What To Know
- The Nissan Altima with the four-cylinder engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.
- The Mazda CX-5 with the four-cylinder engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
- Both vehicles offer a range of advanced technology and safety features, but the Altima generally offers a better value for the money.
In the competitive midsize car market, the Nissan Altima and Mazda CX-5 stand out as two popular choices. Both offer a blend of style, practicality, and performance, but each has unique strengths and weaknesses. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between the Nissan Altima and Mazda CX-5 to help you make an informed decision on which vehicle is right for you.
Exterior Design
The Nissan Altima boasts a sleek and modern exterior design. Its sharp lines and angular features give it a sporty and aggressive look. The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, features a more refined and elegant design with a flowing body and subtle curves. Both vehicles offer a range of exterior color options to suit different tastes.
Interior Comfort and Features
Inside, the Nissan Altima offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, and there is ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The Mazda CX-5 also provides a comfortable interior, but it offers slightly less legroom in the rear seats. Both vehicles come standard with a variety of comfort and convenience features, including power windows, air conditioning, and a touchscreen infotainment system.
Technology and Connectivity
The Nissan Altima and Mazda CX-5 both offer a range of advanced technology and connectivity features. The Altima’s infotainment system is easy to use and responsive, and it supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The CX-5’s infotainment system is also user-friendly, and it offers additional features such as a navigation system and a Bose premium sound system.
Safety Features
Both the Nissan Altima and Mazda CX-5 have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They come standard with a variety of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The CX-5 offers a few additional safety features, such as lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring.
Performance and Handling
The Nissan Altima is available with two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a 3.5-liter V6 engine. The four-cylinder engine produces 188 horsepower, while the V6 engine produces 270 horsepower. The Mazda CX-5 comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower. Both vehicles offer a smooth and responsive ride, and they handle well in both city and highway driving.
Fuel Economy
The Nissan Altima with the four-cylinder engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. The V6 engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The Mazda CX-5 with the four-cylinder engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Price and Value
The Nissan Altima has a starting price of $24,500, while the Mazda CX-5 has a starting price of $26,800. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels and option packages, so the final price will vary depending on the specific configuration you choose. However, the Altima generally offers a better value for the money, as it comes standard with more features than the CX-5.
The Verdict
The Nissan Altima and Mazda CX-5 are both excellent midsize cars that offer a blend of style, practicality, and performance. The Altima offers a more spacious and comfortable interior, while the CX-5 offers a more refined and elegant design. Both vehicles offer a range of advanced technology and safety features, but the Altima generally offers a better value for the money. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Nissan Altima with the 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 270 horsepower, while the Mazda CX-5 with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 187 horsepower.
Q: Which vehicle has better fuel economy?
A: The Nissan Altima with the four-cylinder engine has better fuel economy than the Mazda CX-5 with the four-cylinder engine.
Q: Which vehicle is more affordable?
A: The Nissan Altima has a lower starting price than the Mazda CX-5.