2026 Toyota Prius LE vs 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S
23 mpg better and awd vs $2,950 less and 11.8″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 196 vs 188 hp, 54 vs 31 MPG.
The Prius LE leads on 23 MPG better, AWD. The Altima 2.5 S leads on $2,950 less, 11.8″ longer. 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 Toyota Prius LE | 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $29,950 | $27,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 hybrid | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 196 hp | 188 hp |
| Torque | No published data | 180 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 53 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 54 | 38 |
| Combined MPG | 54 | 31 |
| Fuel Tank | 10.5 gal | 16.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,400/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,230 lbs | 3,253 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.3" | 111.2" |
| Length | 181.1" | 192.9" |
| Width | 70.2" | 72.9" |
| Height | 55.9" | 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 | 2yr/25k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota Prius LE and 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S starts at $27,000, $2,950 less than the 2026 Toyota Prius LE at $29,950. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $52/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Prius LE?
The 2026 Toyota Prius LE is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $577/year less on fuel; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted; 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 $2,950 in your pocket and the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S covers your needs; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Prius LE or 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2026 Toyota Prius LE rates 54 combined MPG, 23 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Prius LE or 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2026 Toyota Prius LE produces 196 hp, 8 more than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S at 188 hp. The 2026 Toyota Prius LE runs a 2.0L I4 hybrid; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Toyota Prius LE, FWD on the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S.
Is the 2026 Toyota Prius LE bigger than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is 11.8″ longer at 192.9″ vs 181.1″. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S has a 2.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Toyota Prius LE and 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Toyota Prius LE comes with AWD, while the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 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?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota Prius trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Altima trims
- 2026 Toyota Prius LE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Prius 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 Toyota Prius LE starts at $29,950; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S at $27,000. The $-2,950 gap adds up to $52/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: Prius vs Altima
The 2026 Toyota Prius LE runs a 2.0L I4 hybrid; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 8 hp difference (196 vs 188) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Toyota Prius LE comes with AWD; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Toyota Prius LE saves roughly $577/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,885.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is 11.8″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Toyota Prius LE when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $577/year less on fuel. Choose the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S when you want to keep $2,950 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.