Sedan sales may be shrinking, but models such as the 2026 Nissan Altima and 2026 Honda Accord are both practical and compelling alternatives to bloated SUVs. Both models combine sporty styling with enough room to fit a small family.
Here’s a closer look at what the Altima and Accord have to offer.
2026 Nissan Altima
The 2026 Nissan Altima offers two trim levels (and two Special Edition models) and comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Let’s take a closer look at the more feature-packed SR trim.
Nissan Altima Highlights
What‘s new: Nissan introduced several welcome updates for the 2026 Altima, including an available 12.3-inch infotainment display, a wireless charging pad, and up to four USB ports. For drivers looking to add a sportier edge, the SR Midnight Edition stands out with its blacked-out exterior accents and black 19-inch alloy wheels. The look is further enhanced with new two-tone color options, each paired with a black roof.
Performance: The Altima features the familiar 2.5-liter direct-injection engine, producing up to 188 horsepower and delivering an EPA-estimated 31 mpg combined, depending on configuration (2025 rating; the 2026 model had not been certified at press time). Front-wheel drive (FWD) comes standard, and, unlike the Accord, all-wheel drive (AWD) is available for $1,500. Opting for the SR trim adds a sport-tuned suspension, sport seats, and paddle shifters for a more engaging drive.
Safety: The 2026 Altima continues Nissan’s focus on safety, with both SV and SR trims featuring Safety Shield 360. This suite includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear automatic braking. The SR adds a surround-view camera system for easier parking, while both trims also come standard with ProPILOT Assist, which includes adaptive cruise control and lane‑keeping assist.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Altima models near you.
2026 Honda Accord
The 2026 Honda Accord hasn’t changed significantly since 2025. Like the Altima, there are only two trim options, but the big difference with the Accord is it can be had as a hybrid with four trim levels. We review the 2026 Honda Accord Hybrid separately. Let’s find out why the Accord is one of the top-selling sedans.
Honda Accord Highlights
Driving experience: The Accord has been a standout for Honda for decades for a reason. Powered by a 192-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), with a fine-tuned suspension for a smooth ride. Honda doesn’t offer all-wheel drive on either the gas or hybrid models.
Inside: The Accord’s interior feels more bougie than most in this segment, thanks to its stylish materials, comfortable seats, and ample space. The back passengers won’t feel cramped with a class-leading 40.8 inches of legroom. That is at least 5 inches more than the Altima (35.2 inches). For 2026, Honda upgraded the Accord’s infotainment touchscreen from 7 to 9 inches, and a wireless charging pad as well as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also standard.
Hybrid option: If you are looking for a hybrid option, the Accord has you covered. It offers all the amenities of the gas-only Accord, but adds a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. You can check out our full review here.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Accord models near you.
Similarities
The Nissan Altima and Honda Accord are well-equipped midsize sedans with entry prices around $30,000, including the mandatory delivery fee.
Pricing
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2026 Nissan Altima vehicles and New 2026 Honda Accord vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
Specifications
| 2026 Nissan Altima | 2026 Honda Accord | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder | 1.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 188 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 192 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 180 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm | 192 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm |
| Transmission | Automatic, Xtronic CVT | Automatic, CVT |
| Fuel Economy | N/A | N/A |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5 stars | Not rated |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 111.2 inches | 111.4 inches |
| Overall Length | 192.9 inches | 195.7 inches |
| Width | N/A | 73.3 inches |
| Height | 56.8 inches | 57.1 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 37.4 feet | 38.4 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 39.1 inches | 39.5 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 36.9 inches | 37.3 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 43.8 inches | 42.3 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 35.2 inches | 40.8 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 58.2 inches | 57.9 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 57.1 inches | 56.5 inches |
| Cargo capacity | 15.4 cubic feet | 16.7 cubic feet |
Specification table reflects the typical configuration of vehicles shown.
Conclusion
The Nissan Altima and Honda Accord are both compelling alternatives to an SUV. Choose the Altima if you want all-wheel drive, and the Honda if you are looking for a hybrid. The base Accord comes better equipped but it’s also priced about $900 more than the base Altima.
