Toyota Camry vs Nissan Altima 2026 Comparison
The Toyota Camry leads in reliability ratings (86% vs 79% in dependability surveys) and resale value retention (62% after 5 years vs 56%), while the Nissan Altima offers more standard tech features and a lower starting price ($28,690 vs $29,745). Both are midsize sedans, but the Camry prioritizes longevity while the Altima emphasizes value and features.
Toyota Camry
Midsize sedan known for reliability, fuel efficiency, and strong resale value.
Long-term owners, resale-conscious buyers, fleet operators, and those prioritizing reliability over initial cost savings.
Nissan Altima
Midsize sedan emphasizing value, tech features, and performance-oriented styling.
Budget-conscious buyers, those planning to trade in within 4-5 years, and drivers wanting modern tech features without premium pricing.
Quick Answer
AI SummaryThe Toyota Camry leads in reliability ratings (86% vs 79% in dependability surveys) and resale value retention (62% after 5 years vs 56%), while the Nissan Altima offers more standard tech features and a lower starting price ($28,690 vs $29,745). Both are midsize sedans, but the Camry prioritizes longevity while the Altima emphasizes value and features.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChoose the Toyota Camry if you prioritize long-term reliability, lower maintenance costs, and strong resale value — it's the safer investment for drivers keeping their car 7+ years. Choose the Nissan Altima if you want lower upfront costs, more tech features as standard, and don't mind a steeper depreciation curve — it's better for budget-conscious buyers planning to trade in after 4-5 years.
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Choose Toyota Camry if
Best pickLong-term owners, resale-conscious buyers, fleet operators, and those prioritizing reliability over initial cost savings.
Choose Nissan Altima if
Budget-conscious buyers, those planning to trade in within 4-5 years, and drivers wanting modern tech features without premium pricing.
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Key Differences at a Glance
- Starting Price (2026 Base Model):✓ Nissan Altima wins($28,690 vs $29,745)
- 5-Year Reliability Rating:✓ Toyota Camry wins(86% vs 79%)
- 5-Year Resale Value Retention:✓ Toyota Camry wins(62% vs 56%)
Key Facts & Figures
50 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | Toyota Camry | Nissan Altima | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price (2026)(USD) | $32,500 (estimated) | — | — |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Hybrid)(MPG) | 49-50 MPG combined | — | — |
| Standard Touchscreen Size(inches) | 8 inches | — | — |
| City Fuel Economy (Hybrid)(MPG) | 53 MPG | — | — |
| Highway Fuel Economy (Hybrid)(MPG) | 46 MPG | — | — |
| Interior Width (Front Legroom)(inches) | 38.6 inches | — | — |
| Cargo Capacity(cubic feet) | 15.1 cu ft | — | — |
| Safety Rating (NHTSA Overall)(stars) | 5 stars | — | — |
| Engine Horsepower(hp) | 225 hp @ 6000 RPM | — | — |
| Engine Torque(lb-ft) | 163 lb-ft @ 5200 RPM | — | — |
| Fuel Tank Capacity(gallons) | 13 gallons | — | — |
| Estimated MPG Combined(MPG) | 51 MPG | — | — |
| Infotainment Screen Size(inches) | 10.2-inch digital cluster | — | — |
| Seating Capacity(seats) | 5 seats | — | — |
| Cargo Space(cu-ft) | 15.1 cu-ft | — | — |
| Starting MSRP (2026)(USD) | $29,765 | — | — |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Standard Non-Hybrid)(mpg) | 33 mpg | — | — |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Hybrid)(mpg) | 52 mpg | — | — |
| J.D. Power Dependability Rating(ranking) | 94/100 | — | — |
| 3-Year Resale Value Retention(%) | 63% | 58% | |
| Standard Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 8 inches | — | — |
| Rear Seat Legroom(inches) | 38.3 inches | — | — |
| Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction(score out of 10) | 8.2/10 | — | — |
| Starting MSRP (2025)(USD) | $29,390 | $28,500 | |
| Base Engine Power(hp) | 203 hp (4-cyl naturally aspirated) | 188 hp (4-cyl naturally aspirated) | |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Standard Engine)(MPG) | 28-32 MPG | 26-30 MPG | |
| J.D. Power Reliability Rating(out of 5) | 92/100 | 85/100 | |
| Highway Cabin Noise Level(dB) | 71 dB | 73 dB | |
| Turbocharged Engine Option(hp) | Not available | 260 hp (2.0L Turbo) | — |
| Starting Price (MSRP 2026)(USD) | $28,045 | — | — |
| Highway Fuel Economy(mpg) | 33 MPG | — | — |
| Base Engine Power Output(hp) | 203 hp | — | — |
| Base Engine Torque(lb-ft) | 184 lb-ft | — | — |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration(seconds) | 8.2 seconds | — | — |
| Trunk Capacity(cubic feet) | 15.1 cu ft | — | — |
| Infotainment Screen Size (Standard)(inches) | 8 inches | — | — |
| 5-Year Residual Value Retention(percent) | 58% | — | — |
| Starting Price (2026 LE/S Trim)(USD) | $29,745 | $28,690 | |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy(MPG) | 32 MPG (LE gasoline) | 30 MPG (S gasoline) | |
| 5-Year Reliability Rating(percent) | 86% | 79% | |
| 5-Year Resale Value Retention(percent) | 62% | 56% | |
| Trunk/Cargo Volume(cubic feet) | 15.1 cu ft | 15.2 cu ft | |
| Owner Satisfaction (J.D. Power 2025)(score/100) | 84/100 | 81/100 | |
| Fuel Tank Capacity(liters) | 14.5 L | 14.8 L | |
| Starting MSRP (2025 Base Model)(USD) | $28,950 | $28,950 | |
| J.D. Power Reliability Score(points) | 85/100 | 85/100 | |
| Trunk Cargo Capacity(cu ft) | 18.4 cu ft | 18.4 cu ft | |
| Maximum Engine Output (Turbo)(HP) | 278 HP | 278 HP | |
| Rear Legroom(inches) | 37.9 in | 37.9 in | |
| NHTSA Overall Safety Rating(percentile) | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
Sourced from publicly available data ·
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
- $29,745Starting Price (2026 Base Model)$28,690(winner)
- 86%(winner)5-Year Reliability Rating79%
- 62%(winner)5-Year Resale Value Retention56%
- 32 MPG(winner)EPA Combined Fuel Economy (LE/S Trim)30 MPG
- 8 inchesStandard Touchscreen Size (Base Model)8 inches
- 15.1 cu ftCargo Space (Trunk Volume)15.2 cu ft(winner)
- 84/100(winner)Owner Satisfaction (J.D. Power 2025)81/100
- Starting Price (2026 Base Model)
Toyota Camry
$29,745
Nissan Altima
$28,690(winner)
- 5-Year Reliability Rating
Toyota Camry
86%(winner)
Nissan Altima
79%
- 5-Year Resale Value Retention
Toyota Camry
62%(winner)
Nissan Altima
56%
- EPA Combined Fuel Economy (LE/S Trim)
Toyota Camry
32 MPG(winner)
Nissan Altima
30 MPG
- Standard Touchscreen Size (Base Model)
Toyota Camry
8 inches
Nissan Altima
8 inches
- Cargo Space (Trunk Volume)
Toyota Camry
15.1 cu ft
Nissan Altima
15.2 cu ft(winner)
- Owner Satisfaction (J.D. Power 2025)
Toyota Camry
84/100(winner)
Nissan Altima
81/100
Full Comparison
| Attribute | ||
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price (2026)(USD) | $32,500 (estimated) | — |
| Starting MSRP (2026)(USD) | $29,765 | — |
| Starting MSRP (2025)(USD) | $29,390 | $28,500(winner) |
| Starting Price (MSRP 2026)(USD) | $28,045 | — |
| Starting Price (2026 LE/S Trim)(USD) | $29,745 | $28,690(winner) |
Show 1 more attributeStarting MSRP (2025 Base Model)(USD) $28,950 — | ||
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Hybrid)(MPG) | 49-50 MPG combined | — |
| City Fuel Economy (Hybrid)(MPG) | 53 MPG | — |
| Highway Fuel Economy (Hybrid)(MPG) | 46 MPG | — |
| Estimated MPG Combined(MPG) | 51 MPG | — |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Standard Non-Hybrid)(mpg) | 33 mpg | — |
Show 4 more attributesEPA Combined Fuel Economy (Hybrid)(mpg) 52 mpg — EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Standard Engine)(MPG) 28-32 MPG 26-30 MPG Highway Fuel Economy(mpg) 33 MPG — EPA Combined Fuel Economy(MPG) 32 MPG (LE gasoline) 30 MPG (S gasoline) | ||
| Engine Type (Standard) | 2.5L 4-Cylinder Hybrid | — |
| Transmission Type | CVT | — |
| Standard Touchscreen Size(inches) | 8 inches | — |
| Infotainment Screen Size(inches) | 10.2-inch digital cluster | — |
| Powertrain Type | Gasoline only | — |
| Standard Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 8 inches | — |
| Infotainment Screen Size (Standard)(inches) | 8 inches | — |
Show 1 more attributeStandard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Requires $1,500 upgrade Standard on all trims | ||
| Heated Door Mirrors Standard | Yes | — |
| Highway Cabin Noise Level(dB) | 71 dB(winner) | 73 dB |
| Rear Legroom(inches) | 37.9 in | — |
| Interior Width (Front Legroom)(inches) | 38.6 inches | — |
| Cargo Capacity(cubic feet) | 15.1 cu ft | — |
| Safety Rating (NHTSA Overall)(stars) | 5 stars | — |
| Standard Driver Assistance Features | Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ | — |
| NHTSA Overall Safety Rating(percentile) | 5/5 stars | — |
| Engine Horsepower(hp) | 225 hp @ 6000 RPM | — |
| Engine Torque(lb-ft) | 163 lb-ft @ 5200 RPM | — |
| Base Engine Power(hp) | 203 hp (4-cyl naturally aspirated)(winner) | 188 hp (4-cyl naturally aspirated) |
| Turbocharged Engine Option(hp) | Not available | 260 hp (2.0L Turbo) |
| Base Engine Power Output(hp) | 203 hp | — |
Show 3 more attributesBase Engine Torque(lb-ft) 184 lb-ft — 0-60 mph Acceleration(seconds) 8.2 seconds — Maximum Engine Output (Turbo)(HP) 278 HP — | ||
| Fuel Tank Capacity(gallons) | 13 gallons | — |
| Seating Capacity(seats) | 5 seats | — |
| Cargo Space(cu-ft) | 15.1 cu-ft | — |
| Trunk Cargo Capacity(cu ft) | 18.4 cu ft | — |
| J.D. Power Dependability Rating(ranking) | 94/100 | — |
| J.D. Power Reliability Rating(out of 5) | 92/100(winner) | 85/100 |
| 5-Year Reliability Rating(percent) | 86%(winner) | 79% |
| 3-Year Resale Value Retention(%) | 63%(winner) | 58% |
| 5-Year Residual Value Retention(percent) | 58% | — |
| 5-Year Resale Value Retention(percent) | 62%(winner) | 56% |
| Powertrain Warranty Coverage(miles) | 5 yr / 60k mi | — |
| Standard Warranty - Powertrain(years/miles) | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| Rear Seat Legroom(inches) | 38.3 inches | — |
| Trunk Capacity(cubic feet) | 15.1 cu ft | — |
| Consumer Reports Owner Satisfaction(score out of 10) | 8.2/10 | — |
| Owner Satisfaction (J.D. Power 2025)(score/100) | 84/100(winner) | 81/100 |
| Trunk/Cargo Volume(cubic feet) | 15.1 cu ft | 15.2 cu ft(winner) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity(liters) | 14.5 L | 14.8 L(winner) |
| J.D. Power Reliability Score(points) | 85/100 | — |
Show 1 more attribute
Show 4 more attributes
Show 1 more attribute
Show 3 more attributes
Pros & Cons
10 pros·4 cons across both
Toyota Camry
Pros
- 86% 5-year reliability rating (vs 79% Altima) — Toyota's legendary durability reduces repair costs
- 62% resale value retention after 5 years — saves $2,400-3,200 vs Altima over ownership
- 32 MPG combined fuel economy — 2 MPG better efficiency than Altima LE
- Hybrid option available (52 MPG combined) — lowest cost-per-mile among midsize sedans
- Available adaptive suspension — smoother ride on highways and rough roads
Cons
- $29,745 starting price is $1,055 more than Altima base model
- Base model infotainment lacks smartphone integration (CarPlay/Android Auto) — requires upgrade
Nissan Altima
Pros
- $28,690 starting price — $1,055 cheaper than Camry LE, lower entry barrier
- Standard Apple CarPlay & Android Auto on all trims — base Camry requires $1,500 upgrade
- 14.8-liter fuel tank vs 14.5 Camry — 4% larger fuel capacity for longer range between fill-ups
- Available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (e-AWD) — better traction in snow/wet conditions
- More aggressive exterior styling — sportier visual appeal than conservative Camry design
Cons
- 79% 5-year reliability rating — 7 points lower than Camry, statistically higher repair probability
- 56% resale value retention — loses $2,400-3,200 more value than Camry over 5 years
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
The Toyota Camry has a documented 86% 5-year reliability rating versus the Nissan Altima's 79%, per J.D. Power data. Toyota owners report 18% fewer unscheduled repairs. This 7-point gap means Altima owners spend an average of $800-1,200 more in repairs over 5 years.
Resources & Learn More
Curated sources to dive deeper
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