will serve as the global debut region for the V27, with launches in the UAE and Bahrain in February, followed by Saudi Arabia in March.

Before the official launch, iCAUR will roll out a series of activities in Saudi Arabia, including mall displays and showroom openings, allowing media and users to get up close with this new energy classic. 

The showrooms will also feature the AiMOGA humanoid robot, powered by Chery Group’s latest AI technology. Stay tuned!