What To Know
- The Altima features a sleek and modern dashboard with an intuitive infotainment system, while the Avalon has a more traditional and luxurious design with high-quality materials.
- In terms of features, the Altima offers a wide range of standard amenities, including a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a six-speaker sound system.
- The Altima offers a more affordable entry point, while the Avalon provides a higher level of standard features and a more luxurious experience.
In the competitive world of midsize sedans, the Nissan Altima and Toyota Avalon stand out as two of the most popular and well-regarded options. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of comfort, performance, and features, making them ideal for families, commuters, and road trippers alike. But which one is the better choice for you? To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together this comprehensive comparison of the Nissan Altima vs. Toyota Avalon.
Performance
Both the Altima and Avalon offer a choice of engines, with the Altima’s standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 182 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. The Avalon’s standard 3.5-liter V6 delivers a more robust 301 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking even more power, the Altima offers a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, while the Avalon has a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor for a total of 215 horsepower.
In terms of fuel economy, the Altima with the standard engine achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city/39 mpg highway. The Avalon with the V6 engine gets 22 mpg city/31 mpg highway, while the hybrid model boasts an impressive 43 mpg city/44 mpg highway.
Handling and Ride Quality
The Altima and Avalon handle differently, with the Altima offering a more sporty and agile feel. Its independent front and rear suspensions provide responsive handling and good cornering ability. The Avalon, on the other hand, prioritizes comfort with its plush suspension that absorbs bumps and road imperfections well.
Interior and Features
Both the Altima and Avalon offer spacious and well-appointed interiors. The Altima features a sleek and modern dashboard with an intuitive infotainment system, while the Avalon has a more traditional and luxurious design with high-quality materials.
In terms of features, the Altima offers a wide range of standard amenities, including a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a six-speaker sound system. The Avalon comes with an even more comprehensive suite of features, including an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, a premium sound system, and heated and ventilated front seats.
Safety
Both the Altima and Avalon have received top 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 automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Price and Value
The Nissan Altima has a starting price of $24,490, while the Toyota Avalon starts at $36,825. The Altima offers a more affordable entry point, while the Avalon provides a higher level of standard features and a more luxurious experience.
Which One is Right for You?
The Nissan Altima is a great choice for those seeking a sporty and fuel-efficient midsize sedan at a competitive price. The Toyota Avalon, on the other hand, is ideal for those who prioritize comfort, luxury, and a comprehensive suite of features.
The Bottom Line: The Ultimate Choice
Ultimately, the best choice between the Nissan Altima and Toyota Avalon depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value affordability, sportiness, and fuel economy, the Altima is an excellent option. If you’re looking for a more luxurious and comfortable ride with a wide range of features, the Avalon is the better choice.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which car has better fuel economy, the Altima or the Avalon?
A: The Altima with the standard engine has better fuel economy than the Avalon with the V6 engine. The Avalon hybrid model has the best fuel economy of all.
Q: Which car has a more spacious interior?
A: The Altima and Avalon have similar interior space, with the Avalon offering slightly more legroom in the front and rear seats.
Q: Which car has a more advanced infotainment system?
A: The Avalon has a more advanced infotainment system with a larger touchscreen, navigation, and a premium sound system.
Q: Which car has better safety ratings?
A: The Altima and Avalon have both received top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.
Q: Which car is more affordable?
A: The Altima has a lower starting price than the Avalon.