2023 BMW 3 Series vs 2022 Nissan Altima

The 2022 Nissan Altima continued to build on its legacy of sporty design, a trend that began with its third-generation model in 2002. The sixth-generation Altima featured a low, wide stance, tall doors, and a sharply sloped "floating" roofline, although the latter was seen as an unnecessary design flourish. The Midnight Edition package, available on the SR trim, added a gloss black sport grille, 19-inch wheels, and other blacked-out elements, enhancing the Altima's sporty appeal. Inside, the Altima offered comfortable Zero Gravity front seats and a well-organized instrument panel, though the quality of materials varied across trims.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series, a staple of the Bavarian brand since 1975, received a subtle yet sporty refresh for its seventh-generation model. It retained its narrow kidney grille and introduced redesigned full-LED headlights with inverted L-shaped daytime running lights. The 3 Series offered standard 18-inch wheels with an optional 19-inch upgrade. The interior featured the new BMW iDrive 8 system with a 27.2-inch Curved Display, creating a driver-centric cockpit. The minimalist dashboard design and M Sport package options added to the vehicle's premium feel, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of luxury and performance.

The 2022 Nissan Altima offered two four-cylinder engine options: a 2.5-liter engine producing 188 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque, and a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine with 248 hp and 273 lb-ft. The base engine was available with FWD or AWD, while the VC-Turbo was limited to the SR trim with FWD. All Altimas featured a CVT, with paddle shifters on the SR trim. The VC-Turbo engine, capable of adjusting its compression ratio for performance or efficiency, was praised for its power but lacked AWD compatibility. The base engine provided a smooth ride, but acceleration was mediocre, and engine noise was noticeable.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series carried over its powertrains from previous years, including a twin-turbo 2.0-liter engine for the 330i and 330e, and a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six for the M340i. The 330i produced 255 hp and 295 lb-ft, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The 330e, with its electric assist, offered 288 hp and 258 lb-ft, with a 5.6-second 0-60 mph time and 22 miles of electric range. The M340i, with 382 hp and 369 lb-ft, reached 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. The 3 Series offered a balanced ride, with precise steering and a comfortable suspension, making it a versatile performer.

The 2022 Nissan Altima provided comfortable seating for four, with a fifth seat suitable for short distances. Its dimensions placed it in the middle of its class, with a 15.4-cubic-foot trunk and a 16.2-gallon fuel tank. The Altima's high rear shelf and sloping roofline compromised rear visibility, and the trunk's metal bar supports could crush items if not packed carefully.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series offered a compact yet comfortable interior, with 38.7 inches of front headroom and 42 inches of legroom. Rear passengers had 37.6 inches of headroom and 35.2 inches of legroom. The 3 Series featured SensaTec faux leather upholstery, power-adjustable front sport seats, and a leather steering wheel. Cargo capacity was 17 cubic feet, with rear seats folding in a 40/20/40 split. Standard features included a power moonroof, with options for heated seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2022 Nissan Altima's entry-level S trim featured a 5-inch multi-function display and a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims offered an 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a nine-speaker Bose audio system, and navigation. Available technologies included active noise cancellation, traffic sign recognition, and ProPilot Assist, which provided semi-autonomous driving assistance.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series introduced the iDrive 8 system with a 12.3-inch driver display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The system allowed for easy customization and voice control via the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. Standard tech features included USB-C ports, Bluetooth, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 10-speaker sound system. Optional upgrades included wireless charging, a Harman Kardon sound system, and a 5G hotspot.

The 2022 Nissan Altima came with standard driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and forward-collision warning. The SV trim added Safety Shield 360, which included rear automatic braking and blind-spot warning. The Altima received a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, with high marks for crashworthiness and crash prevention.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series received a five-star NHTSA rating, though the PHEV model was unrated. The 2022 model earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, missing the "Plus" distinction due to headlight ratings. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, LED headlights, and Active Guard. Optional packages added advanced driving assistance systems and a head-up display.