Nissan Altima vs Hyundai Elantra Hybrid

Compared to midsize sedans, compact crossover SUVs offer more interior room, a taller driving position, easier entry and exit, and more models offer all-wheel drive (AWD). Their extra ground clearance helps you through snow or to scramble down a trail, too. They literally leave sedans in the dust, though they’re usually more expensive, get worse fuel economy, and handle less securely. Nevertheless, Nissan adds a 2025 Altima SR Premium trim to the Canadian lineup to drum up interest in its fading family car.

Verdict: Is the 2025 Nissan Altima a good car? It has terrific front seats, standard AWD in Canada, and a competitively priced trim walk. Otherwise, it simply doesn’t have what it takes to attract customers better served by other midsize cars.

The Hyundai Elantra Hybrid is a stylish outlier among fuel-efficient sedans, and it’s also accessibly priced. But unfortunately, it's not very appealing to drive. Power and acceleration are on the weak side — even among other hybrids — while inconsistent power surges make it feel as though it's a few generations behind the rest of the class.

Verdict: The Elantra Hybrid is a great value, but its unrefined hybrid powertrain and cheap-feeling interior have it following, rather than leading, the class.