Nissan Altima vs Volkswagen Jetta
The Volkswagen Jetta is more fuel-efficient at 32 MPG combined, against 26 MPG for the Nissan Altima. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Nissan Altima | Volkswagen Jetta | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 2,150 | 1,277 |
| Most reported problem | Steering | Fuel system |
| Crashes and fires | 55 and 15 | 53 and 10 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 78,000 miles | 67,000 miles |
| Recalls | 4 | 6 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 26 MPG | 32 MPG |
| City and highway | 23 and 32 | 29 and 37 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,600 | $3,000 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 2,150 complaints for the Nissan Altima and 1,277 for the Volkswagen Jetta. 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: 4 for the Nissan Altima, 6 for the Volkswagen Jetta.