Nissan Altima vs Nissan Sentra: Specs, Performance & Comparison

Starting with size and powertrains, the Altima is the larger car. That means more interior space, especially in the back seat and trunk, and a slightly more grown‑up feel on the road. Under the hood, most Altima trims come with a 2.5‑liter 4‑cylinder engine that produces more horsepower and torque than the Sentra’s standard setup. Nissan has also offered a turbocharged option in the Altima lineup — a peppier engine that gives the car some extra zip if you want quicker acceleration. In contrast, the Sentra typically relies on a smaller 2.0‑liter 4‑cylinder engine tuned for smooth, efficient daily driving. That means less horsepower compared with the Altima, but better fuel economy and a lighter footprint through city traffic.

Looking at the transmission and drivetrain specs, both models generally come with continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), which help maximize fuel efficiency and keep the ride smooth. Neither is aimed at hardcore performance, but the Altima’s more powerful engine options give it an edge on highways and when merging or passing. Fuel economy still stays respectable on both — the Sentra often has a slight edge thanks to its smaller engine and lighter weight, making it a great choice if budget‑friendly commuting is a priority.

When it comes to dimensions and interior space, the difference between the two is noticeable. The Altima’s length and wheelbase give it a more comfortable back seat and a larger trunk. Taller passengers tend to appreciate the extra rear legroom, and drivers often comment on the more planted feel at highway speeds. The Sentra, while smaller, makes that space count — its cabin is cleverly packaged so passengers don’t feel cramped, and the trunk is still generous for its class. But if you regularly cart around adults or gear for weekend trips, the Altima’s specs clearly favor space and comfort.

Technology and safety specs on both models are competitive in the compact and midsize sedan segments. Nissan often equips both the Altima and Sentra with up‑to‑date infotainment systems — including touchscreen displays, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and available navigation — along with advanced driver‑assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, lane‑keeping assist, and blind‑spot monitoring. The higher the trim on either vehicle, the more tech features you can expect bundled in.

So, Nissan Sentra vs Nissan Altima specs boils down to this: the Sentra is a nimble, efficient choice that’s ideal for everyday commuting and lower ownership costs, while the Altima offers more power, space, and a more composed driving experience. The short version — Altima vs Sentra — is really a choice of size and performance tier rather than a clash of wildly different platforms. Both are solid Nissan sedans; you just pick the one that fits your priorities: economy and ease (Sentra) or space and spirited highway performance (Altima).