For over two decades, the question that comes up most at Nissan dealerships has been: "Should I buy a Nissan Altima or Nissan Maxima?"


To help buyers answer this question, we've broken down some of the key differences between the two that might concern most buyers looking for a comparison!


Size


Despite the fact that the 2017 Maxima is the top-tier Nissan sedan, its exterior dimensions are a very close match with the 2017 Altima. The Maxima is one inch longer, one inch wider, and yet one inch shorter than the Altima. In pictures, the Maxima looks like a much larger vehicle due to its sleeker styling, but the Altima actually features more interior space thanks to its conservative exterior styling.


  • 2017 Altima Dimensions: 192″ L x 72″ W x 58″ H

  • 2017 Maxima Dimensions: 193″ L x 73″ W x 57″ H


Performance


The 2017 Nissan Altima offers buyers two engine options: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 179 horsepower, and a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower. The Maxima, on the other hand, is limited to just one engine: a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 300 horsepower.


Given the Maxima's horsepower advantage, it should come as no surprise that it beats the Altima in 0-60 mph tests. According to Zero to 60 Times, the 2016 Altima 3.5 SR had a 0-60 time of 5.9 seconds***, and the 2016 Maxima Platinum had a 5.7-second 0-60 time***.


Tests for the 2017 models have yet to be released.


Fuel Economy


Using EPA data from FuelEconomy.gov, the 2017 Altima is the clear winner in fuel economy between the two. The Maxima is the heavier of the two sedans, and with more power comes sacrifices in fuel economy.


  • 2017 Nissan Altima (2.5 I4 with Automatic): 31 combined mpg / 27 city mpg / 39 highway mpg*

  • 2017 Nissan Altima (3.5 V6 with Automatic): 26 combined mpg / 22 city mpg / 32 highway mpg*

  • 2017 Nissan Maxima (3.5 V6 with Automatic): 25 combined mpg / 21 city mpg / 30 highway mpg*


Pricing


The 2017 Altima is the more affordable of the two vehicles, starting at $22,500** for the 2.5 base model. The 2017 Maxima's base price for the entry-level S trim is $32,610**. The Altima comes with less standard features in its base model than the Maxima S, and it also features the 4-cylinder engine vs. the V6 on the Maxima.


Even at the highest-end trim levels, though, the Maxima Platinum ($40,040 MSRP**) still costs over $7,000 more than the Altima 3.5 SL ($32,690 MSRP**).


Buyers will want to thoroughly vet both vehicles before making a decision, but there's a clear choice: budget vs. luxury. The Altima is much more conservatively styled, gets better gas mileage, and starts at a much more affordable price point. The Maxima goes out of its way to be stylish, has only one higher-performance engine option, and offers more upgradeable options than the Altima.



*Pricing Disclaimer: All prices are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). MSRP excludes destination and handling charges, tax, title, license, and options. Dealer sets actual price.


**Fuel Economy Disclaimer: Fuel economy based on targeted 2017 EPA fuel economy estimates.


***0-60 MPH Disclaimer: Based on independent tests not associated with Nissan Motor Company Ltd.