The 2021 Nissan Altima isn’t the most alluring or exciting family sedan, but it’s competent and available with some unconventional options. The latter include all-wheel drive and a one-of-a-kind variable-compression turbocharged engine. Unfortunately, Nissan doesn’t allow them to be paired together. Instead, the VC-Turbo is reserved for a single model that’s tuned for sportier intentions, and we found it surprisingly athletic. While the Altima isn’t as attractive or engaging as the Honda Accord or the Mazda 6, it does have very comfortable accommodations and a roster of popular driver assists and features. Its standard four-cylinder engine and gearless transmission don’t make for an inspiring powertrain, but the combo is subdued and fuel efficient. The fact of the matter is the 2021 Altima is good but not great. And that’s OK.