Head-to-Head: Nissan Sentra vs Altima

We’re comparing two of Nissan’s very popular sedans to find out if the Altima or the Sentra is the better buy in the economy segment.

Nissan Sentra vs the Altima: Which is the Better Buy?

For 2022 both the Altima and the Sentra get a new Midnight Edition but the similarities don’t stop there. Now, more than ever before, these sedans look very similar. They also share three very similar trims with identical names. All trims from both lines come with the same continuously variable transmission. Still, there’s quite a bit that differentiates them as well. Here’s a deep dive into their unique features, facets, and benefits. In the end, we’ll pick a winner and tell you which is best.

Specs

The Sentra is motivated by a 2.0-liter 149-horsepower engine and it sends all of that power to the front wheels through a CVT. That powertrain gets an EPA estimated 29 mpg in the city and 39 on the highway. The Sentra trim lineup has an MSRP ranging from $20,635 to $23,225. Of course, options can send that past $25,000. The base trim gets a 7-inch infotainment system while the two trims above use an 8-inch version and an updated driver information display.

The Altima is far more flexible with five trims and two different distinct powertrains. The base car uses a 188-horsepower four-cylinder and front-wheel drive. Buyers can opt for AWD which drops output to 182-horsepower. At the same time, the SR trim has a 2.0-liter turbo engine available which makes 248-horsepower on premium fuel. The base engine gets up to 28 mpg in the city and 39 on the highway. The turbo gets up to 25 mpg in the city and 34 on the highway. The trim lineup ranges from $25,775 to $35,475.

Driving & Performance

The Sentra is incredibly smooth thanks to its CVT but beyond that facet, it’s hard to really love the driving experience. It’s a bit loud, sends more vibration into the cabin than many of its rivals, and is far from engaging. At the same time, it’s not like it’s offensive. This is an economy vehicle after all so Nissan has to save cash somewhere. Steering and braking performance is below average for the segment. It doesn’t return clear communicative feedback.

The Altima starts out with a 188-horsepower and the same CVT. It’s not much more power but it’s enough that you notice right away after taking a drive in the Sentra. All-wheel-drive also adds nuance to the steering so we’d recommend it. It’s sad though that Nissan won’t allow buyers to pair that system with the punchy 2.0-liter Turbocharger. We imagine it would elevate the Altima to a whole new level of driver engagement. It’s notable that the Altima isn’t as loud or buzzy as the Sentra either.

Comfort & Interior

Nissan has made the inside of the Sentra look a lot more expensive than its price tag might suggest. The upright infotainment system and cannon-like climate vents are stylish design choices. We also like the mix of soft-touch surfaces and carbon-fiber-esque trim throughout. We also love how spacious and comfortable the ride quality is. The seats are supportive and even offer excellent headroom. Rear seat room isn’t a knock either as adults will have no problem fitting comfortably.

The Altima is understandably more mature. The seats, the dash and door panels look more expensive, and there’s clearly more space. Rear seat space is better too and the technology is improved as well. There are more charging ports in the Altima and more cargo space. Just like the Sentra, the Altima provides excellent ride quality but it’s far quieter inside. Ultimately, lots of features are identical between the two cars. The infotainment system, the driver information display, and the climate controls are carbon copies.

Trims & Features

The Sentra starts out with a trim called S. It features 16-inch steel wheels, a push-button start, and a 7-inch infotainment system equipped with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. It only comes with four speakers though. Every Sentra has blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and forward-collision mitigation.

The SV swaps steelie wheels for alloys but it also adds rear disc brakes, keyless entry, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an 8-inch touchscreen. A total of six speakers are included as well as adaptive cruise control, and an upgraded driver information display.

At the top of the range is the SR which gets 18-inch wheels, a dark chrome grille, LED headlights, LED fog lights, and dual-zone climate control. Buyers can add a Midnight Edition package with black trim and wheels. A Premium package adds a sunroof, simulated leather upholstery, and an eight-speaker Bose audio system.

The Altima also starts with the same three trim levels and mostly the same features.

The S gets six speakers, a six-way powerful adjustable driver’s seat, and remote start. It gets the same 16-inch steel wheels, infotainment system, cloth upholstery, and keyless entry. Every Altima comes with automatic high-beam headlights, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, a backup camera and more.

The SV adds LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, an 8-inch infotainment system, blind-spot monitoring, and two Nissan technologies that smooth the ride out and improve handling. Buyers can add a Premium package with a sunroof, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and ProPilot assist. That system includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.

The SR has a sports suspension on FWD models, 19-inch wheels, paddle shifters, and a bunch of unique trim. Buyers can also add the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.

2022 Nissan Altima Platinum - netcarshow.com

The SL is the first luxury trim on the Altima and it gets leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air vents, fog lights, integrated navigation, and a nine-speaker Bose sound system.

Platinum is at the top of the range and it gets 19-inch wheels, a universal garage door opener, driver’s seat memory settings, ambient interior lighting, and a 360-degree camera system.

The Verdict

These two cars are a great example of why automotive segments exist. The Sentra is the compact, inexpensive, economy vehicle for those who don’t need or can’t afford more. The Altima is a step up with a bit more space, a little more technology, and a high price tag. Ultimately, the one that’s right for you is going to depend totally on what your budget and personal needs are. Money no object, the Altima is clearly the better car since it offers more features.