VS
At a Glance
Power
188hp @ 6000
228hp @ 6500
Torque
180lb-ft @ 3600
258lb-ft @ 4000
Engine
2.5 L/152cc
2.0 L/121cc
Choosing between the Nissan Altima and the Volkswagen Jetta is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Nissan Altima delivers 188hp @ 6000 while the Volkswagen Jetta produces 228hp @ 6500. Pricing starts at $28,980 for the Altima and $33,745 for the Jetta. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
188hp @ 6000
228hp @ 6500
Torque (lb-ft)
180lb-ft @ 3600
258lb-ft @ 4000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.5 L/152cc
2.0 L/121cc
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
—
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic
Auto-Shift Manual w/OD
Number of Gears
—
7
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
27 (2025)mpg
26mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
37 (2025)mpg
35mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
16.2gal
13.2gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
192.9in
186.9in
Width (in)
72.9in
70.8in
Height (in)
56.9in
57.3in
Wheelbase (in)
111.2in
105.6in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3321lbs
3311lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
—
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Nissan Altima
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Altima
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Nissan Altima
Lower starting price ($28,980)
Few notable weaknesses
Volkswagen Jetta
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Altima or Jetta?
The Altima produces 188hp @ 6000 and 180lb-ft @ 3600 of torque while the Jetta delivers 228hp @ 6500 and 258lb-ft @ 4000 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Altima and Jetta?
The Altima starts from $28,980 and the Jetta from $33,745. The Altima is cheaper by $4,765 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the Altima or the Jetta?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider