Altima vs sonata: the ultimate showdown for affordable luxury
What To Know
- In terms of fuel economy, the Altima has a slight edge over the Sonata, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 39 mpg highway compared to 27 mpg city and 37 mpg highway for the Sonata.
- The Altima has a slight edge in terms of fuel economy and interior space, while the Sonata boasts a more powerful engine and a more advanced infotainment system.
- The Nissan Altima has a slight edge in fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 39 mpg highway compared to 27 mpg city and 37 mpg highway for the Sonata.
The midsize sedan segment is a fiercely competitive battleground, with two prominent contenders being the Nissan Altima and the Hyundai Sonata. These vehicles offer a blend of comfort, style, and performance, making them popular choices among drivers. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key aspects of the Nissan Altima versus Sonata to help you make an informed decision about which one reigns supreme.
Exterior Design: Style and Substance
The Nissan Altima exudes a sleek and sophisticated design, with its sharp lines and aggressive stance. The V-Motion grille and boomerang-shaped headlights create a striking visual presence. In contrast, the Sonata’s exterior is more conservative, featuring a fluidic design with a wide grille and angular headlights. Both vehicles offer stylish alloy wheels and LED lighting options, enhancing their aesthetic appeal.
Interior Comfort and Convenience
Inside, the Altima offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The seats provide ample support and comfort, while the intuitive infotainment system is easy to use. The Sonata’s interior is equally spacious and features a modern design with a floating touchscreen display. Both sedans offer a range of amenities, including heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assist systems.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The Nissan Altima is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. The Sonata, on the other hand, offers a choice of two engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, or a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Both vehicles come with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and efficient shifting. In terms of fuel economy, the Altima has a slight edge over the Sonata, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 39 mpg highway compared to 27 mpg city and 37 mpg highway for the Sonata.
Safety Features: Protecting You and Your Loved Ones
Safety is a paramount concern for both Nissan and Hyundai. The Altima comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Sonata also offers a comprehensive safety package, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and driver attention warning. Both vehicles have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Technology and Connectivity
The Nissan Altima and Hyundai Sonata are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and connectivity features. The Altima’s infotainment system features a user-friendly interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Sonata’s system offers similar features, including a larger touchscreen display and a premium Bose audio system. Both vehicles provide access to a range of connected services, such as remote start, vehicle diagnostics, and navigation.
Pricing and Value
The Nissan Altima has a starting price of $24,990, while the Hyundai Sonata starts at $24,550. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels, with the top-of-the-line Altima Platinum costing $34,990 and the Sonata Limited topping out at $34,200. When comparing similar trim levels, the Altima and Sonata offer a comparable value proposition, providing a balance of features, performance, and safety.
The Verdict: A Closely Contested Battle
The Nissan Altima and Hyundai Sonata are both excellent midsize sedans that offer a high level of comfort, style, and safety. The Altima has a slight edge in terms of fuel economy and interior space, while the Sonata boasts a more powerful engine and a more advanced infotainment system. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual preferences and priorities. If you value fuel efficiency and a roomy interior, the Altima is a great option. If you prioritize performance and technology, the Sonata might be a better fit.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Hyundai Sonata offers a more powerful 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
Q: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy rating?
A: The Nissan Altima has a slight edge in fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 39 mpg highway compared to 27 mpg city and 37 mpg highway for the Sonata.
Q: Which vehicle offers a larger touchscreen display?
A: The Hyundai Sonata features a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen display, while the Nissan Altima has an 8-inch touchscreen display.
Q: Which vehicle has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Nissan Altima and Hyundai Sonata have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Q: Which vehicle has a lower starting price?
A: The Hyundai Sonata has a slightly lower starting price of $24,550 compared to $24,990 for the Nissan Altima.
