What To Know
- The Subaru Impreza, with its smaller engine and available CVT, slightly surpasses the Altima with an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
- The Altima offers a slightly higher level of standard equipment and a more powerful engine, while the Impreza provides better fuel economy and a more engaging driving experience.
- The Subaru Impreza is slightly more fuel-efficient than the Nissan Altima, with EPA-estimated fuel economy figures of 29 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
In the competitive midsize sedan segment, two formidable contenders stand out: the Nissan Altima and the Subaru Impreza. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of style, performance, and value, making them popular choices among discerning drivers. But which one truly reigns supreme? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key aspects of each car to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Powertrain
The Nissan Altima boasts a robust 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. It comes paired with a standard continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and efficient power delivery. In contrast, the Subaru Impreza offers a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT.
While the Altima has a slight edge in power output, the Impreza’s standard manual transmission offers a more engaging driving experience for enthusiasts.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration in the midsize sedan segment. The Nissan Altima delivers impressive fuel economy figures, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. The Subaru Impreza, with its smaller engine and available CVT, slightly surpasses the Altima with an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
The Nissan Altima offers a comfortable and well-balanced ride, with a suspension that effectively absorbs road imperfections. It provides stable handling and responsive steering, making it a pleasure to drive on both city streets and highways. The Subaru Impreza, on the other hand, excels in handling and agility. Its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides exceptional traction and stability, particularly in slippery or challenging driving conditions.
Interior and Features
Inside, the Nissan Altima features a spacious and well-appointed cabin. It comes standard with a user-friendly infotainment system, comfortable seating, and ample storage space. The Subaru Impreza offers a more compact interior, but it still provides ample headroom and legroom. It also features a user-friendly infotainment system and a variety of convenience features.
Safety
Safety is paramount in any vehicle, and both the Nissan Altima and Subaru Impreza excel in this regard. The Altima comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Impreza also offers a wide range of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking.
Price and Value
The Nissan Altima has a starting price of $24,990, while the Subaru Impreza starts at $19,795. The Altima offers a slightly higher level of standard equipment and a more powerful engine, while the Impreza provides better fuel economy and a more engaging driving experience. Ultimately, the best value depends on your individual priorities and budget.
Final Verdict: Nissan Altima vs Subaru Impreza
The Nissan Altima and Subaru Impreza are both excellent midsize sedans that offer a compelling blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and features. The Altima excels in power output, interior space, and safety features, while the Impreza shines in handling, fuel economy, and value.
If you prioritize power, a spacious cabin, and advanced safety features, the Nissan Altima is the better choice. If you value handling, fuel efficiency, and a more engaging driving experience, the Subaru Impreza is the way to go.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which car has a more powerful engine?
The Nissan Altima has a more powerful engine, generating 188 horsepower compared to the Subaru Impreza’s 152 horsepower.
2. Which car is more fuel-efficient?
The Subaru Impreza is slightly more fuel-efficient than the Nissan Altima, with EPA-estimated fuel economy figures of 29 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
3. Which car has a better safety rating?
Both the Nissan Altima and Subaru Impreza have received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).