2020 Nissan Altima vs Toyota Camry

Available in seven editions, the 2020 Nissan Altima offers industry-leading technologies. Featuring a lineup of more than 10 trims, the 2020 Toyota Camry also boasts cutting-edge technologies. Both midsize sedans offer patented all-wheel drive systems that deliver class-leading performance.

From automatic braking with warning systems to sophisticated cruise control systems, these five-seat cars have an array of innovative active safety technologies. The ProPILOT ASSIST is one of the most sophisticated driving aides that's optional in the Altima. A handful of accident-prevention features from the Toyota Safety Sense P group are installed in the Camry. Furnished with 10 air bags, this Toyota model also offers class-leading passive safety.

The infotainment systems in both sedans come with 8-inch touch screens. Both models offer seamless smartphone connections via Amazon Alexa, Apple CarPlay and other portals. Available with Wi-Fi and other exclusive services, the Camry has a slight edge in terms of mobile connectivity.

The Powertrain

The 2020 Altima gets up to 188 net horsepower from a 2.5 L I-4 engine block. Burning fuel with assistance from the Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) function, this naturally aspirated powertrain dishes out 180 pound-feet of torque at 6,000 RPM. All combustion cycles are controlled by the Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System.

This midsize Nissan sedan also flaunts a 2.0 L engine with the Variable Compression Turbo nameplate. When revolving at 5,600 RPM, the VC-Turbo powertrain unleashes up to 248 hp. This class-exclusive engine cranks out 273 lb-ft of peak torque at 4,000 RPM. Additionally, the CVVTS manages various mechanisms in this patented propulsion unit. Gasoline enters the combustion chambers through a multi-point fuel injection system with an electronic sequential design.

Displaying the Dynamic Force badge, the 2020 Toyota Camry's 2.5 L engine yields up to 206 at 6,600 RPM. Using the D4S Dual Injection technology, this I-4 powertrain delivers 186 lb-ft of peak torque at 5,000 RPM. The valvetrain comes with the VVT-i technology for good efficiency at various tachometer readings.

Rated at 301 hp at tachometer levels of at least 6,600 RPM, a 3.5 L V6 engine is optional for the 2020 Camry. This six-cylinder powertrain earns a peak torque rating of 267 lb-ft at 4,700 RPM.

The Camry's hybrid powertrain includes an electric motor that produces 88 kW, which is equivalent to 118 hp. This powerful motor also generates 149 lb-ft of peak torque. The maximum output of the motor is approximately 650 volts. A sealed lithium-ion battery with a traction-type design is another vital component of the hybrid system. This durable battery generates up to 259 peak volts.

Most of the 2020 Altima trims are driven by a front-wheel drive system. However, some models can be equipped with the Intelligent AWD for a road-gripping drive. The 2020 Camry offers an AWD system with the Dynamic Torque-Control technology, which is an all-new mechanical option. This Toyota sedan runs on eight gear speeds that are created by the Direct Shift automatic transmission system. The hybrid models run on the ECVT, which offers the Sequential Shift Mode.

Entering another generation, the Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission System is a perfect fit for the Altima. Creating a wide range of gear ratios, the proprietary CVT offers sporty handling without sacrificing efficiency. The Manual Shift Mode for this innovative gearbox can be activated by paddle shifters, which are conveniently mounted on the ergonomic steering wheel.

The 2020 Altima offers a maximum fuel economy of 39 MPG on the highway and 28 MPG in the city. Such impressive EPA ratings are achieved by the base trim, which runs on the 2.5 L engine block. Since it's much more powerful, the VC-Turbo engine earns lower gas mileage ratings on the highway and in cities.

The best fuel economy ratings for the 2020 Camry are 41 MPG on the highway and 29 MPG in the city. The gas mileage ratings are lower for models that run on an AWD and the V6 engine. When equipped with a hybrid powertrain, this midsize Toyota sedan offers 53 MPG on the highway and 51 MPG for urban travel.

Designed to maximize fuel economy, the Eco Mode controls the Camry's Dynamic Force engine. The driver may also select the Sport Mode or Normal Mode for the signature powertrain. This efficient I-4 engine also earns the Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle label. Additionally, the V6 engine in this Toyota model has the Ultra Low Emission Vehicle II rating.

When navigating rough roads, the 2020 Altima won't shake and bounce around thanks to the Active Ride Control. Delivering individual braking power to every wheel, the Intelligent Trace Control helps with cornering. This midsize Nissan sedan also has the Hill Start Assist, which gives the driver enough time to switch from a parking setting to a driving ratio in the CVT gearbox.

As the name suggests, the Active Cornering Assist helps the 2020 Camry navigate bends and sharp turns on the road. This all-new technology is particularly helpful on highway ramps that have short loops and other circular junctions. Select models are fitted with 12.9-inch front disc brakes that have two-piston calipers with bright red paint. Measuring slightly more than 11 inches in diameter, the rear disc brakes are controlled by hydraulic boosters. This Toyota sedan also gets leverage from the Electronically Controlled Braking technology.

The Altima comes standard with ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes. This model decelerates in a predictable way thanks to the electronic brake force distribution. With leverage from the Brake Assist, the driver can quickly slow down on the road. Both midsize sedans receive emergency braking assistance from a conventional ABS.

Valid for up to five years or 60,000 miles, a powertrain warranty is included with the purchase or lease of the 2020 Altima. A basic warranty with a three-year/36,000-mile limit also protects this model. The 2020 Camry matches the Altima's powertrain and basic warranties in terms of mileage and time restrictions. The hybrid Toyota models come with a 10-year/150,000-mile warranty on the lithium-ion battery pack. Additionally, the entire hybrid powertrain is covered by a warranty that lasts for eight years or 120,000 miles.

Drivability

Powered by electricity, a dual-pinion steering system makes it easy to handle the 2020 Altima. A sport-tuned suspension system is also available for this midsize sedan. The struts in the front suspension system have a twin-tube design for maximum absorption of shocks. The vehicle's rear suspension system is configured into a multi-link setup.

An electric power steering system with a rack-and-pinion configuration is standard in the 2020 Camry. Select models can be enhanced with sport-tuned shock absorbers that take harsh beatings at fast speeds. The sporty TRD model is fitted with track-tuned coil springs in the front and rear suspension. This high-performance model also has strut-tower bracing for enhanced stability in the front suspension.

For its midsize platform, the Altima has a respectable cargo capacity of 15.4 cubic feet inside the trunk. This premium sedan has a passenger volume of 100.8 cubic feet without a moonroof. Up to 43.8 inches of legroom is available in the front row. The rear passengers have up to 35.2 feet of inches to stretch their legs. When measured without a moonroof, the headroom in the front row is 39.2 inches.

The Camry has a trunk that stores up to 15.1 cubic feet of cargo. Some models have a trunk that only holds a maximum of 14.1 cubic feet. This Toyota sedan offers a passenger volume of slightly more than 100 cubic feet without a moonroof. The driver has just more than 42 inches of legroom and over 38 inches of headroom. Additionally, this midsize car offers approximately 58 inches of shoulder room in the front row.

When it comes to interior comfort, the Altima is equipped with a standard driver's seat that moves into eight custom positions. The front passenger's seat in this Nissan model has a four-way design. Cloth and leather trims are available for all five seats in this vehicle. A heated steering wheel and heated front seats are also designed for drivers who frequently take trips in the winter season. A dual-zone climate control unit and rear air vents is another amenity that optimizes comfort for all occupants.

Similarly, the 2020 Camry offers an HVAC system with two zones and rear air vents. The hybrid trims are equipped with an electric compressor that's more efficient than ever before. A humidity sensor is integrated into the automatic climate control system of this Toyota sedan. Upholstery options for the seats include leather and the patented SoftTex material. Featuring an eight-way design, ventilated and heated front seats provide optimum comfort.

This midsize Toyota sedan has several technologies that significantly improve the driver's attention on the road. For instance, the Multi-Information Display includes a 7-inch TFT screen in the instrument panel. The MID provides feedback on the hybrid system and other important electronic or mechanical parts. Occupying up to 10.0 inches on the windshield, a head-up display also projects key data in front of the driver. For instance, the advanced HUD issues warnings from the Toyota Safety Sense P technology.

Having a dominant presence in the 2020 Altima's instrument cluster, the Advanced Drive-Assist Display keeps the driver updated on a handful of systems. This 7-inch display shows the gauge pressure in all four tires on this midsize Nissan sedan. Turn-by-turn directions and other data from synced smartphones also appear on the signature display.

Safety

The Automatic Emergency Braking might help the 2020 Altima's driver avoid a severe accident. With supplemental cues from the Pedestrian Detection, the person behind the steering wheel of this Nissan model will avoid a collision with pedestrians. This midsize sedan also offers the Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, which instantly detects deceleration in other automobiles that are ahead.

Available in some of the Altima trims, the ProPILOT ASSIST reduces the potential for side and forward collisions on the freeway. Sophisticated enough to identify drowsy, careless or fatigued behavior inside the cockpit, the Intelligent Driver Alertness is another all-new driving aide that's optional in this Nissan sedan. Thanks to the Road Sign Recognition, the driver will be aware of speed restrictions and other local traffic regulations.

Installed in the 2020 Camry, the Toyota Safety Sense P matches most of the active safety features that are available in the Altima. For example, the Pre-Collision System automatically engages the brakes when it spots slow-moving vehicles or pedestrians. The TSS-P suite also has the Steering Assist for safe changes in lanes. Fitted with 10 standard air bags, this Toyota sedan has a much better passive safety design than the Nissan rival.

Optional in the Altima, the Rear Automatic Braking provides best-in-class assistance with backing up. Low-speed rear collisions might be avoided when this exclusive technology comes on. Additionally, the driver could look at the Intelligent Around View Monitor while steering the vehicle in reverse. Split views will appear on the 8-inch NissanConnect display when the monitor is turned on.

Which Has the Best Value

The 2020 Nissan Altima S base edition has an MSRP of just more than $24,000. Starting at slightly more than $32,000, the Platinum VC-Turbo carries the highest price label on the lineup. The 2020 Toyota Camry L base trim is priced at about $24,500. Carrying a price tag that exceeds $32,500, the Hybrid XLE is the most expensive Camry option.

In terms of overall performance, the Camry offers better value because of the three powertrain options. This Toyota sedan also delivers best-in-class fuel economy thanks to the hybrid system, which is protected by an extended warranty. Both models have signature all-wheel drive systems with comparable all-weather attributes. However, Nissan's Xtronic CVT is significantly more versatile than Toyota's Direct Shift transmission.

Both sedans offer 8-inch touch screens with highly sensitive interfaces. However, the NissanConnect multimedia system isn't quite on par with Toyota's Dynamic Navigation System. For instance, the Camry boasts the Wi-Fi Connect, Destination Assist and Safety Connect portals. The Altima simply doesn't have such a wide range of services. Nevertheless, both cars support Amazon Alexa, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

In the entertainment category, both vehicles offer nine-speaker sound systems. Made by the iconic Bose company, the Altima's audio system is superior to the Camry's JBL audio system. The Active Noise Cancellation and Speed-Sensitive Volume Control also enhance the quality of acoustics from the Bose speakers. Additionally, the Nissan Voice Recognition technology may be used to control the audio system.

Taking a commute in the Altima has never been easier thanks to the Intelligent Cruise Control. Featuring the all-new Full Speed Range and Hold function, the ICC quickly responds to rapidly changing traffic conditions on the freeway. The Camry's Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with the Full-Speed function is a bit outdated compared to the ICC. Both sedans have systems to warn the driver about potential conflicts in blind spots.

Which is Better?

The 2020 Toyota Camry appeals greatly to drivers who want superb fuel economy and plenty of power. Available with the VC-Turbo engine block, the 2020 Nissan Altima is a great option for drivers who want to get their hands on industry-leading mechanical technology. Both sedans have similar active safety features, but the Altima offers better value through the ProPILOT ASSIST, Reverse Automatic Braking and other exclusive technologies.