Main points
- The base engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT, while the turbocharged engine comes exclusively with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).
- 5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged Altima gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
- The Hyundai Elantra with the base engine achieves an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged Elantra gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
In the automotive realm, the Nissan Altima and Hyundai Elantra stand out as two compelling options in the midsize sedan segment. Both vehicles offer a blend of style, performance, and features that cater to a wide range of drivers. However, discerning the finer points of difference between these two contenders can be a daunting task. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of the Nissan Altima and Hyundai Elantra, unveiling their strengths, weaknesses, and unique characteristics to help you make an informed decision.
Exterior: Sleek Designs with Distinct Personalities
When it comes to aesthetics, the Nissan Altima and Hyundai Elantra present strikingly different approaches. The Altima exudes a sleek and sophisticated aura with its sharp lines, angular accents, and bold grille. In contrast, the Elantra embraces a more fluid and curvaceous design language, characterized by sweeping lines, a prominent grille, and intricately designed headlights. Both vehicles offer a range of vibrant color options to suit diverse preferences.
Interior: Comfort, Convenience, and Technological Prowess
Stepping inside the Nissan Altima reveals a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The seats offer ample support and comfort, while the dashboard layout is intuitive and user-friendly. The Altima boasts a generous amount of legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable ride for both front and rear passengers.
The Hyundai Elantra matches the Altima in terms of interior space and comfort. Its cabin is adorned with high-quality materials and features a sleek and modern design. The infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, and the Elantra offers a plethora of advanced safety features as standard.
Performance: Balancing Power and Efficiency
Under the hood, the Nissan Altima offers a choice of two powertrains: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that delivers smooth and efficient power delivery.
The Hyundai Elantra also offers two engine options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The base engine is mated to a six-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT, while the turbocharged engine comes exclusively with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).
Fuel Efficiency: Optimizing Mileage for Cost-Conscious Drivers
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Nissan Altima and Hyundai Elantra deliver impressive figures. The Altima with the 2.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged Altima gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
The Hyundai Elantra with the base engine achieves an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged Elantra gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.
Safety: Prioritizing Passenger Protection
Both the Nissan Altima and Hyundai Elantra have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). They come equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control.
The Altima offers additional safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Elantra counters with features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and a driver attention warning system.
Price: Value for Money and Trim Level Options
The Nissan Altima has a starting price of $24,900 for the base S trim level, while the top-of-the-line Platinum trim starts at $34,490. The Hyundai Elantra has a slightly lower starting price of $23,650 for the SE trim level, and the top-of-the-line Limited trim starts at $29,400.
Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels with varying features and amenities, allowing buyers to choose the configuration that best suits their needs and budget.
Key Points: Unveiling the Winner
The Nissan Altima and Hyundai Elantra are both excellent choices in the midsize sedan segment. They offer a compelling blend of style, performance, fuel efficiency, safety, and value for money. Ultimately, the decision between these two vehicles depends on personal preferences, driving needs, and budget constraints.
Those seeking a sleek and sophisticated design, ample power, and a comfortable ride may find the Nissan Altima more appealing. Drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency, a spacious cabin, and a comprehensive suite of safety features may prefer the Hyundai Elantra.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
The Nissan Altima with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 248 horsepower, while the Hyundai Elantra with the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine generates 201 horsepower.
2. Which vehicle offers better fuel efficiency?
The Hyundai Elantra with the base engine achieves an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway, while the Nissan Altima with the 2.5-liter engine gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.
3. Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
Both the Nissan Altima and Hyundai Elantra offer generous interior space. However, the Altima has slightly more legroom and headroom, especially in the rear seats.
4. Which vehicle offers more advanced safety features?
The Nissan Altima and Hyundai Elantra both offer a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. However, the Altima offers additional features such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, while the Elantra counters with features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and a driver attention warning system.
5. Which vehicle has a lower starting price?
The Hyundai Elantra has a slightly lower starting price of $23,650 for the SE trim level, while the Nissan Altima has a starting price of $24,900 for the base S trim level.