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Nissan Sentra VS. Nissan Altima - Which One Is Right For You?
Choosing between the Nissan Sentra and Nissan Altima can be a tough decision. Both models offer excellent features and performance, but they cater to different needs and preferences. In this article, we'll break down the key differences to help you decide which one suits you best.
Overview of the Nissan Sentra
The Nissan Sentra is one of the most affordable new cars available. It comes equipped with advanced driver-assistance technologies, including automated emergency braking and rear-cross-traffic alert. The Sentra features a 149-hp four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive.
What's New for 2024?
-Redesigned headlights and taillights
-New bumper design
-New 16- and 18-inch wheel options
-Xtronic CVT for improved fuel economy
-Engine start-stop feature
-New Nissan logo on the steering wheel
Pricing and Which One to Buy
-Sentra S: $22,320*
-Sentra SV: $23,250*
-Sentra SR: $25,410*
The SV trim offers adaptive cruise control and dual-zone automatic climate control. The SV Premium package includes heated front seats, quilted leather upholstery, a leather shift knob, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a sunroof.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Standard features:
-Forward-collision warning
-Automated emergency braking
-Blind-spot monitoring
-Rear cross-traffic alert
-Rear automated emergency braking
Optional features include adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Sentra’s 149-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is coupled with a CVT and front-wheel drive. It features an independent rear suspension and wheel sizes ranging from 16 to 18 inches. The braking system is robust, with a stopping distance of 170 feet from 70 mph.
Fuel Economy
2023 Sentra: 29 mpg city, 39 mpg highway
Sentra SR: 28 mpg city, 37 mpg highway
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Sentra’s interior blends soft and hard plastics. Options include quilted leather upholstery and spacious Zero Gravity front seats. The trunk offers 14 cubic feet of space, fitting seven carry-on suitcases.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Standard features include a 7.0-inch display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SV and SR trims offer an 8.0-inch screen. Additional options include SiriusXM satellite radio, an eight-speaker Bose stereo, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
Overview of the Nissan Altima
The 2024 Nissan Altima starts at $27,510* and offers a more powerful engine lineup compared to the Sentra. The base engine is a 188-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder, achieving up to 39 mpg on the highway. An optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 248 horsepower and returns 34 mpg on the highway. All-wheel drive is available for enhanced handling.
What's New for 2024?
NissanConnect Services now includes a three-year trial instead of a six-month trial.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
-S: $27,510*
-SV: $28,310*
-SR: $29,710*
-SL: $34,210*
-SR VC-Turbo: $37,210*
The SR trim includes an eight-way power driver's seat, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, an upgraded digital gauge cluster, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The SR trim can be optioned with all-wheel drive for $1,500.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Altima’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 188 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine produces 248 horsepower. The Altima with the 2.5-liter engine and all-wheel drive hits 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, while the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine version reaches 60 mph in 5.9 seconds.
Fuel Economy
-Base 2.5-liter engine (front-wheel drive): 27 mpg city, 39 highway
-Base 2.5-liter engine (all-wheel drive): 26 mpg city, 36 highway
-Turbocharged 2.0-liter engine: 25 mpg city, 34 highway
On a 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, the all-wheel-drive Altima achieved 35 mpg, and the VC-Turbo version recorded 37 mpg.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Altima features a mix of soft and hard plastics. Standard is an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SL and SR trims get a 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation, wireless phone charging, and a WiFi hotspot. The rear seats offer ample legroom, and the trunk accommodates six carry-on bags, expanding to 17 with the rear seats folded.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Standard features include an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The larger 12.3-inch screen with navigation, wireless phone charging, and WiFi hotspot is available on SL and SR trims and optional on SV models.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The Altima has a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard features include:
-Forward-collision warning
-Automated emergency braking
-Blind-spot monitoring
-High-beam assist
-Rear cross-traffic alert
Optional features include adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. ProPilot Assist, a semi-autonomous drive mode, is also available.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with essential features and good fuel economy, the Nissan Sentra is a solid choice. It’s ideal for city driving and offers a comfortable interior with plenty of standard safety features.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more power, luxury, and the option for all-wheel drive, the Nissan Altima might be the better fit. It’s a great option for those who frequently travel long distances or need extra performance capabilities.
Visit Landers Nissan Today
Still unsure which Nissan is right for you? Visit Landers Nissan in Southaven, MS, to test drive both models and find your perfect match. Our knowledgeable staff will help you compare features, pricing, and performance to make an informed decision.
*Prices are subject to change and may vary based on the model year, trim, and additional options. Please visit our dealership for the most current pricing and availability.