Chevrolet Cruze vs. Nissan Altima

iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the Chevrolet Cruze and Nissan Altima contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the Chevrolet Cruze and the Nissan Altima.

When we compare the Chevrolet Cruze's and the Nissan Altima's specifications and ratings, the Chevrolet Cruze has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, and resale value. The Nissan Altima has the advantage in the areas of interior volume and base engine power. The Chevrolet Cruze and Nissan Altima have the same fuel efficiency. Based on this comparison of the Chevrolet Cruze's and the Nissan Altima's specifications and ratings, the two cars are fairly comparable.

Pricing: A used 2019 Chevrolet Cruze ranges from $9,993 to $18,995 while a used 2019 Nissan Altima is priced between $13,492 to $22,998.

Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the Chevrolet Cruze loses 40 percent of its value and the Nissan Altima loses 46 percent of its value. This means the Chevrolet Cruze retains 6 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the Nissan Altima.

Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the Chevrolet Cruze’s base engine makes 153 horsepower, and the Nissan Altima base engine makes 188 horsepower. Both the Cruze and the Altima are rated to deliver an average of 32 miles per gallon, with highway ranges of 521 and 632 miles respectively. Both models use regular unleaded.

Passenger Space Comparison: The Nissan Altima, a midsize car, has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front head room, front shoulder room, front leg room, rear shoulder room, and cargo space. The Chevrolet Cruze, a compact car, has the advantage in the areas of rear head room and rear leg room.

Safety Ratings: When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, the Nissan Altima has higher safety ratings than the Chevrolet Cruze, with an average rating of 5 out of 5 Stars compared to 4.51 out of 5 Stars.