Although Americans have been gravitating toward SUVs in recent years, mid-size sedans still present a viable means of transportation. For example, the Honda Accord has been around for over 40 years and continues to soldier on as a perennial favorite. Toyota has the ever-popular Camry, but what about Nissan? Which Nissan model is equivalent to the Honda Accord?

Nissan’s mid-size sedan has a lot to offer

For the unfamiliar, Nissan’s main mid-size sedan offering is the Altima, which has been in the market since 1993. And while it’s not as well-rounded as the Honda Accord, the Altima still brings a lot to the segment. According to Car and Driver, the 2022 Altima is “notable for its attractive styling, comfortable cabin, and surprising athleticism.” The Altima is easy to shop for as well since there are only six different trim levels to choose from – S, SV, SR, SL, SR VC Turbo, and Platinum.

There are also two different engines to choose from; a naturally aspirated, 188-hp 2.5-liter engine and a more potent turbocharged 2.0-liter engine found in the SR VC Turbo trim level. That engine produces a whopping 248 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque and, interestingly can change its compression ratio when needed. This allows the engine to prioritize power when you need it and fuel economy when cruising. Both engines are connected to a continuously variable automatic transmission and push the power out to the front wheels.

On that note, one notable feature that the Altima offers that the Honda Accord doesn’t is the availability of an all-wheel drivetrain. However, that configuration can only be included when the base naturally aspirated engine is chosen. It’s still a desirable feature nonetheless, especially for buyers that live in snow states.

Is the Nissan Altima a top contender in the segment?

Not really. Although it’s been around for decades, the Nissan Altima has always been in the middle of the pack when it comes to brand recognition and popularity. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Altima is more affordable than the Honda Accord, but when resale values are factored in, it starts to lose its luster. Also, some tech features like Apple Carplay and Android Auto are not standard on the base trim level, unlike other competitors in the category.

In terms of driving, KBB mentions that the Altima offers a comfortable and stable ride. However, that CVT transmission does bog down the performance a bit. “It’s loud and sluggish. And what you gain in the fuel efficiency you lose in the ‘happy, fun, performance’ driving department,” said Lyn Woodward from KBB. Otherwise, the Altima offers a good amount of room for all five passengers as it has about an inch more shoulder and legroom than the Accord in both rows of seating.

How much does the Nissan Altima cost?

The base Nissan Altima S has a starting price of $24,550, which can top out at $34,250 for the top-trim Platinum. Those seeking more power can opt for the SR VC-Turbo trim for $30,900. By comparison, the 2022 Honda Accord starts at $25,470 for the base LX model and tops out at $37,400 for the top-trim Touring.

That’s about $3,000 more than the Altima, so depending on the type of features you’re looking for, the Altima could prove to be a better value all around. Overall, the Nissan Altima is a solid choice for anyone in need of a mid-size, despite the fact that some may not consider it on a level playing field as the venerable Honda Accord.