2026 Toyota Corolla LE vs 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S
$4,075 less and 3 mpg better vs 29 more lb-ft torque and 10.4″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $4,075 price gap, 169 vs 188 hp, 34 vs 31 MPG.
The Corolla LE leads on $4,075 less, 3 MPG better. The Altima 2.5 S leads on 29 more lb-ft torque, 10.4″ longer. 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 | 2026 Toyota Corolla LE | 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $22,925 | $27,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 169 hp | 188 hp |
| Torque | 151 lb-ft | 180 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 31 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 38 | 38 |
| Combined MPG | 34 | 31 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 16.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,300/yr | $1,400/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,955 lbs | 3,253 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 111.2" |
| Length | 182.5" | 192.9" |
| Width | 70.1" | 72.9" |
| Height | 56.5" | 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 2026 Toyota Corolla LE and 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla LE starts at $22,925, $4,075 less than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S at $27,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $71/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla LE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,075 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $120/year less on fuel; 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 the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE or 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla LE rates 34 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE or 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S produces 188 hp, 19 more than the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE at 169 hp. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S also leads in torque at 180 lb-ft vs 151 lb-ft. The 2026 Toyota Corolla LE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE bigger than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is 10.4″ longer at 192.9″ vs 182.5″. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S has a 4.9″ 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: Toyota trims, Toyota Corolla trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Altima trims
- 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Corolla–Altima Decision
Shopping compact cars means the Corolla and Altima will likely end up on the same test-drive day. Here is what the numbers say before you get behind the wheel. The $4,075 gap adds up to $71/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 2026 Toyota Corolla LE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 19 hp difference (188 vs 169) is marginal in daily driving. Both use FWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Toyota Corolla LE saves roughly $120/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $600. The 2026 Toyota Corolla LE wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Living With the Corolla vs the Altima
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is 10.4″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE when you want to keep $4,075 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Corolla LE covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo. At $71/month more, the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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.