2020 Nissan Altima vs 2021 Toyota Corolla

The 2020 Nissan Altima, available in Canada in S, SV, and Platinum trims, presented a sleek and modern design, especially in the Platinum version. With a starting MSRP of $30,028 and reaching $37,028 for the Platinum trim, the Altima offered a clean and contemporary interior. The ergonomic simplicity of its design, with a high-mounted touchscreen infotainment system and clearly legible climate controls, made it user-friendly. However, the exterior had a few questionable details, such as the placement of door handles and the body-colour diffuser panel. The interior materials were on par with the midsize sedan segment, featuring matte chrome detailing and simulated wood trim, but limited to black or gray colour options.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Corolla, particularly in the SE and XSE trims, was considered one of the most attractive Corollas in recent history. The sporty design elements, such as sport-design bumpers, a mesh grille insert, and 18-inch aluminum wheels, enhanced its appeal. However, some design aspects, like the hood shut line and over-styled rear bumper, were less favourable. The Corolla's interior, especially in the XSE trim, was a significant improvement over previous models, with soft leatherette materials and a minimalist design. Despite lacking practical storage, the cabin offered a sense of substance and quality.

The 2020 Nissan Altima in Canada featured a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine producing 188 horsepower, paired with a CVT and standard all-wheel drive. This setup aimed to make the Altima more competitive against SUVs. The suspension system, including a strut front and multi-link rear, along with dual-pinion electric steering and 4-wheel-disc brakes, contributed to impressive ride and handling. Intelligent Ride Control and Intelligent Trace Control technologies further enhanced the driving experience. The CVT, while mimicking a traditional automatic, occasionally produced sudden power surges.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE models came with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. The Dynamic Shift CVT, with paddle shifters and a Sport driving mode, provided a more engaging driving experience. The Corolla's TNGA platform, electric steering, and MacPherson strut front suspension contributed to enjoyable driving dynamics. Despite its modest power, the Corolla XSE offered predictable handling and was quick enough for spirited driving. Fuel efficiency was commendable, with an average of 7.6 L/100 km during testing.

The 2020 Nissan Altima's interior focused on 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. Heated front seats and side mirrors were standard, with optional heated steering wheel and rear air conditioning vents. The Altima offered substantial in-cabin storage but lacked a wireless smartphone charging pad. The trunk provided 436 litres of space, with optional grocery bag hooks and an interior grab handle.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE featured SofTex leatherette seats with striped fabric inserts, heated rear seats, and an eight-way power driver's seat. While the front passenger seat lacked a height adjuster, the overall seating comfort was commendable. The rear seats offered good support but limited headroom and legroom. The Corolla's trunk had 371 litres of cargo space, with no interior handle for the trunk lid. Despite these limitations, the Corolla's interior upgrades made it a comfortable and practical choice.

The 2020 Nissan Altima boasted a nearly perfect infotainment system with an 8-inch display, stereo volume and tuning knobs, and physical and virtual buttons for easy navigation. Standard features included Bluetooth, a text-messaging assistant, Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Optional features included SiriusXM, a navigation system, a Bose premium audio system, and NissanConnect Services. The latter offered connected services technology with various plans, although the voice recognition system required specific commands.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla impressed with its standard Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Corolla SE featured an 8-inch touchscreen, while the XSE added Service Connect and Safety Connect. Remote Connect, free for a year, included remote engine starting and a vehicle finder function. The XSE also offered SiriusXM, navigation, and Destination Assist. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with knobs for radio volume and tuning, although the radio knobs could be more accessible.

The 2020 Nissan Altima came with standard forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a driver attention monitor. Higher trims included pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and more. ProPilot Assist, a Level 2 semi-autonomous technology, offered adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance but was challenging to trust. The Altima received a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and more. The addition of rear side-impact airbags and an improved blind-spot warning system enhanced safety. While the adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance had minor issues, the overall performance was refined. The 2020 Corolla received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with the 2021 model awaiting re-testing.