The Nissan Altima vs. Maxima debate is all about what you want in a sedan. The Altima is practical and efficient and offers all-wheel drive. It’s a solid choice for everyday driving.
The Maxima, on the other hand, is built for power and a sportier feel. Both have their strengths. However, which Nissan vehicle makes more sense for you? Let’s take a closer look.
Power or Efficiency? What Matters More to You?
If fuel savings are a priority, the Nissan Altima is the better choice. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 188 horsepower with front-wheel drive and 182 horsepower with all-wheel drive. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it provides a smooth, quiet ride and solid efficiency–up to 39 miles per gallon on the highway.
The Maxima, on the other hand, is for drivers who want more power. Its 3.5-liter V6 produces 300 horsepower. This gives it faster acceleration and a sportier feel.
However, more power means more trips to the pump. The Maxima gets up to 30 miles per gallon on the highway, which is decent for a V6 but lower than what the Altima offers.
A Roomy Cabin or a Sporty Feel?
Both sedans seat five passengers. Nevertheless, their interiors cater to different tastes. The Altima is designed for comfort, with spacious seating and a practical layout.
The rear doors open wide. This makes it easier to get in and out, especially helpful if you’re loading up kids or cargo. It also brings more trunk space, with 15.4 cubic feet of storage.
The Maxima leans into a sportier, more upscale vibe. The dashboard has a driver-focused design, and higher trims come with premium materials like leather seats and ambient lighting. While it feels more high-end, it sacrifices a bit of practicality; trunk space is slightly smaller, and the back seat is a bit tighter.
Tech That Keeps You Connected
Technology is a strong suit for both models. The Altima comes with a standard 8” touchscreen, with an available 12.3-inch display on higher trims. It has Android Auto as well as Apple CarPlay. This way, you can easily sync your phone for hands-free calls, navigation, and music.
The Maxima has similar tech, but it leans into premium touches. It comes with a high-end audio system and available NissanConnect services, which let you remotely start the car, lock and unlock doors, and check vehicle stats through an app.
Both models come standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, which includes features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. The Nissan Maxima adds a few extras, like an available Intelligent Around View Monitor that helps with parking in tight spots.
How Much Do You Want to Spend?
Price is where the Altima pulls ahead. The base model starts at $28,140. It’s an affordable choice for those who want a well-equipped, fuel-efficient sedan. Even with upgrades like all-wheel drive or a larger touchscreen, it remains budget-friendly.
The Maxima starts at $38,340. This reflects its extra horsepower, sportier design, and luxury features. If performance is a top priority and you’re willing to pay more for a premium experience, the Maxima is a strong contender.
However, if value and efficiency are higher on your list, the Altima gives you more for your money.
Nissan Altima vs. Maxima: Which Sedan Makes More Sense for You?
Are you looking for a reliable, comfortable, and efficient sedan with available all-wheel drive? The Altima is the way to go. It’s built for everyday driving, offers great fuel economy, and has plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
If you want a sportier ride with extra horsepower and a more upscale feel, the Maxima is the better fit. It’s a fun car to drive, especially for those who enjoy a little extra power under the hood.
At Montrose Nissan, we can help you decide which sedan is right for you. If you’re ready for a test drive or want to explore financing options, contact us today.