2018 Nissan Altima vs 2018 Nissan Sentra
Do you really need a midsize sedan? If you’re comparing the 2018 Nissan Altima vs 2018 Nissan Sentra, this is likely the question you’re asking yourself. Whether you have a family you don’t want to squeeze into a too-small model, or you happen to be a tall driver worried about head room, there are many reasons why you might be wondering if you can downsize your vehicle. After all, for its compact size, the 2018 Nissan Sentra has the advantage of being slightly easier to navigate through tight streets and into small parking spots. Then, there’s a lower starting price. Here’s what you need to know.
Both models seat five occupants, with the Altima offering 101.9 cubic feet of passenger volume and the Sentra offering 95.9 cubic feet. Cargo space is similar, with the Altima measured with a 15.4 cubic foot trunk ant the Sentra measured at 15.1 cubic feet. Clearly, the Altima is scaled up, but not so significantly that single drivers will feel let down. So what are the major differences?
2018 Nissan Altima |
vs |
2018 Nissan Sentra |
|---|---|---|
| $23,140 | Starting MSRP | $16,990 |
| 2.5-liter 4-cylinder | Standard Engine | 1.8-liter 4-cylinder |
| 179 horsepower/177 lb-ft of torque | Power | 124 horsepower/125 lb-ft of torque |
| Xtronic CVT | Transmission Options | 6-speed manual/CVT |
2018 Nissan Altima vs Nissan Sentra performance
We often think of different segments as translating strictly to size, but it’s more than that. You can see in the chart that the 2018 Nissan Altima has a much more potent base engine, though the Sentra is available in Nismo and SR Turbo trims that boost the output to 188 horsepower. In turn, the Altima has a V6 option with an impressive 270-horsepower output. Clearly, if you value a more energetic feeling behind the wheel, you’ll want to consider the 2018 Nissan Altima. Despite this extra potency, the two models have historically offered similar returns on fuel economy.
Naturally, when looking at a higher starting price, you want to know why you would pay more. It’s not just about the engine in the 2018 Nissan Altima. For this model year, both vehicles gain standard Automatic Emergency Braking on CVT-equipped vehicles. The Altima also adds on Intelligent Forward Collision Warning.
Standard features found on both vehicles include Bluetooth, cruise control with steering-wheel mounted buttons, Siri Eyes-Free, a 5-inch color display with rearview monitor, air conditioning, power windows and locks, and Smart Auto Headlights. The Altima additionally offers hands-free text messaging assistant, Nissan Intelligent Key with push-button ignition and six-speaker sound.
Still not sure which 2018 Nissan sedan you prefer? Stop by Glendale Nissan for a test drive and we’ll go over different trim levels and options with you.
