Good review. I was also pleasantly surprised at the performance delivered by the 2.5l / CVT combo and found that the CVT really seemed particularly well-matched to this engine, getting the most out of it without ever feeling strained in so doing.
Re: "I question the need for the optional 270-hp V6." Dude, it has absolutely
nothing to do with need and absolutely everything to do with
want. I drive the 3.5 SE 6MT sedan and I can tell you that the VQ snarl and frenetic rush are quite addictive. I
could be perfectly content with the 2.5, but with the VQ I am grinning constantly.
Things I don't like so much about the coupe:
1) The rear and rear three-quarters styling is dramatic and attractive (I see way more G35 and 350Z here that anything Pontiac), but they could have done a bit more with the front end styling to distinguish Coupe from sedan. Have a look at the pic below and see how fast you can spot which is which:
2) 18" wheels should at least be optional equipment and a moderate drop to reduce the huge wheel gap should be standard.
Overall, I think Nissan did an excellent job with this vehicle. While I still cling to the hope that one day they will resurrect an affordable rwd coupe such as the dearly departed 240SX, this one should have broader appeal.
On the utility side of the equation, the Altima suffers from traditional Coupe limitations. It is interesting that Honda took a very different route - delivering an Accord Coupe fully 8" longer than its Nissan counterpart (indeed, longer than the Altima
Sedan). I would guess that it will deliver more rear-seat and trunk space, but it remains to be seen whether sporty coupe shoppers will buy into the "big is beautiful" dimensions.
Jaeger