2021 Nissan Altima vs 2022 Audi A4

The 2021 Nissan Altima presented a strong family identity with its bold V-Motion grille, available in chrome or dark chrome, and adorned with the Nissan logo. Its sleek, aerodynamic profile was enhanced by a sloping “coupe-like” roofline, though the short dash-to-axle distance and extended overhangs gave it a slightly old-fashioned appearance. Despite this, modern features like LED lighting and alloy wheels kept its look contemporary. The Altima boasted exceptional fit and finish, with deep lustrous paint and rich chrome details, available in six exterior colours with creative names. Inside, the dashboard was uncluttered, featuring a standard 8-inch touchscreen display, and the interior materials improved with higher trim levels.

In contrast, the 2022 Audi A4 was simple, clean, and conservative in appearance, serving as a perfect canvas for its striking Tango Red paint and Black Edition package. The A4's interior mirrored this aesthetic restraint, with high-quality materials and a 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation panel. The dashboard integrated air vents seamlessly, and controls were clearly labeled. The infotainment system, though appearing like an afterthought, was functional and easy to use. The A4's interior was characterized by its aesthetic simplicity and intuitive layout, making it a comfortable and stylish choice.

The 2021 Nissan Altima was equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, paired with Nissan’s Xtronic CVT. It featured standard all-wheel drive, capable of distributing up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels. Fuel consumption ratings were 9.1 L/100 km city, 6.5 highway, and 7.9 combined for the base model. The Altima's suspension setup included four-wheel independent suspension with stabilizer bars, providing decent feedback and feel.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine in its 40 TFSI model, generating 201 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque, with a seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. The 45 TFSI model increased power to 261 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 100 km/h in approximately 5.4 seconds. Both engines required premium gas and featured Audi’s Quattro Ultra AWD system. The A4's driving experience was enhanced by paddle shifters, a refined engine, and a solid suspension, making it a dynamically rewarding vehicle.

The 2021 Nissan Altima featured Nissan’s Zero Gravity front seats, praised for their comfort on long drives. The front cabin offered ample storage, including a large glovebox, centre console storage bin, and door pockets. The rear seats provided sufficient headroom and legroom for two adults, with a 60/40 split-folding design for trunk access. The trunk offered 436 litres of cargo space.

The 2022 Audi A4, while comfortable once inside, was challenging to enter and exit due to its low stance and small door openings. The front seats offered power adjustment and a perfect driving position, while the rear seats were snug with limited legroom. Interior storage was limited, with the centre console bin housing the wireless charging pad. The A4's cargo space was 340 litres, with enclosed hinges and storage nets for convenience.

The 2021 Nissan Altima came standard with keyless entry, pushbutton start, remote engine start, Bluetooth, and an 8-inch NissanConnect touchscreen infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a 7-inch advanced Drive-Assist display. Higher trims included a Bose audio system and Nissan Door to Door Navigation.

The 2022 Audi A4 featured the MIB3 version of Audi Multi-Media Interface with a 10.1-inch touchscreen. It supported smartphone functions and included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bang & Olufsen premium audio system. The MMI was intuitive, with separate climate controls and useful voice recognition technology.

The 2021 Nissan Altima included Nissan Safety Shield 360, offering features like automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot warning. ProPilot Assist was available on the Platinum grade, enhancing highway driving safety. The Altima received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS.

The 2022 Audi A4 Technik model included Audi Pre Sense with collision preparation, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Matrix-design LED headlights. The A4 also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA.