2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR vs 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL
24 more hp and awd vs $830 less and 5 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 182 vs 158 hp, 28 vs 33 MPG.
The Altima 2.5 SR leads on 24 more hp, AWD. The Jetta SEL leads on $830 less, 5 MPG better. The spec table compares 8 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 8 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 SR | 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,330 | $29,500 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 182 hp | 158 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 29 |
| Highway MPG | 34 | 39 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 33 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.0 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | $1,350/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,442 lbs | 3,071 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 105.7" |
| Length | 192.9" | 186.5" |
| Width | 72.9" | 70.8" |
| Height | 57.4" | 57.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 12yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR and 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL starts at $29,500, $830 less than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR at $30,330. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $15/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $830 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $227/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR or 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL rates 33 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR or 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR produces 182 hp, 24 more than the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL at 158 hp. The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL also leads in torque at 184 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR, FWD on the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL.
Is the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR bigger than the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR is 6.4″ longer at 192.9″ vs 186.5″. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR has a 5.5″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR and 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR comes with AWD, while the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL 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?
The Nissan Altima comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Volkswagen Jetta offers 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Nissan trims, Nissan Altima trims, Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Jetta trims
How the Altima and Jetta 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 SR starts at $30,330; the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL at $29,500. The $-830 gap is about $15/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Altima vs Jetta
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR runs a 2.5L I4; the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR has 24 more hp (182 vs 158), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR comes with AWD; the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL saves roughly $227/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,135.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR has a 5.5″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR weighs 371 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 SR when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. Choose the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL when you want to keep $830 in your pocket and the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta SEL 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 Volkswagen or any dealership.