2022 Audi A4 vs 2023 Nissan Altima

The 2022 Audi A4 presented a clean and conservative design, serving as an ideal backdrop for its striking Tango Red paint and Black Edition package. The 19-inch five-arm rotor-design wheels added a touch of automotive elegance. Inside, the A4 maintained a restrained aesthetic with black interiors complemented by aluminum and metallic accents, ensuring it didn't feel overly dark. The dashboard seamlessly integrated air vents, and controls were clearly marked, enhancing usability. High-quality materials, a 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit, and ambient lighting contributed to a sophisticated cabin, though the tablet-style touchscreen seemed somewhat out of place.

In contrast, the 2023 Nissan Altima featured updated front styling and new wheel designs, enhancing its visual appeal, especially in higher trims with 19-inch wheels. However, these wheels appeared susceptible to damage. The interior, while comfortable, was marred by hard plastics, reminding occupants of its mainstream sedan status. The new simulated wood dashboard trim was unconvincing, but double-stitched seams added a touch of refinement. Despite these drawbacks, the Altima's interior was straightforward and user-friendly, with controls logically arranged and easy to read.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered two engine options: the 40 TFSI with 201 horsepower and the 45 TFSI with 261 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and Audi's Quattro Ultra AWD system. The 45 TFSI model, with its sport suspension, accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately 5.4 seconds, though it didn't feel as fast as claimed. Fuel economy for the 45 TFSI was rated at 8.8 L/100 km combined, but our test averaged 9.5 L/100 km. The A4's driving experience was engaging, with refined engine performance, responsive paddle shifters, and excellent braking. The car's structure and suspension provided a solid feel, and the cabin remained remarkably quiet.

The 2023 Nissan Altima, equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower, was paired with a CVT and standard AWD. The engine's torque peaked at 3,600 rpm, and the CVT mimicked a traditional automatic transmission. Fuel economy ratings were 9.3 L/100 km city, 6.7 highway, and 8.1 combined for higher trims, with our test averaging 8.6 L/100 km. The Altima's performance was adequate, but the ride was firm, and road noise was noticeable at highway speeds. In mountainous terrain, the Altima demonstrated good grip but lacked steering feedback, and the brakes showed signs of overheating.

The 2022 Audi A4's low seating position made entry and exit challenging, but once inside, the front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with power adjustments and a thigh-support cushion. The rear seats were less spacious, with limited legroom and hard plastic seatbacks. Interior storage was minimal, with the centre console bin occupied by a wireless charging pad. The A4's 340-litre cargo space was well-finished, with enclosed hinges and storage nets.

The 2023 Nissan Altima's interior was simple and user-friendly, with controls laid out logically. The Zero Gravity seats were comfortable, though the leather upholstery was sticky. The Altima featured dual-zone climate control, a power sunroof, and heated front seats. However, the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment, complicating entry and exit. Rear seat comfort was good, with ample legroom and headroom. Interior storage was reasonable, but the trunk, at 437 litres, was smaller than some competitors.

The 2022 Audi A4 featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with MIB3 technology, supporting smartphone functions and offering acoustic feedback. It included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The MMI was intuitive, with separate climate controls and a user-friendly interface. Voice recognition was accurate but slow, and the head-up display was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses.

The 2023 Nissan Altima came with an 8-inch touchscreen as standard, offering Bluetooth, wired Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and a Bose audio system. The new infotainment system was a significant improvement, with a better interface and graphics. Voice recognition performed well, though climate controls couldn't be adjusted via voice commands.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Audi Pre Sense, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. It received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA. The driver assistance tech was effective, though the adaptive cruise control occasionally required manual intervention.

The 2023 Nissan Altima included the Safety Shield 360 suite, with features like forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. ProPilot Assist added adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist on higher trims. The Altima received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though it scored poorly in the updated side-impact test.