2023 Hyundai Elantra vs 2024 Nissan Altima

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra presented a diverse lineup catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Starting with the affordable base Elantra SE, the model offered upgrades to the SEL or Limited trims, with the latter providing a surprisingly upscale experience for its price. The Elantra Hybrid variants, available in Blue or Limited trims, delivered impressive fuel efficiency, achieving between 50 mpg and 54 mpg in combined driving. For those seeking a more spirited drive, the turbocharged Elantra N Line and the performance-oriented Elantra N, with its 276-horsepower engine, were available. The Elantra's pricing ranged from $21,545 to $33,245, with the Limited test vehicle priced at $27,395. The 2023 model year saw minimal changes, with the SEL Convenience package and N Line model receiving a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation panel and touchscreen infotainment system. The Elantra's exterior design was polarizing, but its interior, featuring Melange with Gray leather seats and upscale fabric, was well-received, despite some hard plastic elements.

The 2024 Nissan Altima, a familiar name since 1993, maintained its sixth-generation design with minor updates. The 2023 model year introduced a new grille, enhancing its imposing look. The Altima was available in four trim levels: S, SV, SR, and SL, with most models featuring front-wheel drive, while the SV, SR, and SL offered all-wheel drive options. The SR trim could be equipped with the advanced VC-Turbo engine. The Altima SL with AWD, tested in Garnet Pearl Metallic paint and 19-inch alloy wheels, exuded a conservative yet appealing style. The interior, though somewhat outdated, offered comfortable seating and practical features like a wireless phone charger. However, the front-passenger seat's limited adjustability and the quality of the leather upholstery in the SL trim were noted drawbacks. Despite some cheap plastic parts, the Altima's steering wheel and shift knob provided a pleasant tactile experience.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Limited's performance specs were modest, featuring a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive, the Elantra Limited's driving dynamics exceeded expectations. While not fast, the Elantra was peppy, and its CVT was considered the best in its class. During testing, the Elantra Limited achieved an average of 33 mpg, close to its EPA rating of 34 mpg. The Elantra N Line, Hybrids, and N models offered an independent multi-link rear suspension for those seeking enhanced handling. The Elantra Limited provided a communicative ride, suitable steering, and a quiet highway experience. It displayed composure on challenging roads, with 17-inch wheels and 225/45 tires contributing to its stability. However, the steering lacked sharpness, and the brakes experienced some heat-induced shuddering.

The 2024 Nissan Altima's performance was adequate, featuring a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. The Altima SR VC-Turbo offered a more exciting option, with a 2.0-liter engine producing 248 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The VC-Turbo engine, however, was not available with AWD. The Altima's AWD system, tested in winter conditions, provided power to the rear wheels when needed, contributing to its fuel efficiency. The Altima achieved an EPA estimated 26 mpg city, 36 highway, and 30 combined with AWD. The Altima's steering was light, but its low center of gravity minimized body roll. The brakes were predictable, and the CVT managed power output effectively, though engine noise was noticeable during acceleration.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a stylish yet practical interior, accommodating a family of four comfortably. The test vehicle featured proximity-sensing keyless entry, a leather-wrapped, six-way power driver's seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats. However, rear-seat occupants faced a reclined seating position, and the Elantra lacked rear air conditioning vents and USB charging ports. The trunk provided 14.2 cubic feet of cargo space, with a hands-free trunk release and 60/40-split folding back seat for added utility.

The 2024 Nissan Altima boasted impressive interior space, with front seats offering more room than some competitors. The rear seat provided 35.2 inches of legroom, surpassing some rivals. The Altima's trunk offered 15.4 cubic feet of space, with a wide opening for easy loading and 60/40-split folding rear seats for increased cargo capacity. The Altima's interior was user-friendly, with well-placed cupholders and cubbies.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra featured 10.25-inch digital instrumentation and infotainment displays, available in the SEL Convenience package and standard in N Line trim. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, connected services, dynamic voice recognition, navigation, and wireless smartphone charging. However, only Bluetooth supported wireless connections. The voice recognition system had mixed results, and the Bose premium audio system was underwhelming. The Elantra also offered Digital Key technology and Leading Vehicle Departure Alert.

The 2024 Nissan Altima came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 12.3-inch display available on SL and SR VC-Turbo trims. The larger screen offered crisp graphics and easy navigation. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were standard, with wireless versions available on the largest screen. The nine-speaker Bose stereo was underwhelming, and NissanConnect telematics features were standard on SL and SR VC-Turbo trims, offering remote access and vehicle health reports.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra excelled in safety, with a comprehensive package of standard features, including automatic high-beam headlights, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and more. The Elantra Limited added cyclist detection, intersection turning assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Elantra received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS for 2022.

The 2024 Nissan Altima earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with strong side-impact and rollover crash test results. However, it scored four stars in frontal crash tests and did not receive a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS due to poor side-impact test performance. The Altima featured Nissan Safety Shield 360, with forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear automatic braking, and more. ProPilot Assist was available on SV trims and standard on SL and SR VC-Turbo models.