2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid vs 2021 Nissan Altima

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid was a striking departure from its predecessors, capturing attention with its sleek, fastback profile and elegant design. Its transformation was akin to a technological leap, with its stunning LED running lights and aerodynamic enhancements like the black ducktail spoiler. The interior was equally impressive, offering a luxurious feel with its polished black console, ambient lighting, and high-quality materials that rivaled more premium brands. The Sonata Hybrid's design was a testament to Hyundai's evolution, shedding its past reputation for a more sophisticated and stylish image.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Altima maintained a strong family identity with its bold V-Motion grille and sleek, aerodynamic profile. While its design leaned towards a more traditional look, it still offered modern features like LED lighting and a range of wheel options. The Altima's fit and finish were commendable, with deep lustrous paint and rich chrome details. Inside, the Altima provided a well-organized dashboard and comfortable seating, especially with the Zero Gravity front seats that promised comfort on long drives. The Altima's design was a blend of contemporary and classic elements, appealing to those who preferred a more understated aesthetic.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid featured a 2.0-liter engine running on the Atkinson cycle, paired with a 51-hp electric motor, delivering a combined 192 hp. Its six-speed automatic transmission provided a more traditional driving experience compared to the CVTs found in most hybrids. The Sonata Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, with the Blue trim achieving an impressive 50 mpg city, 54 mpg highway, and 52 mpg combined. The driving experience was characterized by a silent interior, plush ride, and competent chassis, making it a comfortable choice for long journeys.

The 2021 Nissan Altima offered a choice between a 2.5-liter engine with 182 hp and a more powerful VC-Turbo engine with 248 hp. The VC-Turbo, available only in the SR VC-Turbo trim, provided a lively performance with its variable compression technology. The Altima's fuel economy varied, with the 2.5-liter engine achieving up to 39 mpg highway with FWD, while the VC-Turbo managed 34 mpg highway. The Altima's suspension and steering provided a decent driving experience, though the sport-tuned suspension of the VC-Turbo didn't significantly differentiate it from the standard setup.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid offered a spacious interior with features like a solar-panel roof that provided additional headroom and a quiet, comfortable rear cabin with ample legroom. The trunk offered 16 cubic feet of cargo space, and the push-button gear selector and dual-zone climate control added to the convenience. The Limited trim featured a high-res digital dash and a 10-inch touchscreen, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2021 Nissan Altima boasted Nissan’s Zero Gravity front seats, providing exceptional comfort for long drives. The interior offered ample storage options, including a large glovebox, center console storage, and door pockets. The second row was roomy enough for two adults, and the trunk provided 15.4 cubic feet of space. The Altima's interior was practical and well-designed, catering to the needs of everyday drivers.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid's infotainment system was a highlight, with a soothing color scheme and intuitive interface. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Hyundai Blue Link, along with a digital key and live camera feeds for blind-spot monitoring. The Highway Driving Assist and head-up display added to the tech-savvy experience, making the Sonata Hybrid feel like a premium vehicle.

The 2021 Nissan Altima came equipped with standard tech features like the Nissan Intelligent Key, remote engine start, and Bluetooth connectivity. The infotainment system varied by trim, with a 7-inch display on the base model and an 8-inch NissanConnect touchscreen on higher trims. The Altima also offered advanced features like a Bose audio system and Nissan Door to Door Navigation on select trims, providing a comprehensive tech package for drivers.

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. It came standard with features like lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Limited trim offered additional safety features like parking sensors and Highway Driving Assist, ensuring a secure driving experience.

The 2021 Nissan Altima featured Nissan Safety Shield 360, a suite of safety features standard on SV trims and above. It included automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot warning. ProPilot Assist was available for enhanced highway driving assistance. The Altima received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick + rating from the IIHS, highlighting its commitment to safety.