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) | 1,088 | 1,397 |
| Most reported problem | Engine | Lighting |
| Crashes and fires | 48 and 62 | 74 and 11 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 70,000 miles | 63,000 miles |
| Recalls | 7 | 8 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 27 MPG | 31 MPG |
| City and highway | 24 and 34 | 27 and 37 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,500 | $2,150 |
| NHTSA overall safety |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 1,088 complaints for the Hyundai Sonata and 1,397 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: 7 for the Hyundai Sonata, 8 for the Nissan Altima.