Nissan Altima - Top alternatives

The sedan segment in the Middle Eastern market is quite popular, be it luxury or pocket-friendly. The Nissan Altima is one such sedan that falls perfectly as a balance between comfort and power. It is presently in its sixth generation and has come strong as a competitor, thanks to the sharp exterior styling and powerful engine.

The Nissan Altima can be had in either of the six trim levels - 2.5 S, 2.5 Sport, 2.5 SV, 2.5 SL, 2.0T SV, 2.0T SL. Also, there are two different engine options that can be had with the sedan, a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre and a 2.0-litre turbocharged. The 2.5-litre, in-line 4-cylinder, the naturally-aspirated engine is capable of churning out a maximum power of 188 hp and a peak torque of 244 Nm. Alternatively, the buyers can also opt for a turbocharged 2.0-litre, in-line 4-cylinder mill that can produce 248 hp, along with a peak torque of 270 Nm. As for the transmission, there is a CVT gearbox transferring power to the wheels. 

The Nissan Altima looks sharp from all ends. The base model runs on 16-inch steel wheels, which the higher grades go up to 17-inch and 19-inch alloy wheels. LED headlamps are given on the higher trims, while the base model gets a halogen unit. Inside the cabin, the top-of-the-line model gets a 9-speaker system from Bose. The comfort is taken care of by a dual-zone automatic climate control on the top model while the base model gets a manual AC setup.

The Nissan Altima price starts at AED 94,900 for the base 2.5 S variant. However, the top of the line model, with a turbocharged engine, goes up to AED 128,000.

Are there any alternatives for the Hyundai Altima in the UAE market?

The Hyundai Altima belongs to a mid-spec sedan segment. However, it isn’t alone in the segment and faces strong competition from the likes of the Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry. If you are intrigued to know which one is the best in the lot, read on further.

Chevrolet Malibu

The Chevrolet Malibu is into its 2020 iteration and looks no different than the Nissan Altima in terms of aesthetics. It is sharply styled and has a pleasing silhouette. It is available in two engine trims - 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre. The bigger engine makes more power than the one in the Altima.

However, despite being more powerful, the base variant of the Malibu costs AED 15,000 less than the Altima. However, the range-topping model gets pricier than arch-rival.

Honda Accord

The Honda Accord belongs to the same price bracket as the Nissan Altima. However, it excels in a lot of aspects and eventually becomes the one to choose. For example, the cabin feels roomier and more comfortable, unlike the manual AC base model of the Nissan sedan.

Mechanically, the Honda Accord is offered in 1.5-litre engine that produces 192 hp and 260 Nm of torque. The bigger 2.0-litre engine manages 252 hp and 370 Nm. Hence, it is very clear that mechanically, the Accord is the model to choose.

Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry holds the wow factor within itself. It has the silhouette of a premium luxury car but is slightly more affordable than the Nissan Altima, except the hybrid model. However, feature-wise, it isn’t very impressive and lags behind in certain aspects, like smaller wheels and manual AC.

On the engine aspect too, the base engine is sedated when compared to the Nissan Altima. The 2.5-litre engine makes 178 hp and 235 Nm. However, the bigger 3.5-litre V6 makes the difference by churning out 298 hp and 363 Nm of torque.

Final words

The Nissan Altima is a pretty decent sedan and deserves all your attention if you have decided to buy it. However, when you compare the alternatives, a couple of similar cars will beg you to change your opinion.

The Honda Accord, for example, is the best option you could choose in the given price range and could give the Nissan Altima a run for its money. And yes, the Chevy Malibu could also be a great option if you are looking for alternatives.

Also read: Toyota Camry-All you need to know