Altima vs. sentra: the definitive guide to cabin space and comfort

When it comes to compact and midsize sedans, the Nissan Altima and Sentra often find themselves in the spotlight. While both vehicles boast impressive features and high-quality construction, their size dimensions have been a subject of curiosity among car enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the realm of Nissan Altima vs Sentra dimensions, providing an in-depth analysis to answer the question: is Nissan Altima bigger than Sentra?

Exterior Dimensions

The most apparent distinction between the Altima and Sentra lies in their exterior dimensions. The Altima, being a midsize sedan, naturally outsizes the Sentra, a compact sedan.

• Length: The Altima measures 192.9 inches in length, while the Sentra spans 182.4 inches. This difference of 10.5 inches translates to a noticeable gap in overall length.

• Width: In terms of width, the Altima has a slight edge over the Sentra, measuring 73 inches compared to 70.6 inches. This 2.4-inch difference contributes to the Altima’s more spacious interior.

• Height: The Altima stands taller than the Sentra, with a height of 58.1 inches versus 56.9 inches. This 1.2-inch difference may not seem significant, but it does impact headroom and overall cabin space.

Interior Dimensions

The size discrepancy between the Altima and Sentra extends to their interior dimensions as well.

• Headroom: Front-seat headroom in the Altima measures 38.3 inches, while the Sentra offers 37.8 inches. This 0.5-inch difference provides a more generous headspace for taller occupants in the Altima.

• Legroom: The Altima boasts a legroom of 43.8 inches in the front and 38.1 inches in the rear. The Sentra, on the other hand, offers 42.5 inches of front legroom and 37.4 inches of rear legroom. This difference is particularly noticeable for rear passengers, who will appreciate the additional legroom in the Altima.

• Trunk Space: Trunk space is another area where the Altima excels. With a trunk capacity of 15.4 cubic feet, the Altima provides ample room for luggage, groceries, and other cargo. The Sentra’s trunk, with a capacity of 14.3 cubic feet, is slightly smaller but still adequate for everyday needs.

Performance and Handling

Despite their size differences, both the Altima and Sentra deliver impressive performance and handling characteristics.

• Engine Power: The Altima offers a range of engine options, including a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, and a 3.5-liter V6. The Sentra, on the other hand, comes exclusively with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

• Fuel Efficiency: In terms of fuel efficiency, the Sentra has a slight advantage over the Altima, with an EPA-estimated combined rating of 30 mpg compared to 28 mpg for the Altima.

• Handling: Both the Altima and Sentra offer responsive handling, with the Altima’s larger size providing a slightly more stable ride at higher speeds.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for both Nissan models.

• Standard Safety Features: Both the Altima and Sentra come standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

• Advanced Safety Features: The Altima offers additional advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams.

Technology and Convenience

The Altima and Sentra are well-equipped with modern technology and convenience features.

• Infotainment System: The Altima features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Sentra, on the other hand, has a slightly smaller 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

• Comfort Features: Both models offer heated seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control, providing a comfortable driving experience.

Pricing and Value

The Altima and Sentra differ in their pricing, with the Altima being more expensive than the Sentra.

• Base Price: The base price of the Nissan Altima starts at around $25,000, while the Nissan Sentra starts at approximately $20,000.

• Value Proposition: Both the Altima and Sentra offer excellent value for their respective price ranges, providing a balance of features, performance, and safety.

The Verdict: Is Nissan Altima Bigger Than Sentra?

Yes, the Nissan Altima is bigger than the Nissan Sentra in terms of exterior and interior dimensions. The Altima’s larger size translates to more spacious seating, a more generous trunk, and a more comfortable ride. However, the Sentra offers better fuel efficiency and a lower base price. Ultimately, the choice between the Altima and Sentra depends on individual preferences and priorities.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. What are the key differences between the Altima and Sentra?

A: The Altima is a midsize sedan, while the Sentra is a compact sedan. The Altima is larger in size, offers more interior space, and has a more powerful engine. The Sentra is more fuel-efficient and has a lower base price.

2. Which model is more suitable for families?

A: The Altima’s larger size and more spacious interior make it a more suitable choice for families who need more space for passengers and cargo.

3. Which model is better for daily commuting?

A: Both the Altima and Sentra offer comfortable interiors and good fuel efficiency, making them suitable for daily commuting. However, the Sentra’s smaller size and lower price may make it a more practical choice for city driving.