Nissan Altima vs Hyundai Sonata 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.

It’s easy to discount the value of a family sedan with so many crossovers on the road. But the fact is that this body style makes a lot of sense for a lot of families. The more manageable and maneuverable the vehicle, the better for teaching budding young drivers. Lighter weight also translates to better fuel economy, not to be sneered at when there are mouths to feed and tuitions to pay. And your typical midsize sedan is plenty spacious for four.

Fortunately, automakers have not forgotten about the venerable family sedan, keeping one another on their toes with updates, and it’s consumers who stand to benefit from that sort of healthy competition. Now, it’s the 2024 Hyundai Sonata’s turn for a mid-generation refresh.

Verdict: We already liked the Sonata, and this refresh only improves it. The styling update and generous standard feature set make it a compelling choice.