Compare the 2018 Nissan Altima vs 2018 Nissan Maxima

Serving Fredericksburg, VA, Spotsylvania, VA, and Washington, D.C.

Both the Nissan Altima and Maxima have been around for decades, and while both have evolved quite a bit over the years, they remain a solid pick in their respective segments. The Altima is a mid-size sedan that's priced in the middle of the segment, and the Maxima is also in the mid-size class but is adorned with more luxurious features. Both models come in a variety of trims, and there are plenty of add-on package options. Below, a more detailed comparison is provided.

Trim Options

The 2018 Nissan Altima is available in a total of five trims. Each of these includes:

• • Keyless entry and ignition
• • Split folding rear seats
• • Height-adjustable front seats
• • Plastic-covered wheels

The 2018 Nissan Maxima comes standard with:

• • 18-inch wheels
• • Remote engine start
• • Power-adjustable front seats
• • A leather-wrapped steering wheel
• • Adjustable driving modes

The uplevel Altima 2.5R SR trim adds on a rear spoiler and sport-tuned suspension. The 2.5 SV and 2.5 SL add on daytime running lights, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power driver's seat. The 3.5 SL gets larger wheels, a sunroof, and paddle shifters. Uplevel trims of the Maxima include additional standard features including heated mirrors, heated front seats, two-way power lumbar adjustment, active noise reduction, and a dual-pane sunroof. The top-level Platinum trim boasts automatic wipers, a power-adjustable steering column, and upgraded leather upholstery. A power rear sunshade is also featured.

Powertrain

Every 2018 Nissan Altima except the 3.5 SL trim is fitted with a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that produces a total of 179 horsepower. Power is routed to the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission. The uplevel 3.5 SL trim is powered by a 3.5L V6. This powertrain features:

• • 270-horsepower output
• • 251 lb-ft of torque
• • Continuously variable transmission

The 2018 Nissan Maxima comes standard with a 3.5L V6 rated at 300 horsepower. That's considerably more than what the Altima offers, and the engine promises excellent acceleration. Like the Altima, the Maxima sends power to the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission. Steering response is good on both models, particularly the Maxima thanks to the choice of two driving modes, Normal and Sport.

High-Tech and Safety

Standard and optional high-tech features on the Altima and Maxima include:

• • Bluetooth
• • USB ports
• • Satellite radio
• • A premium Bose stereo system

Both the 2018 Nissan Altima and Maxima come with the usual set of standard safety features. These include front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags, the LATCH system of child seat anchors and tethers, and stability control. The Altima also features forward collision warning and emergency braking on all trims including the base 2.5 S. The Altima 2.5 SV includes blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, and the 3.5 SL gets adaptive cruise control. The uplevel Maxima trims come with adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. No options package is necessary in order to get all of the driver alert systems on the SR and Platinum trims.

Contact Pohanka Nissan of Fredericksburg today to schedule a test drive of both models, and remember to inquire about trim availability and special options packages!

MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title and registration fees. Starting at MSRP refers to the base model, optional equipment not included. Pricing and offers may change at any time without notification. To get full pricing details, see your dealer.

All figures are EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.