When your biggest priorities for your next car are fuel efficiency and maneuverability, odds are you'll wind up considering Nissan Sentra vs. Altima models. These sporty-looking sedans are both high-performing and athletic, but you may be wondering how they compare in terms of overall capability, fuel economy, reliability, safety, and value. Lorenzo Nissan Ft. Lauderdale presents you with the highlights of both vehicles.
While both sedans rely on efficient, four-cylinder engines, you'll get 39 more horsepower from the Nissan Altima, as the chart below demonstrates.
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| 2026 NISSAN SENTRA VS. NISSAN ALTIMA PERFORMANCE SPECS | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Nissan Sentra | 2026 Nissan Altima | |
| Body Style | Compact sedan | Midsize sedan |
| Engine | 2L DOHC 16-valve 4-cyl | 2.5L DOHC 16-valve 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 149 hp @ 6,400 rpm | 188 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 146 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm | 180 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD or AWD |
| Transmission | CVT | Xtronic CVT |
| Turning Diameter | 38 ft | 37.4 ft |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy) | Up to 30 / 381 | Up to 26 / 362 |
| Fuel Tank Size | 12.4 gal | 16.19 gal |
| Powertrain Limited Warranty | 60 months / 60,000 miles3 | 60 months / 60,000 miles3 |
| Basic Warranty | 36 months / 36,000 miles3 | 36 months / 36,000 miles3 |
| 0-60 MPH Time | 9.1 seconds4 | 8.8 seconds5 |
If the Altima scores a point for power, the Sentra ties the game up with fuel efficiency. This model manages to outpace many competitors' MPG figures without the use of hybrid technology or the need for premium fuel.
Keep in mind that the MPG figures above show the Sentra vs. Altima with their standard FWD drivetrains. The Nissan Altima can also be equipped with available AWD to improve performance and handling during intense weather or road conditions, but your fuel efficiency will dip slightly to 25/33 MPG (City/Highway).6 Still, having Active Ride Control and Intelligent Trace Control in both models can boost your confidence when you're tackling hills and curves.
Curious how previous iterations of the Sentra deliver in terms of performance and specs? See our used Nissan Sentra inventory now.
While the roads around you might have become increasingly populated by SUVs, there are still many advantages to driving a sedan, including the ease with which you can get around cityscapes and parking garages. Compare Nissan Altima and Sentra dimensions below to gain a better understanding of how they measure up to each other:
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| 2026 NISSAN SENTRA VS. NISSAN ALTIMA DIMENSIONS | ||
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Nissan Sentra | 2026 Nissan Altima | |
| Length | 183 in | 192.9 in |
| Height | 57.1 in | 56.8-57.4 in |
| Width | 71.5 in | 72.9 in |
| Ground Clearance | 4.7-4.8 in | 5.1-5.4 in |
| Passenger Volume | 96.1 cu ft | 100.6 cu ft |
| Legroom (1st / 2nd Row) | 44 / 34.8 in | 43.8 / 35.2 in |
| Headroom (1st / 2nd Row w/o Moonroof) | 38.9 / 36.7-38.9 in | 39.1 / 36.9 in |
| Headroom (1st / 2nd Row w/ Moonroof) | 37.5 / 36.7 in | 38 / 36.7 in |
| Cargo Space | 14.3 cu ft | 15.4 cu ft |
Given the differences between the Sentra vs. Altima interior, drivers will likely appreciate that they can have around 44 inches of front-row legroom in either model, as well as similar headroom in both the first and second-row seats. However, those who plan to transport adults in the back or who would like more cargo room may prefer the Altima. The Sentra is better suited for smaller families or couples who prefer a more nimble ride.
If you're interested in one of our competitive Nissan Sentra deals, you can personalize your drive with your choice of trim. The 2026 Nissan Sentra has the following options:
Meanwhile, the 2026 Nissan Altima has four trims:
The SR is considered the sportiest tier for both cars, but generally speaking, each successive trim level gets you access to higher-grade amenities and tech features:
| 2026 NISSAN SENTRA VS. NISSAN ALTIMA FEATURES & TECH | ||
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| 2026 Nissan Sentra | 2026 Nissan Altima | |
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As you can tell, the revamped Nissan Sentra gives you standard access to upscale amenities like a larger touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and Adaptive Intelligent Cruise Control – all at a lower MSRP. The Altima may lack some of these standard high-tech features, but it does compensate with its superior performance, cabin space, and more luxurious upholstery options.
Check out our selection of used Nissan Altima models for similar amenities but at an even lower price.
Even more notable is that Nissan automakers think that safety is a necessity, not a luxury, which is why Nissan Safety Shield 360 technology is infused at every trim level. This suite gives you access to features such as Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. While the 2026 iteration of the Sentra has not been rated by the NHTSA, the 2025 version did score five stars,7 so we expect the 2026 model to do the same. Both models received high marks on reliability, which you can see below in the chart.
| 2026 NISSAN SENTRA VS. NISSAN ALTIMA SAFETY, RELIABILITY, AND DRIVER-ASSISTANCE TECH | ||
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| 2026 Nissan Sentra | 2026 Nissan Altima | |
| Standard Safety Features |
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| NHTSA Safety Rating | Not yet rated | 5 stars7 |
| Reliability Rating (RepairPal) | 4 out of 58 | 4 out of 59 |
For a Sentra vs. Altima comparison of your preferred trims, contact our team at Lorenzo Nissan Ft. Lauderdale today. We can also discuss available packages for each car if you would like to enhance your vehicle further.
Which is best: the Nissan Sentra or Nissan Altima? If that's your question, we hope that this guide has helped you find answers. However, we're also free to answer more specific inquiries when you stop by our dealership for a tour. Our goal is to give you a wide swath of options so that you know you're choosing the right vehicle for your lifestyle. With that in mind, we can help you find Altima deals until you're 100% satisfied or build the sedan of your dreams online, which can be later picked up at our location.
Are you located in or around the Ft. Lauderdale area? If so, check out our Ft. Lauderdale Nissan deals and see how you can save on a new Nissan Sentra or Nissan Altima, as well as other models.
At Lorenzo Nissan Ft. Lauderdale, we aim to be your preferred Broward County Nissan dealer and earn your business long after you drive off the lot. Get in touch with us soon to get started!
Between the Nissan Sentra and the Nissan Altima, the smaller Nissan Sentra obtains better fuel economy. It can achieve up to an EPA-estimated 30/38 MPG (City/Highway)1 while the Nissan Altima delivers up to 26/36 MPG (City/Highway) with a 2.5-liter engine and FWD.2. However, the Nissan Altima has a larger gas tank capacity, allowing it to go farther on a full tank.
The Nissan Altima with available AWD is a larger, more powerful sedan than the Nissan Sentra. It also has a higher starting MSRP across its trim lineup. The smaller Nissan Sentra thrives in city settings, where it has an easier time navigating tight streets and tight parking spaces than other cars. It also has the benefit of being more fuel-efficient and has more advanced standard features.
Yes, the Nissan Altima has larger dimensions than the Nissan Sentra when it comes to its length and width, and maximum available height. The Nissan Altima is 9.9 inches longer and 1.4 inches wider than the Nissan Sentra. Interestingly, despite the larger size, both cars have around 44 inches of front legroom, but there's more rear-seat legroom in the Nissan Altima.
The 2026 Nissan Sentra is produced in Aguascalientes, Mexico, specifically at the Nissan Mexicana facility. This location serves as the key hub for assembling the Nissan Sentra for the North American market. The Nissan Altima is built in the U.S., primarily at the Smyrna, Tennessee, plant, although it has also been produced in Canton, Mississippi, in the past to meet a higher level of demand.
The Nissan Sentra is slower than the Altima, although both sedans are quite neck-and-neck when it comes to acceleration. Third-party testers report a 0-60 mph time of 8.8 seconds5 for the Altima, whereas the Sentra can cover the same distance in 9.1 seconds.4 To get a true sense of their hp ratings and top speed, we highly recommend scheduling a test drive at Lorenzo Nissan Ft. Lauderdale.
Yes, sedans are making a comeback as many drivers are rediscovering their practicality, efficiency, and refined driving experience. Modern sedans offer advanced safety features, improved fuel economy, and sleek designs that rival many SUVs in the market today.
Although it was rumored that Nissan was slated to discontinue the Altima after the 2025 model year, the sedan remains in the lineup for 2026. The 2026 Altima carries over many of the features and styling from the outgoing model, but includes a new Midnight Edition trim level for a bolder and more mysterious appearance.
The 2026 Nissan Altima and 2026 Nissan Sentra do not share the same engine. The 2026 Nissan Sentra is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 149 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. The 2026 Nissan Altima, on the other hand, is powered by a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 188 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque.
11/12/25
Many thanks to the amazing Nissan team! We bought two awesome Nissan Sentra SV, everything worked out! Special thanks to our sale person John BENIGNO, nice manager FACUNDO he make sure everything fix good before I’m leaving with the car and our finance manager Hassan for their friendliness, professionalism. The cars are amazing, and I enjoy driving every single day!
2/13/25
Maurice Madmon and Facundo Constanzo sold me my Altima yesterday and I cannot say enough about their knowledge and excellent service. Literally everyone at this location was awesome from the service department to the finance office. Great teamwork in delivering AAA+ service to your clients!
4/19/25
The Sales Manager Alex at Lorenzo Nissan was patient and knowledgeable, he helped me get into an amazing car! My Nissan Altima was totally worth it! I totally highly recommend his services!
12026 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 30 City MPG / 38 Highway MPG / 33 Combined MPG for Nissan Sentra S, SV with FWD. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
22026 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 26 City MPG / 36 Highway MPG / 30 Combined MPG for Nissan Altima SV, SV Special Edition, SR, and SR Midnight Edition with FWD. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
3Whichever time/mileage designation comes first. Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
4This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.caranddriver.com/nissan/sentra
5This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.edmunds.com/nissan/altima/
62026 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 25 City MPG / 33 Highway MPG / 28 Combined MPG for Nissan Altima SV Intelligent AWD. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov.
8Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/nissan/sentra
9Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/reliability/nissan/altima