Ford Focus vs Nissan Altima
The Ford Focus is more fuel-efficient at 28 MPG combined, against 23 MPG for the Nissan Altima. At EPA assumptions that is about $500 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Ford Focus | Nissan Altima | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 1,198 | 1,321 |
| Most reported problem | Electrical system | Engine |
| Crashes and fires | 107 and 23 | 41 and 43 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 47,000 miles | 87,000 miles |
| Recalls | 1 | 5 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 28 MPG | 23 MPG |
| City and highway | 25 and 32 | 20 and 27 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,400 | $2,900 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,198 complaints for the Ford Focus and 1,321 for the Nissan Altima. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
Safety recalls on file: 1 for the Ford Focus, 5 for the Nissan Altima.