2025 Toyota GR86 Base vs 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a sports car or a midsize sedan. Key numbers: 228 vs 188 hp, 24 vs 31 MPG.
The GR86 Base leads on 40 more hp. The Altima 2.5 S leads on $4,500 less, 7 MPG better. 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 | 2025 Toyota GR86 Base | 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,500 | $27,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L flat 4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 228 hp | 188 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 180 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | RWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 38 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 31 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 16.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,400/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,851 lbs | 3,253 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 101.4" | 111.2" |
| Length | 167.9" | 192.9" |
| Width | 69.9" | 72.9" |
| Height | 51.6" | 56.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base and 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S starts at $27,000, $4,500 less than the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base at $31,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $80/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base?
The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base is the stronger pick when you want the 40 hp advantage on backroads and highway on-ramps; your priority is driving engagement; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,500 in your pocket and the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $395/year less on fuel; your priority is a comfortable daily commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base or 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S rates 31 combined MPG, 7 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base or 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base produces 228 hp, 40 more than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S at 188 hp. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base also leads in torque at 184 lb-ft vs 180 lb-ft. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base runs a 2.4L flat 4; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: RWD on the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base, FWD on the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S.
Is the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base bigger than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is 25.0″ longer at 192.9″ vs 167.9″. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S has a 9.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (sports car vs midsize sedan), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Do the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base and 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base uses RWD and the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S uses FWD. The drivetrain affects traction, fuel economy, and how the vehicle handles in different conditions.
Can I cross-shop a sports car against a midsize sedan?
Yes, and many buyers do. A sports car and a midsize sedan solve different problems, so the comparison is less about specs and more about lifestyle. Think about what you need most: fuel efficiency and a smooth commute. The spec table above helps you compare the numbers, but a test drive is where you will feel the difference in daily use.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota GR86 trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Altima trims
- 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The GR86–Altima Decision
Comparing a sports car to a midsize sedan means asking what you actually need from your next vehicle. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base ($31,500) and 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S ($27,000) answer that question differently. The $-4,500 gap adds up to $80/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base runs a 2.4L flat 4; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base has 40 more hp (228 vs 188), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Drivetrains differ: RWD on the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base, FWD on the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S saves roughly $395/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,975.
Living With the GR86 vs the Altima
The 2025 Toyota GR86 Base is tuned for driving engagement over practicality. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is optimized for a comfortable daily commute and a low center of gravity. These are fundamentally different vehicles, so the comparison comes down to what job you need done, not which one is objectively better. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is 25.0″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S has a 9.8″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S weighs 402 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Toyota GR86 Base when you want the 40 hp advantage on backroads and highway on-ramps. Choose the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S when you want to keep $4,500 in your pocket and the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 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 Toyota or Nissan or any dealership.