Hyundai Sonata vs Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima is more fuel-efficient at 31 MPG combined, against 27 MPG for the Hyundai Sonata. At EPA assumptions that is about $350 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Hyundai Sonata | Nissan Altima | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 2,668 | 2,986 |
| Most reported problem | Engine | Air bags |
| Crashes and fires | 141 and 164 | 104 and 19 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 79,000 miles | 62,000 miles |
| Recalls | 9 | 12 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 27 MPG | 31 MPG |
| City and highway | 24 and 34 | 27 and 38 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,500 | $2,150 |
| NHTSA overall safety |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 2,668 complaints for the Hyundai Sonata and 2,986 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.
NHTSA's overall safety ratings: 5 stars for the Hyundai Sonata, 5 stars for the Nissan Altima.
Safety recalls on file: 9 for the Hyundai Sonata, 12 for the Nissan Altima.