Over the last two model years, the Nissan Altima has proved to be an especially popular choice for consumers. The 2007 Altima outsold any General Motors, Ford or Chrysler car in its class; in fact, only two other midsize cars sold more units than the Altima. One of the most attractive things about the Nissan Altima is the sheer number of options and packages available.

Start off, first of all, with the stand-alone 2008 Nissan Altima options. On the 3.5SE coupe and the 3.5 sedan, you can add a stability-control system with traction control. To the 2.5S coupe and the hybrid, you can add a sunroof. You can add fog lights to the 2.5S coupe and sedan. To the 2.5 and the 3.5SL sedans, you can add a rear spoiler. The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) can be added to any of the models it doesn’t already ship with; that is, anything but the 3.5SL and the hybrid, as the CVT is standard with those models.

From here, we get into packages. The Convenience package includes audio controls on the steering wheel, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, auto on and off headlights, and an eight-way power driver’s seat. This one is available for the hybrid and both versions of the 2.5S. For the 2.5S, you can so up to the Convenience Plus package on the 2.5S, adding 16-inch aluminum wheels and a power sunroof.

One of the most interesting packages is the Connection package. The Connection package starts out with the Convenience package, but it adds XM Radio, an upgraded stereo and Bluetooth. You can get this package on the hybrid and the 2.5S CVT.

For the 3.5SE sedan and coupe and for the 2.5S coupe, you can add a premium package. This gives you dual-zone automatic climate controls, a Bose stereo, XM satellite radio, leather seats and Bluetooth.

Every model except for the 2.5S sedan can also get the Technology package. This gives you a touch-screen navigation system, and a rear backup camera.