2022 Nissan Altima vs 2021 BMW 5 Series

The 2021 BMW 5 Series presented a restrained design, distinguishing itself from other BMW sedans with its understated elegance. It underwent a minor styling refresh, resulting in a sleeker appearance with streamlined LED headlights and a larger, yet tastefully proportioned, twin-kidney grille. The sedan's design updates included trapezoidal tailpipes, L-shaped taillights, and new bumpers for the M Sport Package, contributing to its aerodynamic efficiency. Inside, the 5 Series maintained its classic BMW layout, with familiar elements like the touchscreen positioning and unique shifter design. While the interior materials varied by trim level, the Nappa leather option in the 540i xDrive test car added a touch of luxury, complemented by aluminum trim. However, the sport steering wheel felt somewhat out of place in the otherwise refined interior.

The 2022 Nissan Altima continued its evolution from its original bland design to a sharper, sportier look. Available in three trim levels in Canada, the Altima featured Nissan's V-Motion grille and a low, wide stance with a "floating" roofline. The SR Midnight Edition, with its gloss black accents and sporty enhancements, elevated the Altima's appearance. Inside, the Altima offered comfortable Zero Gravity front seats and a well-organized instrument panel. While the interior materials varied by trim, higher trims provided a premium feel. The Altima's dimensions placed it in the middle of its class, with a decent-sized trunk and a large fuel tank. However, rear visibility was compromised by the high rear shelf and sloping roofline, and the trunk's metal bar supports required careful packing.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series offered a range of powertrain options, starting with the 530i's 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds, with a top speed limited to 210 km/h or 235 km/h with performance tires. The 540i featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, delivering 335 hp and 362 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds. The M550i xDrive boasted a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 with 523 hp, while the M5 offered 617 hp in Competition spec, reaching zero to 100 km/h in just 3.0 seconds. The 530e plug-in hybrid combined a 2.0-litre engine with an electric motor, producing 288 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, with an electric range of 31 km.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Altima in Canada came with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine generating 188 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. While the VC-Turbo engine was not available, the Altima offered standard all-wheel drive, a rarity in its class. The Xtronic CVT transmission provided smooth shifts, but acceleration was modest, accompanied by noticeable engine noise. Despite this, the Altima impressed with its composed ride and quiet cabin, thanks to Nissan's Active Ride Control. The suspension delivered a comfortable experience, and the Altima's road manners were commendable, offering a refined driving experience.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series, available as a four-door, five-seat sedan, offered spacious front seats and adequate rear-seat room. With a trunk capacity of 396 litres, it surpassed competitors like the Audi A6 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The rear bench featured a 40/20/20 split fold for added versatility. The test car's 16-way power front seats provided comfort and support, though forward visibility was hindered by the long hood. A surround-view camera system aided in parking maneuvers.

The 2022 Nissan Altima, a midsize sedan, provided comfortable seating for four to five passengers, with easy-to-use controls and a decent-sized trunk of 437 litres. While its dimensions placed it in the middle of its class, the Altima's high rear shelf and sloping roofline compromised rear visibility. The trunk's metal bar supports required careful packing to avoid damage. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Altima offered a practical and spacious interior for everyday use.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series featured a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with the iDrive 7 system and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Standard features included Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The rotary knob controller provided a tactile interface, while voice control and gesture controls offered alternative options. However, the layout of the instrument cluster could be confusing, with a power meter replacing the tachometer in non-sport modes.

The 2022 Nissan Altima came equipped with a 7-inch advanced drive-assist display and an 8-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system. Standard features included Bluetooth, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Siri Eyes Free, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trims offered navigation, remote engine start, and a Bose premium audio system. The Altima's tech suite included ProPilot Assist, which assisted with acceleration, steering, and braking tasks, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series received a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS for the 2020 model, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. Standard safety features included lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. The Driving Assistance Plus Package added adaptive cruise control, traffic-jam assist, and lane-keep assist, showcasing BMW's sophisticated driver-assist technology.

The 2022 Nissan Altima boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The NHTSA awarded the FWD version five stars for overall crash protection, while the IIHS gave the Altima a "Top Safety Pick+" designation. The Altima's crash avoidance and mitigation systems received high ratings, ensuring a safe driving experience.