Fuel economy face-off: nissan altima vs subaru crosstrek – which saves you more?
What To Know
- The four-cylinder Altima achieves an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway, while the V6 model gets 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
- The Subaru Crosstrek, with its standard all-wheel drive system, returns slightly lower fuel economy ratings of 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
- In terms of technology, the Nissan Altima features an intuitive infotainment system with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim level.
In the realm of compact cars, the Nissan Altima and Subaru Crosstrek stand out as two formidable contenders. While both vehicles cater to different preferences and lifestyles, their shared attributes make for an intriguing comparison. This comprehensive guide will delve into the key aspects of each car, helping you make an informed decision between the Nissan Altima and Subaru Crosstrek.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Under the hood, the Nissan Altima offers a choice between two potent engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V6. The former delivers 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, while the latter boasts 280 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. The Subaru Crosstrek, on the other hand, comes equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Nissan Altima has the edge. The four-cylinder Altima achieves an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway, while the V6 model gets 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The Subaru Crosstrek, with its standard all-wheel drive system, returns slightly lower fuel economy ratings of 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Nissan Altima is known for its responsive handling and comfortable ride. Its independent suspension system absorbs road imperfections effectively, providing a smooth and composed driving experience. The Subaru Crosstrek, with its higher ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive, offers superior handling on rough terrain and in inclement weather conditions. However, its ride quality can be slightly firmer than the Altima’s, especially on uneven surfaces.
Interior Comfort and Space
Inside, the Nissan Altima impresses with its spacious cabin and high-quality materials. The front seats are supportive and provide ample legroom and headroom. The rear seats are equally comfortable, offering generous legroom for passengers. The Subaru Crosstrek, while not as spacious as the Altima, still provides ample room for both front and rear passengers. Its higher seating position offers excellent visibility, and the large windows contribute to a bright and airy cabin.
Cargo Capacity and Versatility
The Nissan Altima offers a generous 15.4 cubic feet of trunk space, which is sufficient for everyday errands and occasional road trips. The Subaru Crosstrek, with its hatchback design, provides a more versatile and spacious cargo area. With the rear seats folded down, the Crosstrek offers a maximum cargo capacity of 55.3 cubic feet, making it ideal for hauling bulky items or equipment.
Safety Features and Technology
Both the Nissan Altima and Subaru Crosstrek come well-equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Crosstrek also offers blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard, while the Altima offers these features as options.
In terms of technology, the Nissan Altima features an intuitive infotainment system with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim level. The Subaru Crosstrek offers a similar infotainment system with a 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Price and Value
The Nissan Altima has a starting price of $24,990 for the base S trim level. The top-of-the-line Platinum trim starts at $35,250. The Subaru Crosstrek, on the other hand, has a starting price of $24,545 for the base trim level. The top-of-the-line Limited trim starts at $31,345.
When it comes to value, the Nissan Altima offers a more well-rounded package for the money. It provides a spacious interior, responsive handling, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Subaru Crosstrek, while offering superior all-wheel drive capability and cargo versatility, comes at a slightly higher price point.
The Verdict: Which Car is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Nissan Altima and Subaru Crosstrek depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, interior space, and a comfortable ride, the Nissan Altima is an excellent choice. If you value all-wheel drive capability, cargo versatility, and a higher seating position, the Subaru Crosstrek is the better option.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Which car has better fuel economy?
A: The Nissan Altima has better fuel economy than the Subaru Crosstrek.
Q: Which car has more cargo space?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek has more cargo space than the Nissan Altima.
Q: Which car has more standard safety features?
A: Both the Nissan Altima and Subaru Crosstrek come well-equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features.
Q: Which car has a better infotainment system?
A: The Nissan Altima and Subaru Crosstrek both offer user-friendly infotainment systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Q: Which car is more expensive?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek is slightly more expensive than the Nissan Altima.