The ultimate comparison: acura ilx vs nissan altima – specs, features, and price showdown
What To Know
- The ILX returns an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Altima gets 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with the 2.
- However, the ILX comes with a more powerful engine and a more premium interior, making it a better value for the money.
- While the ILX offers a more premium experience and better performance, the Altima provides a more affordable option with a spacious interior and impressive fuel economy.
In the bustling automotive landscape, the compact sedan segment reigns supreme, offering a blend of practicality, efficiency, and style. Two formidable contenders in this arena are the Acura ILX and the Nissan Altima. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the depths of these two sedans to uncover their strengths, weaknesses, and which one emerges as the superior choice.
Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood of the Acura ILX lies a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that churns out 201 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, the ILX delivers a spirited and responsive driving experience.
The Nissan Altima, on the other hand, offers a range of powertrain options. The base model features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, while the SR and Platinum trims boast a more potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
In terms of fuel economy, the Acura ILX offers slightly better ratings than the Nissan Altima. The ILX returns an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the Altima gets 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with the 2.5-liter engine and 23 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.
Interior and Technology
Step inside the Acura ILX and you’ll be greeted by a premium cabin adorned with leather-trimmed seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The 8.0-inch touchscreen display offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, along with a host of other features.
The Nissan Altima also boasts a spacious and well-appointed interior. The front seats offer ample support and the rear seats provide plenty of legroom. The infotainment system features a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Safety and Reliability
Both the Acura ILX and Nissan Altima have earned top ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They come equipped with a comprehensive suite of airbags, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and other safety features.
In terms of reliability, the Acura ILX has a slightly better track record than the Nissan Altima. J.D. Power and Associates has ranked Acura as one of the most reliable brands in the industry, while Nissan has consistently scored below average.
Value and Ownership Costs
The Acura ILX has a starting price of $29,995, while the Nissan Altima starts at $25,600. However, the ILX comes with a more powerful engine and a more premium interior, making it a better value for the money.
In terms of ownership costs, the Acura ILX is slightly more expensive to maintain than the Nissan Altima. However, the ILX’s higher resale value and better reliability can offset some of these costs over the long term.
Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Acura ILX and the Nissan Altima depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a compact sedan that offers a spirited driving experience, a premium interior, and top-notch safety features, the Acura ILX is an excellent choice. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and prioritize fuel economy and a spacious interior, the Nissan Altima is a solid option.
Final Thoughts: The Compact Sedan Showdown
The Acura ILX and the Nissan Altima are both compelling choices in the compact sedan segment. While the ILX offers a more premium experience and better performance, the Altima provides a more affordable option with a spacious interior and impressive fuel economy. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific priorities and budget.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which car has a more powerful engine?
A: The Acura ILX has a more powerful engine than the base Nissan Altima, but the Altima’s SR and Platinum trims offer a more potent turbocharged engine.
Q: Which car has a better fuel economy?
A: The Acura ILX has slightly better fuel economy ratings than the Nissan Altima, especially with the 2.5-liter engine.
Q: Which car has a more spacious interior?
A: The Nissan Altima has a more spacious interior than the Acura ILX, especially in the rear seats.
Q: Which car has a better infotainment system?
A: Both cars offer user-friendly infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, but the Nissan Altima’s 12.3-inch touchscreen is larger than the Acura ILX’s 8.0-inch display.
Q: Which car is more reliable?
A: The Acura ILX has a slightly better reliability record than the Nissan Altima, according to J.D. Power and Associates.