2026 Volkswagen Jetta S vs 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S
$3,005 less and 3 mpg better vs 30 more hp. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $3,005 price gap, 158 vs 188 hp, 34 vs 31 MPG.
The Jetta S leads on $3,005 less, 3 MPG better. The Altima 2.5 S leads on 30 more hp. 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 Volkswagen Jetta S | 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $23,995 | $27,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 188 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 180 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 29 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 40 | 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 | 2,998 lbs | 3,253 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.7" | 111.2" |
| Length | 186.5" | 192.9" |
| Width | 70.8" | 72.9" |
| Height | 57.7" | 56.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/50k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S and 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S starts at $23,995, $3,005 less than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S at $27,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $52/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,005 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $120/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 30 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S or 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S rates 34 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S or 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S produces 188 hp, 30 more than the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S at 158 hp. The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S also leads in torque at 184 lb-ft vs 180 lb-ft. The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S bigger than the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S?
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S is 6.4″ longer at 192.9″ vs 186.5″. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S has a 5.5″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Volkswagen Jetta comes with 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain. The Nissan Altima offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Volkswagen trims, Volkswagen Jetta trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Altima trims
Jetta vs Altima: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S and 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S are both compact cars competing for the same buyer. Price, fuel economy, and daily comfort are the tie-breakers. The $3,005 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.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S uses a 2.5L I4. The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S has 30 more hp (188 vs 158), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use FWD.
Running Costs: Jetta vs Altima
The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S saves roughly $120/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $600. The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S has a 5.5″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S when you want to keep $3,005 in your pocket and the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta S covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5 S when the extra 30 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $52/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 Volkswagen or Nissan or any dealership.