2023 Nissan Altima vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class presented a sophisticated exterior design that borrowed elements from other Mercedes models, creating a cohesive and stylish sedan. The front end featured a droop reminiscent of the CLA-Class, while the squared-off rear and thin taillights echoed the S-Class. The cab-rearward proportions, with a long hood and short rear deck, emphasized its rear-wheel-drive platform, distinguishing it from the front-wheel-drive CLA-Class and A-Class. Standard LED headlights and taillights could be upgraded to the Mercedes Digital Light system, which adjusted to curves and projected warning icons. Inside, the C-Class aimed to emulate the luxury of the S-Class with features like a freestanding touchscreen, intricate speaker grilles, and ambient lighting with 64 colours. Despite its luxury billing, the standard MBTex synthetic leather upholstery was typical for its price range, with Nappa leather seats available.

The 2023 Nissan Altima, with its updated front styling and new wheel designs, aimed to maintain its presence in the family car segment. The higher trim levels, featuring 19-inch wheels, enhanced its visual appeal, though the wheels were prone to damage. In Canada, the Altima offered four trims, with standard all-wheel drive, a unique feature in the mid-size sedan market. However, the variable-compression turbocharged engine was exclusive to the U.S. market. The interior, while appealing, had hard plastic elements that reminded drivers of its mainstream status. The new simulated wood dashboard trim and double-stitched seams added a touch of sophistication, but the overall feel remained utilitarian.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C300 was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, which could provide an additional 20 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. The C300 could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h. The sportier Mercedes-AMG C43 variant offered 402 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, reducing the zero to 100 km/h time to 4.5 seconds and increasing the top speed to 250 km/h. Despite its power, the C300 experienced turbo lag and occasional rough shifts. The ride quality was luxurious, with muted impacts from bumps, though some juddering and vibration were noted. The C-Class demonstrated good body control and precise steering on twisty roads, though it required deliberate effort to navigate corners.

The 2023 Nissan Altima in Canada featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), producing 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. The standard all-wheel-drive system could deliver up to half of the engine’s output to the rear wheels. The CVT was programmed to mimic a traditional automatic transmission, with paddle shifters available for added driver engagement. Fuel economy ratings were 9.1 L/100 km in the city, 6.5 on the highway, and 7.9 combined for the base trim. The Altima’s performance was adequate, though the ride was firm, and road noise was noticeable at highway speeds. Rear visibility was poor, necessitating reliance on the reversing camera and rear cross-traffic alert system. In mountainous terrain, the Altima displayed good grip and flat cornering, but the steering felt lifeless, and the brakes heated up easily.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, available only as a sedan, was longer and wider than its predecessor, offering increased interior space. Front headroom increased by 2.5 mm, and rear-seat legroom by 20 mm, leading its competitive set in these areas. The seats were comfortable, with enough bolstering for spirited driving, though thick rear pillars created blind spots. The trunk offered 455 litres of space, with a wide opening for easy loading and a 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench for longer items.

The 2023 Nissan Altima’s interior was simple and comfortable, with controls laid out logically. The Zero Gravity seats were exceptionally comfortable, though the sticky leather upholstery could hinder entry and exit. The Altima featured dual-zone automatic climate control, a power sunroof, heated front seats, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. However, the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment, making entry and exit more challenging. Interior storage was reasonable, though the floor mats were difficult to release without damaging the carpet. The trunk offered 437 litres of cargo space, smaller than some competitors, but usefully shaped.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class featured an infotainment system inspired by the S-Class, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch touchscreen angled toward the driver. Standard features included keyless entry, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The MBUX infotainment system offered a “Zero Layer” setup, displaying multiple items on the screen simultaneously. The voice recognition system was highly effective, and the optional augmented-reality navigation system provided clear guidance for turns.

The 2023 Nissan Altima came with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including Bluetooth, wired Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A new 12.3-inch touchscreen was available with SR Premium and Platinum trims, offering a navigation system, wireless Apple CarPlay, and a wireless smartphone charging pad. The Bose nine-speaker premium audio system was available with higher trims, though its performance varied. The new infotainment system represented a significant improvement, with a superior user interface and graphics.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It featured an array of advanced driver-assistance systems, including automatic emergency brake assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a driver-attention monitor. Optional features included lane-keep assist, a 360-degree camera system, and adaptive cruise control. The C-Class also offered Car-to-X communication, providing warnings based on information shared between vehicles.

The 2023 Nissan Altima came with the Nissan Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. ProPilot Assist, available with SR Premium and Platinum trims, added adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The Altima received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though it received a Poor rating in the updated side-impact test.