2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR vs 2026 Nissan Sentra SR
On paper, the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR wins on 33 more hp, 32 more lb-ft torque, 9.6″ longer. The 2026 Nissan Sentra SR has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 182 vs 149 hp.
The Altima 2.5 SR leads on 33 more hp, 32 more lb-ft torque. The Sentra SR leads on $5,480 less. 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 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR | 2026 Nissan Sentra SR |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,480 | $25,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 182 hp | 149 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 146 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | No published data |
| Highway MPG | 33 | No published data |
| Combined MPG | 28 | No published data |
| Fuel Tank | 16.0 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,550/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,442 lbs | 3,153 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 111.2" | 106.5" |
| Length | 192.9" | 183.3" |
| Width | 72.9" | 71.5" |
| Height | 57.4" | 57.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 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 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR and 2026 Nissan Sentra SR?
The 2026 Nissan Sentra SR starts at $25,000, $5,480 less than the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR at $30,480. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $97/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR?
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR is the stronger pick when the extra 33 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR?
The 2026 Nissan Sentra SR is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,480 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR covers your needs.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR or 2026 Nissan Sentra SR?
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR produces 182 hp, 33 more than the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR at 149 hp. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR also leads in torque at 178 lb-ft vs 146 lb-ft. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR uses a 2.0L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR, FWD on the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR.
Is the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR bigger than the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR?
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR is 9.6″ longer at 192.9″ vs 183.3″. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR has a 4.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR and 2026 Nissan Sentra SR have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR comes with AWD, while the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR 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.
Explore more: Nissan trims, Nissan Altima trims, Nissan Sentra trims
- 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Altima and Sentra Stack Up
Two midsize sedans, two brands, and a decision that comes down to which one fits your commute and budget. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR starts at $30,480; the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR at $25,000. The $-5,480 gap adds up to $97/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 Sentra
The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR uses a 2.0L I4. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR has 33 more hp (182 vs 149), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR adds 32 more lb-ft of torque (178 vs 146), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR comes with AWD; the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR when the extra 33 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR when you want to keep $5,480 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Sentra SR 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 any dealership.