2020 Nissan Altima vs 2021 Nissan Maxima

The 2020 Nissan Altima, available in Canada in S, SV, and Platinum trims, presented a sleek and modern design following its recent redesign. The Platinum trim, priced at $37,028 before fees, featured 19-inch machined-finish aluminum wheels that enhanced its visual appeal. However, some design elements, such as the door handle alignment and rear diffuser panel, were less than ideal. Inside, the Altima boasted a clean and contemporary interior with user-friendly controls, including a high-mounted touchscreen infotainment system and traditional transmission shifter. The materials used were consistent with the midsize sedan segment, with matte chrome detailing and simulated wood trim adding a touch of elegance.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Maxima, as a flagship sedan, set a bold styling precedent for other Nissan models. Its distinctive "floating" roofline and "V-Motion" grille gave it a striking appearance, akin to an Art Deco locomotive. The 40th Anniversary Edition trim, although not available in Canada, showcased elements like 19-inch gloss-black alloy wheels and black exterior trim. The Maxima's design was more daring compared to its counterparts, such as the Toyota Avalon, and it maintained a unique presence on the road.

The 2020 Nissan Altima in Canada was equipped with a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 188 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). This configuration aimed to make the Altima more competitive against SUVs. The Altima's suspension system, featuring a strut front and multi-link rear, along with dual-pinion electric steering and 4-wheel-disc brakes, contributed to its impressive ride and handling. Intelligent Ride Control and Intelligent Trace Control further enhanced the driving experience, although the CVT's power delivery could be unpredictable at times.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima, on the other hand, was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine generating 300 horsepower and 261 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT and front-wheel drive (FWD). While not a "four-door sports car," the Maxima delivered a satisfying driving experience with its quick acceleration and responsive V6 engine. The CVT performed admirably, offering smooth power delivery. However, the Maxima's handling revealed some limitations, such as a lack of steering precision and susceptibility to torque steer. Despite these drawbacks, the Maxima remained a solid performer, especially during highway cruising, where its quiet cabin and comfortable ride shone.

The 2020 Nissan Altima's interior was designed for comfort, with NASA-inspired seats providing a sensation of weightlessness. However, the lack of a front passenger seat height adjuster and ventilated front seats was a drawback. The Altima offered heated front seats, side mirrors, and an optional heated steering wheel, along with substantial in-cabin storage. Trunk space measured 436 litres, with optional grocery bag hooks and an interior grab handle for convenience.

In contrast, the 2021 Nissan Maxima prioritized front-seat space, offering generous headroom and legroom, but at the expense of rear-seat passengers. The Maxima's seats, featuring Nissan's "Zero Gravity" design, provided excellent support, although more thigh bolstering would have been appreciated. The cabin layout favoured the driver, with good visibility and easy access to controls. However, the centre console's proximity to the driver could feel cramped. The Maxima's trunk space was limited to 405 litres, making it less practical for cargo compared to competitors with hatchback designs.

The 2020 Nissan Altima featured a nearly perfect infotainment system with an 8-inch display, physical and virtual buttons, and standard connectivity options like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Available features included a navigation system, Bose premium audio, and NissanConnect Services, offering various plans for connected services. The system's only drawback was its voice recognition technology, which required specific commands.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima's infotainment system, while covering basic features like an 8-inch touchscreen and smartphone compatibility, felt dated in terms of graphics and functionality. The system included a WiFi hotspot and an 11-speaker Bose audio system, but the touchscreen's small icons and outdated notification sounds detracted from the user experience. However, the Maxima provided ample analog controls, allowing drivers to bypass the touchscreen for most functions.

The 2020 Nissan Altima came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a driver attention monitor. Higher trims added pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and more. ProPilot Assist, a Level 2 semi-autonomous system, was available but proved challenging to trust. The Altima received a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.

The 2021 Nissan Maxima earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Maxima lacked ProPilot Assist but offered a 360-degree camera system on higher trims, with a conveniently placed dashboard button for easy access.