2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S vs 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE
41 more hp and 48 more lb-ft torque vs $4,375 less and 4 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 188 vs 147 hp, 31 vs 35 MPG.
The Altima 2.5 S leads on 41 more hp, 48 more lb-ft torque. The Elantra SE leads on $4,375 less, 4 MPG better. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 | 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S | 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,000 | $22,625 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 188 hp | 147 hp |
| Torque | 180 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 31 |
| Highway MPG | 38 | 40 |
| Combined MPG | 31 | 35 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.2 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,400/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,253 lbs | 2,868 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 107.1" |
| Length | 192.9" | 185.4" |
| Width | 72.9" | 71.9" |
| Height | 56.7" | 55.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S and 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE starts at $22,625, $4,375 less than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S at $27,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $77/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is the stronger pick when the extra 41 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,375 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $155/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S or 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE rates 35 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S or 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S produces 188 hp, 41 more than the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE at 147 hp. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S also leads in torque at 180 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE uses a 2.0L I4.
Is the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is 7.5″ longer at 192.9″ vs 185.4″. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S has a 4.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Nissan Altima comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Elantra offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Nissan trims, Nissan Altima trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Elantra trims
How the Altima and Elantra Stack Up
Two midsize sedans, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S starts at $27,000; the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE at $22,625. The $-4,375 gap adds up to $77/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Altima vs Elantra
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE uses a 2.0L I4. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S has 41 more hp (188 vs 147), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S adds 48 more lb-ft of torque (180 vs 132), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use FWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE saves roughly $155/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $775.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S weighs 385 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 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S when the extra 41 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE when you want to keep $4,375 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Elantra SE covers your needs.
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 Nissan or Hyundai or any dealership.