What To Know
- 0-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, while the Altima delivers a slightly better 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.
- The Impreza is the ideal choice for drivers who prioritize all-wheel drive capability, sporty handling, and fuel efficiency, while the Altima is better suited for those who seek a more refined and comfortable ride, advanced technology, and a comprehensive suite of safety features.
- The Nissan Altima delivers slightly better fuel economy than the Subaru Impreza, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway compared to the Impreza’s 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
The automotive industry is brimming with a plethora of midsize sedans, each vying for the attention of discerning drivers. Among the most popular contenders are the Subaru Impreza and the Nissan Altima, both renowned for their distinct strengths and compelling features. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of these two formidable rivals, providing an in-depth comparison of their performance, design, technology, safety, and price to help you make an informed decision about which sedan best aligns with your needs and preferences.
Performance and Handling
The Subaru Impreza and Nissan Altima offer contrasting driving experiences. The Impreza, with its standard all-wheel drive system, provides exceptional traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather conditions. Its agile handling and responsive steering make it a joy to navigate through corners. The Altima, on the other hand, boasts a more refined and comfortable ride, thanks to its front-wheel drive configuration and sophisticated suspension system. Its steering is well-weighted and offers precise feedback.
Engine Power and Fuel Economy
Under the hood, the Subaru Impreza offers a choice of two engines: a 2.0-liter flat-four engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter flat-four engine that generates 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. The Nissan Altima, on the other hand, comes standard with a 2.5-liter inline-four engine that produces 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. In terms of fuel economy, the Impreza with the 2.0-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, while the Altima delivers a slightly better 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.
Design and Style
The Subaru Impreza and Nissan Altima sport distinct design philosophies. The Impreza exudes a rugged and sporty aesthetic, with its sharp angles, bold grille, and pronounced wheel arches. The Altima, in contrast, presents a more refined and sophisticated appearance, characterized by its sleek lines, elegant curves, and chrome accents. Both sedans offer a spacious and well-appointed interior, with comfortable seating and ample cargo capacity.
Technology and Features
The Subaru Impreza and Nissan Altima come equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology and features. The Impreza features a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and a premium audio system. The Altima offers a more advanced infotainment system with a larger touchscreen, navigation, and a Bose sound system. Both sedans also boast a range of driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Safety Ratings
Safety is a paramount concern for both Subaru and Nissan. The Impreza has earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Altima has also received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA but has not yet been tested by the IIHS.
Price and Value
The Subaru Impreza has a starting price of $19,795, while the Nissan Altima starts at $24,990. The Impreza offers a more affordable entry point, while the Altima provides a more comprehensive range of features and a higher level of refinement. Ultimately, the best value proposition depends on the specific needs and budget of each individual buyer.
Final Verdict: The Ultimate Choice
The Subaru Impreza and Nissan Altima are both exceptional midsize sedans that offer a unique blend of performance, design, technology, safety, and value. The Impreza is the ideal choice for drivers who prioritize all-wheel drive capability, sporty handling, and fuel efficiency, while the Altima is better suited for those who seek a more refined and comfortable ride, advanced technology, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. Ultimately, the best decision depends on your individual preferences, driving habits, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which car has better fuel economy?
The Nissan Altima delivers slightly better fuel economy than the Subaru Impreza, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway compared to the Impreza’s 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
2. Which car has a more powerful engine?
The Nissan Altima has a more powerful engine than the Subaru Impreza, with its 2.5-liter inline-four engine producing 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque compared to the Impreza’s 2.5-liter flat-four engine that generates 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.
3. Which car has a larger cargo capacity?
The Nissan Altima offers a larger cargo capacity than the Subaru Impreza, with 15.4 cubic feet of trunk space compared to the Impreza’s 12.3 cubic feet.
4. Which car has a better safety rating?
Both the Subaru Impreza and Nissan Altima have earned five-star overall safety ratings from the NHTSA, but the Impreza has received a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS, while the Altima has not yet been tested by the IIHS.
5. Which car is more affordable?
The Subaru Impreza is more affordable than the Nissan Altima, with a starting price of $19,795 compared to the Altima’s starting price of $24,990.