Nissan altima vs subaru impreza: which is right for you? (spoiler: it’s a tough choice!)
What To Know
- Both the Nissan Altima and the Subaru Impreza have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- If you’re looking for a well-rounded sedan with a balance of performance, comfort, and safety, both the Nissan Altima and the Subaru Impreza are excellent options.
- The Nissan Altima offers a slightly more spacious interior than the Subaru Impreza, with more legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats.
When it comes to choosing a midsize sedan, two popular options are the Nissan Altima and the Subaru Impreza. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of comfort, style, and performance, but each has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Nissan Altima and the Subaru Impreza to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Powertrain
The Nissan Altima offers a range of engine options, including a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 188 horsepower and a 3.5-liter V6 generating 280 horsepower. The Subaru Impreza, on the other hand, comes exclusively with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 182 horsepower.
In terms of acceleration, the Altima with the V6 engine is noticeably quicker, reaching 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds compared to the Impreza’s 8.2 seconds. However, the Impreza’s standard all-wheel drive system provides superior traction and handling in slippery conditions.
Fuel Efficiency
The Nissan Altima‘s fuel economy varies depending on the engine option. The base four-cylinder model achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. The V6 engine, while more powerful, sacrifices some efficiency with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
The Subaru Impreza‘s fuel economy is slightly better, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. Its standard all-wheel drive system does not significantly impact its fuel efficiency.
Interior and Comfort
The interiors of both the Nissan Altima and the Subaru Impreza offer spacious and comfortable seating for up to five passengers. The Altima’s cabin features a more upscale design with premium materials and soft-touch surfaces. The Impreza’s interior is more utilitarian, but it still provides ample space and legroom.
In terms of technology, the Altima comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the Impreza offers a larger 10.1-inch screen. Both systems include features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation.
Safety Features
Both the Nissan Altima and the Subaru Impreza have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features on both vehicles include airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction control.
The Altima offers a more comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Impreza, on the other hand, comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight system, which includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking.
Price and Value
The Nissan Altima has a starting price of $25,290 for the base S trim level. The top-of-the-line Platinum trim starts at $35,590. The Subaru Impreza has a slightly lower starting price of $19,795 for the base model. The top-of-the-line Sport trim starts at $29,995.
When comparing price and value, the Impreza offers a more affordable option with a lower starting price. However, the Altima’s more powerful engine options and more comprehensive safety features may justify its higher price for some buyers.
Which One is Right for You?
The decision between the Nissan Altima and the Subaru Impreza ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance, luxury, and advanced safety features, the Nissan Altima is an excellent choice. If you value affordability, fuel efficiency, and all-weather traction, the Subaru Impreza is a strong contender.
Verdict: A Balanced Choice
Both the Nissan Altima and the Subaru Impreza are capable midsize sedans with distinct strengths and weaknesses. The Altima offers a more powerful engine, a more luxurious interior, and more advanced safety features. The Impreza, on the other hand, is more affordable, more fuel-efficient, and has standard all-wheel drive.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific priorities and budget. If you’re looking for a well-rounded sedan with a balance of performance, comfort, and safety, both the Nissan Altima and the Subaru Impreza are excellent options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which car has a more spacious interior?
A: The Nissan Altima offers a slightly more spacious interior than the Subaru Impreza, with more legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats.
Q: Which car is more reliable?
A: Both the Nissan Altima and the Subaru Impreza have a good reputation for reliability. However, the Impreza has slightly higher reliability ratings from J.D. Power and Associates.
Q: Which car has a better warranty?
A: The Nissan Altima comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Subaru Impreza comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, as well as a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty on the drivetrain.