2022 Honda Civic Hatchback vs 2022 Nissan Altima

When it came to visual appeal and emotional engagement, the 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback sought to capture a slice of the small but dedicated hatchback market. The redesign brought a contemporary look that shared much with the Civic sedan, from the front doors forward. However, the hatchback featured a different grille pattern and unique wheel designs. Its rear-quarter view appeared balanced, although the stubby rear profile did not entirely escape criticism. Entering the car revealed a modern, sophisticated interior equipped with high-quality controls and attractive honeycomb dashboard detailing. However, the CVT shifter operation was somewhat unimpressive.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Altima evolved significantly from its bland beginnings. Featuring the signature V-Motion grille and a low, wide stance, the Altima’s design radiated sportiness. The optional Midnight Edition package enhanced the aesthetic with gloss black details and 19-inch wheels. The interior, especially in higher trims, included comfortable Zero Gravity front seats and well-thought-out dashboard ergonomics. However, lower trims lacked the same material quality, and the high rear shelf and sloping roofline impeded rear visibility. Nevertheless, the Midnight Edition’s sportiness indicated an intentional effort to appeal visually.

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback offered two engine choices. The base models, LX and Sport, featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque. Better suited for day-to-day driving, these specs were adequate but not thrilling. The EX-L and Sport Touring trims, however, had a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that offered 180 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. This engine made the driving experience more lively, and the availability of a six-speed manual transmission on the Sport Touring trim added to the appeal for driving enthusiasts. Despite some limitations like squishy all-season tires and brakes that faded under heavy use, the turbocharged engine provided a smile-inducing ride.

The 2022 Nissan Altima provided a choice between a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a technologically advanced 2.0-liter variable-compression turbo (VC-Turbo). The base engine produced 188 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque and was available with both FWD and AWD. In contrast, the VC-Turbo offered 248 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque but was only available on the SR trim with FWD. This engine featured the ability to change its compression ratio for a balance of power and efficiency. While the base engine provided uninspired acceleration, the Altima demonstrated excellent road manners and a smooth, composed ride. The CVT transmission, however, delivered a fair amount of engine noise during acceleration.

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback excelled in functionality with a trunk space of 24.5 cubic feet. The two-piece cargo shade was a practical addition, simplifying packing. Though Honda didn't specify the maximum cargo capacity with the rear seats folded, it was estimated to be near double the trunk’s capacity. Rear passenger comfort faced minor issues, notably the lack of a seat-height adjuster for the front passenger seat and the absence of rear air conditioning vents. Conversely, the front provided eight-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat and heated front seats, offering substantial comfort.

The 2022 Nissan Altima, filling the role of a midsize sedan, provided a balanced approach in dimensions and space. The trunk offered 15.4 cubic feet of storage, falling short of the Civic Hatchback’s expansive boot. Despite this, the Altima’s interior presented comfortable seating, user-friendly controls, and accessible rear seats. However, rear visibility was compromised by a high rear shelf and sloping roofline, making it challenging to monitor traffic behind. Additionally, the metal bar supports of the trunk could crush cargo if not carefully loaded, posing a hassle for those with full-packed trips.

In terms of infotainment, the 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback presented a notable upgrade with a new system. Most trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen, physical power/volume knobs, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Sport Touring trim took it further with a 9-inch display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. This trim also supported wireless smartphone charging and advanced navigation options. Physical knobs and a steadying shelf made it user-friendly for on-the-go operation.

The 2022 Nissan Altima started with a basic 5-inch display on the S trim but offered a more advanced 8-inch system on higher trims. This included features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and multiple USB ports. Higher trims like the SL added a nine-speaker Bose system and integrated navigation. The Altima's tech arsenal also featured ProPilot Assist and active noise cancellation, enhancing driving convenience and cabin quietness. Though our test car lacked ProPilot Assist, the available technology operated flawlessly, ensuring a seamless user experience.

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback came equipped with the Honda Sensing suite, offering an improved array of driver-assist features. These included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and Road Departure Mitigation. New additions such as low-speed following capability and Traffic Jam Assist further reduced driver stress, albeit only on CVT models. The car also boasted a host of passive safety features, contributing to its “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS.

Similarly, the 2022 Nissan Altima didn’t skimp on safety features. Standard equipment included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and forward-collision warning. Starting with the SV trim, the Altima added Safety Shield 360, encompassing rear automatic braking, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features contributed to its five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and “Top Safety Pick+” designation from the IIHS. The Altima's driver-assist systems were comprehensive, ensuring high levels of occupant protection.