Nissan Altima vs Ford Fusion: Which Sedan Reigns Supreme?
Choosing a new car can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re faced with popular choices like the Nissan Altima and the Ford Fusion. Both sedans have carved out a significant space in the automotive market, offering a blend of practicality, style, and technology. Deciding between them requires a closer look at what each model brings to the table.
The Nissan Altima has long been a favorite, known for its comfortable ride and fuel efficiency. It appeals to a broad audience, from daily commuters to families seeking a reliable vehicle. The Ford Fusion, on the other hand, often stands out with its sleek design and available advanced features. It has a reputation for offering a more engaging driving experience.
This in-depth comparison of the Nissan Altima vs Ford Fusion will cover everything from performance and interior comfort to technology and safety features. We’ll examine the strengths and weaknesses of each car, helping you make an informed decision that perfectly matches your needs and preferences. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which sedan is the better choice for you.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Nissan Altima | Ford Fusion |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.5L I4, 2.0L Turbo I4 | 1.5L Turbo I4, 2.0L Turbo I4, 2.5L I4 Hybrid |
| Horsepower (Base) | 188 hp | 181 hp |
| Transmission | CVT | 8-Speed Automatic |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 28/39 mpg | 23/34 mpg |
| Drivetrain | FWD, AWD | FWD, AWD |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 7-inch or 8-inch | 8-inch |
| Standard Safety Features | Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning | Pre-Collision Assist, Lane-Keeping System |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-link | Independent |
| Cargo Space | 15.4 cubic feet | 16.0 cubic feet |
| Available Driver-Assist Tech | ProPILOT Assist | Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go |
| Warranty (Basic) | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Fuel Efficiency
- Nissan Altima: The Nissan Altima offers competitive fuel economy, often boasting impressive MPG figures, particularly on the highway. It typically features efficient engine options, but some trims may sacrifice fuel economy for performance. Pros include good overall MPG; cons may include slightly lower city MPG compared to some competitors.
- Ford Fusion: The Ford Fusion provides a range of engine choices, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid models, which deliver excellent fuel economy. Gas-powered models offer respectable MPG. Pros include hybrid options; cons may include less efficient base engine compared to some rivals.
- Winner: Fusion
Performance
- Nissan Altima: The Altima offers a range of engine options, with the available VC-Turbo engine providing strong acceleration and performance. The base engine provides adequate power for daily driving. Pros include the VC-Turbo engine option; cons may include less engaging handling in some trims.
- Ford Fusion: The Ford Fusion offers a variety of engine choices, including turbocharged options that provide responsive performance. The base engine is adequate for everyday driving. Pros include available turbocharged engines; cons may include less sporty feel compared to some competitors.
- Winner: Altima
Interior Space & Comfort
- Nissan Altima: The Altima provides a comfortable and spacious interior, with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are generally comfortable. Pros include a roomy cabin; cons may include some hard plastics in the interior.
- Ford Fusion: The Ford Fusion offers a well-designed interior with comfortable seating and adequate space for passengers. The materials quality can vary depending on the trim level. Pros include a comfortable cabin; cons may include slightly less rear legroom compared to the Altima.
- Winner: Altima
Infotainment & Technology
- Nissan Altima: The Altima features a modern infotainment system with a touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and available advanced driver-assistance features. The user interface is generally easy to use. Pros include standard features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; cons may include some older infotainment systems in base models.
- Ford Fusion: The Fusion offers a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and available advanced driver-assistance features. The system’s usability is generally good. Pros include intuitive controls; cons may include a less advanced infotainment system compared to some rivals.
- Winner: Tie
Safety Features
- Nissan Altima: The Altima comes equipped with a suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Higher trims offer advanced safety technologies. Pros include a good set of standard safety features; cons may include optional advanced safety features that add to the price.
- Ford Fusion: The Fusion offers a range of standard and available safety features, including automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Safety ratings are generally good. Pros include comprehensive safety features; cons may include some advanced safety features that are optional.
- Winner: Tie
Reliability
- Nissan Altima: The Nissan Altima generally has a reputation for decent reliability. However, it can sometimes be inconsistent depending on the year and trim. Pros include generally reliable; cons may include potential for some maintenance issues.
- Ford Fusion: The Ford Fusion’s reliability is generally considered average. However, it is important to consider specific model years. Pros include decent reliability; cons may include potential for some mechanical issues.
- Winner: Tie
Price & Value
- Nissan Altima: The Altima is competitively priced within its segment, offering a good value proposition. The base models are attractively priced. Pros include competitive pricing; cons may include higher trim levels that can be expensive.
- Ford Fusion: The Ford Fusion offers a competitive price point. It often provides good value, especially in lower trims. Pros include good value for the money; cons may include higher trims that can be pricey.
- Winner: Tie
Driving Experience
- Nissan Altima: The Altima offers a comfortable and composed ride, with a focus on ease of use. The steering is generally light and easy to manage. Pros include comfortable ride; cons may include a less sporty feel.
- Ford Fusion: The Fusion provides a balanced driving experience, with a comfortable ride and responsive handling. The steering is often well-weighted. Pros include balanced handling; cons may include a less engaging drive compared to some rivals.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Fuel Efficiency | Nissan Altima |
| Cargo Space | Ford Fusion |
| Engine Options | Ford Fusion |
| Driver-Assist Tech (Overall) | Tie |
| Ride Comfort | Nissan Altima |
What They Have in Common:
- Seating Capacity: Both the Nissan Altima and Ford Fusion comfortably seat five passengers, making them suitable for families or groups of friends.
- Drivetrain Options: Both cars offer both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, providing options for different driving conditions and preferences.
- Standard Safety Features: Both vehicles include a suite of standard safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, to help protect occupants.
- Warranty Coverage: Both the Altima and Fusion come with a standard 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty, offering similar levels of manufacturer protection.
- Infotainment System: Both cars offer modern infotainment systems, including touchscreen displays and smartphone integration, providing a connected driving experience.
Nissan Altima Vs Ford Fusion Buying Guide
Performance and Handling
The Nissan Altima and Ford Fusion both offer a comfortable ride, but their performance characteristics differ. The Altima typically boasts a more responsive engine with available turbocharged options, providing quicker acceleration. Its handling is generally considered more agile, particularly in sportier trims. The Fusion, while not as overtly sporty, often delivers a composed and refined driving experience. Its steering feel tends to be lighter, making it easy to maneuver in city environments. Choosing between the two often comes down to personal preference for driving dynamics and power delivery. Consider your daily driving needs and desired level of engagement behind the wheel.
Interior Comfort and Features
Both sedans prioritize passenger comfort, featuring spacious cabins and well-appointed interiors. The Altima often presents a more modern and minimalist interior design, with a focus on user-friendly technology. It may offer features like Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist for advanced driver assistance. The Fusion frequently impresses with its upscale materials and refined design, providing a premium feel. It may incorporate features like Ford’s SYNC infotainment system and a wide array of safety technologies. Evaluate the specific features and design aesthetics to determine which best suits your needs and preferences. Consider the quality of materials and the overall layout.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
Fuel economy is a crucial factor for many buyers. Both the Nissan Altima and Ford Fusion offer competitive fuel efficiency ratings, but the exact figures can vary depending on the engine and trim level. The Altima often excels in this area, particularly with its base engine configurations. The Fusion also delivers respectable fuel economy, especially with its hybrid or plug-in hybrid options. Beyond fuel consumption, consider other running costs, such as maintenance and insurance premiums. Research the reliability ratings of each vehicle to get a comprehensive view of long-term ownership costs. Compare the expected costs for routine maintenance.
Technology and Infotainment
Modern vehicles are packed with technology, and the Altima and Fusion are no exception. The Altima generally offers a user-friendly infotainment system with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. It also often includes advanced driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. The Fusion typically features Ford’s SYNC infotainment system, offering similar connectivity options and driver-assist technologies. Evaluate the user interface, screen size, and overall functionality of each system. Consider features like smartphone integration, navigation, and the availability of advanced safety features to make an informed decision. Look for ease of use.
Safety Features and Ratings
Safety is a paramount consideration when choosing a vehicle. Both the Nissan Altima and Ford Fusion have earned good safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA. They are equipped with a range of standard and available safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. The Altima often incorporates Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite, providing a comprehensive set of driver-assistance features. The Fusion also offers a robust suite of safety technologies, including automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Research the specific safety ratings and features of each vehicle to ensure it meets your safety needs and expectations. Review the crash test scores.
Resale Value and Reliability
The long-term value of a vehicle is an important factor to consider. Both the Nissan Altima and Ford Fusion generally hold their value well, but their resale values can vary depending on factors like condition, mileage, and trim level. Research the reliability ratings of each vehicle to get a sense of its long-term durability. Consider the history of each model and any known issues that may affect resale value. Assess the availability of parts and the cost of maintenance to determine the total cost of ownership. Check the market for used models to get an idea of the current values.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Nissan Altima If…
- You prioritize fuel efficiency, especially on the highway.
- You value the advanced driver-assistance features offered by ProPILOT Assist.
- You prefer a comfortable and spacious interior.
- You want a car with a smooth CVT transmission.
Buy Ford Fusion If…
- You are looking for a wider range of engine options, including a hybrid.
- You prefer a more engaging driving experience.
- You need slightly more cargo space.
- You appreciate the available technology features like adaptive cruise control.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences in engine options?
The Nissan Altima often provides a choice between a base engine and a more powerful turbocharged option, offering a blend of fuel efficiency and performance. The Ford Fusion may offer a wider range of engines, including turbocharged options, a hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid. Each vehicle offers different engine options based on trim. Evaluate the engine options available based on your driving needs.
Which car offers a more comfortable ride?
Both cars offer comfortable rides, but the Altima often prioritizes a more sporty driving experience, while the Fusion tends to focus on a more refined and composed ride. The Fusion’s suspension is often tuned for a smoother ride, making it suitable for long commutes. Comfort is subjective; test drive both to determine your preference.
How do the infotainment systems compare?
Both cars feature user-friendly infotainment systems with touchscreen displays and smartphone integration. The Altima typically offers Nissan’s infotainment system, while the Fusion uses Ford’s SYNC system. Both offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Compare the user interfaces, features, and ease of use to determine your preference. Check system response.
What about safety features and ratings?
Both cars have strong safety records, with a range of standard and available safety features. The Altima often includes Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite. The Fusion offers a similar array of safety technologies. Review safety ratings from reputable organizations and compare the available safety features of each vehicle. Look for advanced driver assistance systems.
Which car is better on fuel economy?
Fuel economy varies depending on the engine and trim level. The Altima generally offers competitive fuel efficiency, particularly with its base engine. The Fusion also delivers good fuel economy, especially with its hybrid options. Compare the EPA fuel economy ratings for the specific models you are considering. Consider hybrid options.
How do the interiors differ in terms of space?
Both the Altima and Fusion offer spacious cabins for passengers and cargo. The Altima provides a modern and minimalist interior design. The Fusion often impresses with its upscale materials and refined design. Consider the space needs for your passengers and cargo. Compare the dimensions.
What about resale value and reliability?
Both vehicles generally hold their value well. Research the reliability ratings of each vehicle to get a sense of its long-term durability. Consider the history of each model and any known issues that may affect resale value. Check the market for used models to get an idea of the current values.
Final Verdict
The Nissan Altima and Ford Fusion are both strong contenders in the midsize sedan segment, each appealing to different driving preferences. The Altima often stands out with its more responsive engine options and agile handling. The Fusion often offers a more refined interior and a comfortable ride. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities, such as desired performance, interior comfort, and fuel efficiency.
Winner: Tie