2024 Honda Civic EX vs 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV
$2,130 less and 8 mpg better vs 8.9″ longer and AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,130 price gap, 180 vs 182 hp, 36 vs 28 MPG.
The Civic EX leads on $2,130 less, 8 MPG better. The Altima 2.5 SV leads on 8.9″ longer, AWD. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2024 Honda Civic EX | 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,950 | $29,080 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 177 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 33 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 42 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 36 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 16.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,550/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,004 lbs | 3,401 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.7" | 111.2" |
| Length | 184.0" | 192.9" |
| Width | 70.9" | 72.9" |
| Height | 55.7" | 57.3" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2024 Honda Civic EX and 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV?
The 2024 Honda Civic EX starts at $26,950, $2,130 less than the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV at $29,080. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $37/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2024 Honda Civic EX?
The 2024 Honda Civic EX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,130 in your pocket and the 2024 Honda Civic EX covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $333/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV?
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2024 Honda Civic EX or 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV?
The 2024 Honda Civic EX rates 36 combined MPG, 8 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2024 Honda Civic EX or 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV?
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV produces 182 hp, 2 more than the 2024 Honda Civic EX at 180 hp. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV also leads in torque at 178 lb-ft vs 177 lb-ft. The 2024 Honda Civic EX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2024 Honda Civic EX, AWD on the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV.
Is the 2024 Honda Civic EX bigger than the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV?
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV is 8.9″ longer at 192.9″ vs 184.0″. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV has a 3.5″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2024 Honda Civic EX and 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV comes with AWD, while the 2024 Honda Civic EX uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda Civic trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Altima trims
- 2024 Honda Civic EX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Civic and Altima Stack Up
Two compact cars, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2024 Honda Civic EX starts at $26,950; the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV at $29,080. The $2,130 gap is about $37/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Civic vs Altima
The 2024 Honda Civic EX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV uses a 2.5L I4. The 2 hp difference (182 vs 180) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV comes with AWD; the 2024 Honda Civic EX uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2024 Honda Civic EX saves roughly $333/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,665. The 2024 Honda Civic EX wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV weighs 397 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2024 Honda Civic EX when you want to keep $2,130 in your pocket and the 2024 Honda Civic EX covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SV when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. At $37/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Nissan or any dealership.