The Nissan Altima and Hyundai Sonata are solid choices for well-priced, high-performing, and comfortable mid-sized front-wheel-drive sedans. But which is the better fit for your lifestyle? Read on below to find out!
Hyundai Sonata Vs. Nissan Altima, Price Comparison
Overall, the Nissan Altima is slightly less expensive than the Hyundai Sonata for new and used vehicles of comparable mileage and condition. However, Hyundai has a better-extended warranty on new cars, balancing out the value.
Advantage: Tie
Hyundai Sonata Vs. Nissan Altima, Standard Features Comparison
Both the Hyundai Sonata and Nissan Altima share Bluetooth, Apple Car Play, Android Auto, and wide infotainment screens on new models. However, the Nissan Altima offers keyless ignition, whereas the Hyundai Sonata has adaptive cruise control. Yet, on higher-end trims, they share all the same features across model years.
Advantage: Tie
Photo Sources: Hyundai and Nissan Media
Hyundai Sonata Vs. Nissan Altima, Exterior Comparison
While aesthetics are subjective, the differences between the Hyundai Sonata and Nissan Altima are striking. The Hyundai Sonata has a modest approach to exterior aesthetics with smoother lines and a smaller front grille. Conversely, the Nissan Altima has a more memorable style with hard lines and a large front end that exemplifies its sporty aesthetic.
Advantage: Nissan Altima
Hyundai Sonata Vs. Nissan Altima, Comfort Comparison
The Hyundai Sonata and Nissan Altima share relatively the same leg room for front and back passengers and seat up to five comfortably. In the back, the Sonata may be more attractive to taller passengers as the headroom is slightly more forgiving. However, that is where the similarities stop. The Nissan Altima, after the 2013 model year, features Nissan's patented Zero-Gravity seats. The front seats each provide unsurpassed comfort, reducing the sensation of momentum and providing lumbar and shoulder support thanks to fourteen pressure points inlaid into the back to guide you into a more comfortable position.
Advantage: Nissan Altima
Photo Sources: Hyundai and Nissan Media
Hyundai Sonata Vs. Nissan Altima, Performance Comparison
While it varies across model year and trim options, the Hyundai Sonata and Nissan Altima have similar performance across the board.
Advantage: Tie
Hyundai Sonata Vs. Nissan Altima, Safety Rating Comparison
From 2020 onward, both the Hyundai Sonata and Nissan Altima have earned five-star safety ratings from the NHTSA and Good+ ratings from the IIHS.
Advantage: Tie
Hyundai Sonata Vs. Nissan Altima, Conclusion
With great standard features, fantastic performance, and incredible comfort, the Hyundai Sonata and Nissan Altima are a pair of great mid-sized sedans. Where the Sonata shines is its slightly larger size, better turning radius, and higher torque delivery to the wheels. The Nissan Altima is more extraordinary regarding its comfort, reliability, and aesthetics. Overall, we cannot recommend the Hyundai Sonata over the Nissan Altima. What the Sonata does right, the Altima does a bit better. Thanks to the zero-gravity seat technology, fantastic standard features, similar performance, and far better aesthetics, the Nissan Altima is the more remarkable vehicle by a decent margin.
Overall Winner: The Nissan Altima
