2026 Nissan Sentra Vs. Nissan Altima Compared Side By Side
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-achieving and athletic, but which has more horsepower? Which edges out the other in MPGs? Which fits your budget better? Lorenzo Nissan presents you with the highlights of both vehicles.
2025 Sentra vs. Altima at a Glance
- The midsize Nissan Altima is 10 inches longer than the compact Nissan Sentra and comes with more cargo space.
- The Nissan Sentra has superior fuel efficiency, earning an EPA-estimated 30/40 MPG (City/Highway).1
- The Nissan Sentra is a front-wheel-drive-only vehicle, while the Nissan Altima has FWD standard but Intelligent AWD available.
- The Nissan Sentra has a lower MSRP than the Nissan Altima, but the Nissan Altima has more upscale features.
- Both sedans offer you a nimble, smooth driving experience supported by Nissan Safety Shield 360 driver assistance features.
Exploring Altima vs. Sentra Specs
While both sedans rely on efficient, four-cylinder engines, you'll get 39 more horsepower from the Nissan Altima, as the chart below demonstrates.
| 2025 Nissan Sentra | 2025 Nissan Altima | |
| Compact sedan | Body Style | Midsize sedan |
| 2L DOHC 16-valve 4-cyl | Engine | 2.5L DOHC 16-valve 4-cyl |
| 149 @ 6,400 rpm | Horsepower | 188 @ 6,000 rpm |
| 146 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm | Torque | 180 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm |
| FWD | Drivetrain | FWD or AWD |
| CVT | Transmission | CVT |
| 35.5 ft | Turning Diameter | 36-37.4 ft |
| Up to 30 / 401 | EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy) | Up to 27 / 392 |
| 12.41 gal | Fuel Tank Size | 16.19 gal |
| 60 months / 60,000 miles3 | Powertrain Limited Warranty | 60 months / 60,000 miles3 |
| 36 months / 36,000 miles3 | Basic Warranty | 36 months / 36,000 miles3 |
These performance specs carry over from the 2024 model year, although the Altima no longer has an available turbo engine. That being said, there may still be new 2024 models on our lot for you to test-drive. We can help you compare 2024 Nissan Altima vs. 2025 Nissan Altima options or debate the merits of a 2024 Nissan Altima vs. Toyota Camry when you stop by today.
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. For instance, the mild-hybrid 2025 Volvo S90 only achieves an EPA-estimated 23/31 MPG (City/Highway) with its B6 powertrain.4
Keep in mind that the MPG figures above show the Sentra versus Altima with their standard FWD drivetrains. The Nissan Altima can also be outfitted with available AWD to improve handling during intense weather situations, but your fuel efficiency will dip slightly to 25/34 MPG (City/Highway).5 Still, having Active Ride Control and Intelligent Trace Control in both models can boost your confidence when you're tackling hills and curves.
Sizing Up Nissan Sentra vs. Altima Models
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. We'll show you how these sedans measure up against one another:
| 2025 Nissan Sentra | 2025 Nissan Altima | |
| 182.9 in | Length | 192.9 in |
| 56.9 in | Height | 56.7-57.3 in |
| 71.5 in | Width | 72.9 in |
| 4.8-4.9 in | Ground Clearance | 4.9-5.4 in |
| 96.1 cu ft | Passenger Volume | 100.6 cu ft |
| 43.8 / 34.9 in | Legroom (1st / 2nd Row) | 43.8 / 35.2 in |
| 38.9 / 36.7 in | Headroom (1st / 2nd Row w/o Moonroof) | 39.1 / 36.9 in |
| 37.5 / 36.7 in | Headroom (1st / 2nd Row w/ Moonroof) | 38 / 36.7 in |
| 14.3 cu ft | Cargo Space | 15.4 cu ft |
Given their different sizes, drivers will likely appreciate that they can have nearly 44 inches of front-row legroom in either model, as well as Zero Gravity front seats, which are meant to help support their backs and reduce muscle aches during long car rides. However, those who plan to transport adults in the back row or who would like more cargo room might prefer the Altima.
2025 Nissan Sentra vs. Nissan Altima Trims
Whether you're interested in one of our competitive Nissan lease specials or finance offers, you can personalize your drive with your choice of trim. The 2025 Nissan Sentra has the following options:
- S
- SV
- SR
Meanwhile, the 2025 Nissan Altima has four trims:
- S
- SV
- SR
- SL
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:
| 2025 Nissan Sentra | 2025 Nissan Altima | |
| - 7-in Nissan Connect touchscreen
- 4-speaker audio system - Nissan Safety Shield 360 driver assistance suite - Remote keyless entry - 16-in steel wheels |
Standard Features | - 8-in Nissan Connect touchscreen
- 6-speaker audio system - Nissan Safety Shield 360 driver assistance suite - Remote keyless entry - 16-in steel wheels |
| - 8-in Nissan Connect touchscreen
- Moonroof - Leatherette seats - 8-speaker Bose® sound system - Remote engine start - 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels |
Available Features | - 12.3-in Nissan Connect touchscreen
- Moonroof - Leather upholstery - 9-speaker Bose® audio system - Remote engine start with climate control - Wireless Apple CarPlay® integration - Intelligent Around View Monitor - Traffic Sign Recognition - 19-in aluminum-alloy wheels |
As you can see, 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:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
- High Beam Assist
- Lane Departure Warning
- Blind Spot Warning
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Rear Automatic Braking
For a Sentra vs. Altima comparison of your preferred trims, contact our team at Lorenzo Nissan today. We can also discuss available packages for each car if you would like to enhance your vehicle further.
Compare Nissan Altima and Sentra Sedans at Lorenzo Nissan
Which is best: the Altima or Sentra? 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 shop all new Nissan inventory until you're 100% satisfied or build the sedan of your dreams online for later pickup at our location.
You'll be pleased to know that, in addition to the comprehensive warranty coverage both cars receive, new Nissan models come with 24 months/24,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance,6 and our on-site service department can help you take full advantage.
Nissan Sentra vs. Altima Frequently Asked Questions
Which has better gas mileage: Nissan Sentra vs. Altima?
Between the Nissan Sentra and the Nissan Altima, the smaller Nissan Sentra has the better gas mileage. It can achieve up to an EPA-estimated 30/40 MPG (City/Highway) with its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive.1 The most efficient form of the Nissan Altima delivers up to 27/39 MPG (City/Highway) with a 2.5-liter engine and FWD.2
What is the main difference between the Nissan Sentra vs. Altima?
The Nissan Altima with available AWD is a larger, more powerful sedan than the Nissan Sentra. It also has a higher starting price and higher-end features 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.
Is the Nissan Altima bigger than the Nissan Sentra?
Yes, the Nissan Altima is bigger than the Nissan Sentra. It is 10 inches longer, which impacts the interior. While both sedans offer drivers a roomy 43.8 inches of legroom, second-row occupants will have more room to stretch out in the Nissan Altima. It also contains an extra 1.1 cubic feet of cargo space in its truck.
Which sedan has better safety features between the Nissan Altima and Sentra?
Both the 2025 Nissan Altima and 2025 Nissan Sentra come standard with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite. This collection of advanced driver assistance features includes:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
- High Beam Assist
- Lane Departure Warning
- Blind Spot Warning
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Rear Automatic Braking
Therefore, you can feel confident behind the wheel of the Nissan Sentra or Nissan Altima, though the Altima has enviable available features.
12025 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 30 City MPG / 40 Highway MPG / 34 Combined MPG for Nissan Sentra S, SV with FWD. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
22025 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 27 City MPG / 39 Highway MPG / 32 Combined MPG for Nissan Altima S, SV with FWD. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
3Warranties listed on this webpage 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.
4EPA estimated range is 23 MPG city/31 MPG highway/26 MPG combined (Volvo S90 B6 AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov/.
52025 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 25 City MPG / 34 Highway MPG / 28 Combined MPG for Nissan Altima SV AWD. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
6The complimentary maintenance services listed on this web page are for informational purposes and shall not be solely relied upon. These services may have specific conditions, limitations, and exclusions, and not all vehicles may qualify for complimentary maintenance. For detailed coverage specifics, including what is included in the complimentary maintenance and any potential costs, please contact our dealership.