2026 Honda Civic LX vs 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S
$2,305 less and 5 mpg better vs 38 more hp and 47 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,305 price gap, 150 vs 188 hp, 36 vs 31 MPG.
The Civic LX leads on $2,305 less, 5 MPG better. The Altima 2.5 S leads on 38 more hp, 47 more lb-ft torque. 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 | 2026 Honda Civic LX | 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $24,695 | $27,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 188 hp |
| Torque | 133 lb-ft | 180 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 32 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 41 | 38 |
| Combined MPG | 36 | 31 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 16.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,400/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,875 lbs | 3,253 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 107.7" | 111.2" |
| Length | 184.8" | 192.9" |
| Width | 70.9" | 72.9" |
| Height | 55.7" | 56.7" |
| 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 2026 Honda Civic LX and 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2026 Honda Civic LX starts at $24,695, $2,305 less than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S at $27,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $40/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda Civic LX?
The 2026 Honda Civic LX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,305 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda Civic LX covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $188/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is the stronger pick when the extra 38 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda Civic LX or 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2026 Honda Civic LX rates 36 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda Civic LX or 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S produces 188 hp, 38 more than the 2026 Honda Civic LX at 150 hp. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S also leads in torque at 180 lb-ft vs 133 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda Civic LX runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Honda Civic LX bigger than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is 8.1″ longer at 192.9″ vs 184.8″. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S has a 3.5″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
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
- 2026 Honda Civic LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 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 2026 Honda Civic LX starts at $24,695; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S at $27,000. The $2,305 gap is about $40/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Civic vs Altima
The 2026 Honda Civic LX runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S has 38 more hp (188 vs 150), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S adds 47 more lb-ft of torque (180 vs 133), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use FWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Honda Civic LX saves roughly $188/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $940. The 2026 Honda Civic LX wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S weighs 378 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 2026 Honda Civic LX when you want to keep $2,305 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda Civic LX covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S when the extra 38 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $40/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.