Do you need a midsize sedan? When it comes to deciding on what your next ride is going to be, you're going to want to weigh your options. If you have a family to accommodate or if you're a particularly tall driver who needs to consider headroom and legroom, there are many reasons you might be considering the Nissan Sentra and the Nissan Altima.
To make the decision easier for you, we crafted this detailed comparison between the 2019 Nissan Sentra and the 2019 Nissan Altima. Although both sedans come with great features, only one can be your next ride. Find out which one best meets your needs with our comprehensive 2019 Nissan Sentra vs. Nissan Altima comparison before coming by Dartmouth Nissan for a test drive!
Performance
There's more to comparing two sedans than just their size. The 2019 Nissan Altima packs a punch with its potent engine, a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that produces up to 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. For a boost in power, though, you can select the available 2.0L VC-Turbo™ engine, which delivers 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque when using 93-octane fuel.
As for the Nissan Sentra, it comes equipped with a 1.8L 4-cylinder engine, which generates 130 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. If you crave more power, then there's the turbocharged 1.6L 4-cylinder engine that produces 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque.
When it comes to standard fuel economy, the Altima achieves an EPA-estimated 28 city/39 highway MPG.1Â The Sentra isn't far behind, either, with an EPA-estimated 27 city/35 highway MPG.1
Capability
With its robust engines, it's no surprise that the Nissan Altima capably handles a variety of terrain. With available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, the system constantly monitors road conditions to quickly adapt to detected changes. Plus, the engines can be paired to the optional Xtronic CVT® (continuously variable transmission) for a more spirited driving experience.
As for the Nissan Sentra, it also comes available with the Xtronic CVT®. However, the Sentra SR Turbo, a higher trim level, offers an exclusive CVT with Manual Shift Mode for an even more engaging ride around highways and backroads. Plus, with standard Eco mode, you can maximize the fuel efficiency of the Sentra.
Safety
Both the Nissan Sentra and Altima aim to keep you and your passengers safe during your commutes and adventures. With both Nissan sedans, you'll find available driver-assisting systems to keep you alert on the road, including:
- Automatic Emergency Braking: By monitoring the speed and distance between you and the car ahead, this system will warn you when you need to slow down. It can even autonomously brake if it senses an imminent frontal collision.
- Blind Spot Warning: If this system detects an oncoming car in your blind spot zone, it'll alert you to its presence, so you can confidently change lanes.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert: While reversing out of a tight parking spot, this feature will warn you if it detects a vehicle approaching from your side.
2019 Nissan Sentra vs Altima Verdict
Both sedans pack quite a punch for their size. They're versatile, fuel-efficient, and easy to drive. While the Altima delivers more standard power, the Sentra also proves itself worthy with its performance-enhancing features. When it comes down to it, choosing between these two Nissan sedans depends on your driving lifestyle and automotive needs.
We encourage you to stop by our dealership, Dartmouth Nissan, if you're in the Dartmouth, New Bedford, or Fall River areas to give one of these Nissans a test drive for yourself.
1Â Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.