2021 Honda Civic vs 2022 Nissan Altima

The 2021 Honda Civic, with its long history of segment-defining models, continued to impress with its 10th-generation design. This model, available in sedan, hatchback, and the performance-oriented Type R, was known for its polarizing styling that either captivated or repelled onlookers. The Touring trim, in particular, stood out with its Cosmic Blue Metallic paint and 18-inch wheels, offering a blend of elegance and sportiness. Inside, the Civic's cabin, though showing signs of age, maintained its reputation for quality materials and thoughtful design. The infotainment system, however, lagged behind with a maximum screen size of 7 inches, reflecting the car's age in the rapidly evolving tech landscape.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Altima embraced a sportier aesthetic with its sixth-generation design, highlighted by the V-Motion grille and a low, wide stance. The SR Midnight Edition, with its gloss black accents and 19-inch wheels, elevated the Altima's sporty appeal. Inside, the Altima offered a premium feel with high-quality materials and comfortable Zero Gravity seats. While the Altima's dimensions placed it in the middle of its class, its trunk space was slightly smaller than some competitors. The high rear shelf and sloping roofline posed visibility challenges, but the overall design and comfort made it a competent choice for families and commuters alike.

The 2021 Honda Civic offered a choice between a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and a more desirable turbocharged 1.5-litre engine delivering 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. The latter, standard on the Touring trim, provided a spirited driving experience, complemented by a sophisticated suspension and precise steering. However, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) was a point of contention, with its droning nature and ineffective paddle shifters detracting from the overall driving pleasure. Despite this, the Civic excelled in fuel efficiency, achieving an average of 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres, surpassing official estimates.

The 2022 Nissan Altima, equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine generating 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, offered standard all-wheel drive, a rarity in its class. While the engine's performance was underwhelming, the Altima's suspension and road manners impressed, providing a smooth and quiet ride. The Xtronic CVT, though not particularly engaging, contributed to the car's refined driving experience. The Altima's AWD system added a layer of confidence, especially in adverse weather conditions, making it a practical choice for Canadian drivers.

The 2021 Honda Civic sedan, despite its low seating position, offered a spacious interior akin to a decade-old midsize car. The front seats provided ample comfort, with eight-way power adjustment for the driver, though the lack of rear air vents was a drawback. The centre console was a highlight, offering exceptional storage solutions. The Civic's trunk, measuring 428 litres, was generous for its class, though the Touring trim's premium sound system reduced it slightly to 416 litres.

The 2022 Nissan Altima, as a midsize sedan, provided comfortable seating for four adults, with a back seat accessible for short distances. Its trunk, at 437 litres, was competitive, though not class-leading. The Altima's high rear shelf and sloping roofline compromised rear visibility, but the rear camera mitigated this issue. The trunk's metal bar supports required careful packing to avoid crushing items, a minor inconvenience in an otherwise practical design.

The 2021 Honda Civic's technology offerings were modest, with a standard 5-inch LCD screen and basic connectivity features. The Touring trim upgraded to a 7-inch touchscreen with a 10-speaker audio system, HD Radio, and SiriusXM. While the voice recognition system was unsophisticated, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided familiar interfaces for navigation and media.

The 2022 Nissan Altima boasted a more comprehensive tech suite, with a 7-inch advanced drive-assist display and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Standard features included Bluetooth, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM. Higher trims offered navigation, remote engine start, and a nine-speaker Bose audio system. The Altima's ProPilot Assist system enhanced driving convenience, assisting with acceleration, steering, and braking under certain conditions.

The 2021 Honda Civic came equipped with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. While effective, the system's abruptness could be unsettling. The Civic earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, providing peace of mind for safety-conscious buyers.

The 2022 Nissan Altima featured a robust array of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Altima received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, with the latter awarding it a "Top Safety Pick+" designation. The Altima's comprehensive safety suite and high ratings made it a compelling choice for safety-minded consumers.