If you’ve been intrigued by the fuel savings and advanced technology of a hybrid, but find a lack of styling in other hybrid offerings, then the Nissan Altima Hybrid might be the hybrid that puts you behind the wheel of a gas-electric vehicle.
The Altima carries a 2.5-liter engine versus the Camry’s 2.4-liter version, but the relative difference in performance between the vehicles is mostly a product of software. Nissan engineers inherited Toyota’s computer control system, but didn’t leave it entirely alone. Toyota opted for calm and comfort, the signature qualities of the Camry, while Nissan allowed a little more noise and rumble in exchange for more power in passing.
The Altima Hybrid is noticeably more responsive than the Camry Hybrid. If the extra pep is essential to you, and you’re willing to sacrifice the ultra-quiet (some may call it “numb”) ride of the Camry, then your decision is made.
