2021 Nissan Altima vs 2020 Lexus ES

The 2020 Lexus ES underwent a transformation from its earlier "boring" reputation, evolving into a more aggressive-looking vehicle. The introduction of the large spindle grille in 2016, which grew even larger in the 2020 model, complemented the car's increased proportions, creating a cohesive design. The rear of the ES was more understated, featuring thin taillamps and a distinctive kink in the side windows. Inside, the ES boasted a luxurious cabin with soft-touch materials and a large infotainment screen integrated into the dash. The interior was considered one of the best among luxury sedans, second only to Mercedes-Benz. The ES offered various trims, including the base 350 FWD, Luxury, Ultra Luxury, and F Sport, each with a range of standard and optional features.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Altima showcased a strong family identity with its bold V-Motion grille, available in chrome or dark chrome. The Altima's sleek, aerodynamic profile was enhanced by a sloping roofline and taut body lines, though its stance appeared slightly old-fashioned due to its proportions. Despite this, modern features like LED lighting and alloy wheels kept the design contemporary. The Altima's fit and finish were exceptional, with a range of nine exterior colors. Inside, the Altima featured an uncluttered dashboard with a standard 8-inch touchscreen display, and the interior materials improved with higher trim levels. The base model felt basic, but the upper trims offered a more refined experience.

The 2020 Lexus ES was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup allowed the ES to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with a top speed of 131 mph. While not a high-performance vehicle, the ES provided confident acceleration and a comfortable, refined ride. The Dynamic Control Shocks contributed to the smooth ride, and the F Sport trim offered an optional Adaptive Variable Suspension for enhanced driving dynamics. The ES's steering was light yet precise, and the F Sport trim added paddle shifters for a more engaging experience.

The 2021 Nissan Altima offered a choice between two powertrains. Most models featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on most trims. The fuel economy was impressive, with up to 39 mpg on the highway for FWD models. The standout option was the VC-Turbo engine, exclusive to the SR VC-Turbo trim, producing 248 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided a more spirited driving experience while maintaining good fuel efficiency. The Altima's suspension was sport-tuned for the VC-Turbo, though the difference was subtle. The electric-powered steering offered decent feedback.

The 2020 Lexus ES featured a spacious cabin with ample head- and legroom in both rows. The rear-seat headroom was improved in the 2019 redesign, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The front doors had deep pockets, and the center console offered multiple storage options. The ES provided 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space, which was average for the segment. However, the rear seats did not fold down, limiting cargo flexibility.

The 2021 Nissan Altima was praised for its Zero Gravity front seats, which provided exceptional comfort on long drives. Upper trims offered power adjustments, memory settings, and leather upholstery. The front cabin included ample storage options, such as a large glovebox, center console bin, and door pockets. The second row was roomy enough for two adults, with a 60/40 split-folding design for trunk access. The Altima's trunk offered 15.4 cubic feet of space, slightly less than the ES.

The 2020 Lexus ES featured the Lexus Remote Touch system, which used a touch-sensitive pad to control the infotainment display. While not a touchscreen, the system was intuitive once familiar. The ES came standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the available 12.3-inch display offered a dramatic interface. The ES also offered a 10-speaker audio system, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system. A head-up display was available for added convenience.

The 2021 Nissan Altima included a range of standard tech features, such as pushbutton start, remote engine start, and Bluetooth connectivity. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard on most trims, with an 8-inch touchscreen display. Higher trims offered additional USB ports, a Bose audio system, and Active Noise Cancellation. The Altima also featured Nissan Door to Door Navigation and NissanConnect Services on upper trims, providing a comprehensive suite of connectivity options.

The 2020 Lexus ES came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and dynamic radar cruise control. The system also featured pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keep assist, and lane-tracing assist for semi-autonomous highway driving. Additional safety features included airbags, traction control, stability control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Nissan Altima offered Nissan Safety Shield 360 on SV trims and above, which included automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear automatic braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot warning, and lane-departure warning. ProPilot Assist was available for highway driving assistance, featuring adaptive cruise control and intelligent lane intervention. The Altima also offered an Intelligent Around View Monitor for easier parking. It received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.