2022 Nissan Altima vs 2023 Toyota Crown

The 2022 Nissan Altima had evolved significantly since its inception, with the sixth-generation model showcasing a sporty and sharp design. Available in three trims in Canada, the Altima featured Nissan's signature V-Motion grille, a low and wide stance, and a distinctive "floating" roofline. The SR Midnight Edition, which was tested, added a compelling black-out package with gloss black accents and 19-inch wheels, enhancing its sporty appeal. Inside, the Altima boasted comfortable Zero Gravity front seats and a well-organized instrument panel, though the quality varied across trims.

The 2023 Toyota Crown, a full-size sedan, stood out with its elevated ride height and distinctive styling. Its massive grille, angular headlights, and bold taillight strip gave it a sporty edge. The Crown's interior was modern, featuring a digital instrument panel and a large touchscreen. While the cabin had a mix of hard plastics and cushioned touchpoints, it offered a spacious feel, especially with the available panoramic sunroof. The Crown's design was bold, with a two-tone colour option on the Platinum trim, appealing to those seeking a unique look.

The 2022 Nissan Altima in Canada came with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 188 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque, paired with a CVT and standard all-wheel drive. While acceleration was mediocre, the Altima impressed with its smooth ride and quiet cabin, thanks to Nissan's Active Ride Control. The SR trim included paddle shifters, though they seemed unnecessary for a midsize sedan.

The 2023 Toyota Crown offered two hybrid powertrains: a base 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 236 horsepower and a Platinum trim with a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine producing 340 horsepower. The base hybrid used a CVT, while the Hybrid Max had a six-speed automatic. The Crown's ride was comfortable, with the Platinum trim adding an adaptive suspension. Despite some engine noise, the cabin remained quiet, and the Crown's performance was adequate for most drivers.

The 2022 Nissan Altima provided comfortable seating for four, with a decent-sized trunk of 437 litres. Its dimensions were average among competitors, and while it had a large fuel tank, rear visibility was compromised by a high rear shelf and sloping roofline. The trunk's metal bar supports required careful packing to avoid crushing items.

The 2023 Toyota Crown's interior featured fabric or leather upholstery, with comfortable front seats and ample rear legroom. The centre console offered convenient storage, and the wireless charging pad was a practical addition. The Crown's trunk, at 360 litres, was smaller than expected for its size, but the wide opening and remote seatback releases added utility.

The 2022 Nissan Altima came with a 7-inch drive-assist display and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. Higher trims included navigation, a Bose audio system, and Nissan's ProPilot Assist for driver assistance. The tech worked seamlessly, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Toyota Crown featured a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system supported OTA updates and voice recognition, while a digital key feature was available on the Platinum trim. The base audio system was adequate, with an optional JBL system for audiophiles.

The 2022 Nissan Altima was equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. It received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, earning a "Top Safety Pick+" designation.

The 2023 Toyota Crown's safety features included collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist, part of the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite. While crash test results were pending, the Crown's safety tech was well-tuned, though some features were intrusive.