2025 Nissan Altima vs. 2025 Nissan LEAF: Specs & Features Comparison

When deciding between the 2025 Nissan Altima and the 2025 Nissan LEAF, drivers need to weigh key factors like performance, fuel efficiency, interior features, and overall driving experience. While both models represent the latest in Nissan innovation, they cater to different needs. The Altima is a versatile sedan with impressive performance and technology, while the LEAF is an all-electric vehicle focused on sustainability and eco-friendly driving. Let’s dive into the details to help you determine which Nissan model suits your lifestyle best.

Power and Performance Comparison: 2025 Nissan Altima vs. 2025 Nissan LEAF

Power & Performance Analysis

The 2025 Nissan Altima offers two powerful engine options: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder producing 188 horsepower for a smooth and efficient ride, and an available 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 248 horsepower for a more performance-oriented experience. The Altima offers the option of all-wheel drive (AWD) for added traction and control in varying road conditions, making it an excellent choice for drivers in diverse climates.

On the other hand, the 2025 Nissan LEAF is a fully electric vehicle with two powertrain options. The base LEAF S offers 147 horsepower, while the upgraded LEAF Plus delivers a more robust 214 horsepower. With instant torque and smooth acceleration, the LEAF provides a quiet, responsive driving experience. However, it’s worth noting that the LEAF’s range of 149-226 miles (depending on trim) makes it best suited for daily commutes and eco-conscious drivers.

Recommendation

If you’re looking for traditional gasoline power with AWD capability and a choice between performance or fuel efficiency, the Altima is your best bet. But, if you’re committed to an electric lifestyle with a focus on sustainability and city-friendly range, the LEAF is a standout choice.

Interior Features and Technology Comparison: 2025 Nissan Altima vs. 2025 Nissan LEAF

Interior and Technology Analysis

Both the Altima and LEAF offer modern, user-friendly technology to enhance your driving experience. The Altima comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, with the option to upgrade to a 12.3-inch digital dashboard on higher trims, offering a larger, customizable display. The available Bose® Premium Audio System adds exceptional sound quality to your drive, and the NissanConnect® system ensures seamless integration with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.

The 2025 Nissan LEAF has a more compact interior but still offers modern infotainment features, including the 8-inch touchscreen and Bose® Premium Audio on higher trims. The LEAF’s cabin focuses more on eco-friendly materials, making it ideal for those who prioritize sustainability. However, the LEAF lacks the Altima’s larger display options and dual-zone climate control, offering a more basic but still comfortable tech package.

Recommendation

If you’re after a more luxurious, tech-forward interior with a focus on premium materials and larger displays, the Altima takes the lead. But if eco-conscious materials and a simpler, functional tech setup are your priority, the LEAF excels in offering a more sustainable, compact experience.

J.D. Power Quality and Reliability Ratings and IIHS Safety Ratings: 2025 Nissan Altima vs. 2025 Nissan LEAF

Quality and Reliability Analysis

Both the 2025 Nissan Altima and the 2025 Nissan LEAF offer strong reliability and quality scores. The Altima receives a solid 85 rating from J.D. Power, indicating excellent build quality and dependability. The LEAF follows closely with an 83 rating, making it another highly reliable choice for drivers looking for a long-lasting vehicle. Both vehicles benefit from Nissan’s reputation for reliability, ensuring that owners can expect fewer issues over time.

Safety Ratings

Both the Altima and LEAF have earned the prestigious Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This rating reflects the highest level of safety performance in crash tests and active safety features. Both models offer a comprehensive suite of standard and available safety features, including Nissan Safety Shield® 360, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Blind Spot Warning, which help prevent accidents and protect you in case one occurs.

Recommendation

In terms of both quality and reliability, and safety, the 2025 Altima and 2025 LEAF are both excellent choices. The Altima edges ahead slightly in quality and reliability with its 85 score, but the LEAF remains a strong contender with 83. As for safety, both vehicles shine equally, making them safe, dependable, and highly rated choices for any driver.

Test Drive the 2025 Nissan Altima and the 2025 Nissan LEAF at Annapolis Nissan! 

In conclusion, the 2025 Nissan Altima and 2025 Nissan LEAF offer different advantages depending on your driving needs. If you prefer a traditional sedan with excellent fuel economy, performance options, and a comfortable interior, the Altima is the perfect choice. However, if you're ready to embrace a fully electric driving experience with eco-friendly features and impressive technology, the LEAF will be a great fit. Contact Annapolis Nissan today to schedule a test drive and see which Nissan vehicle is right for you!

Frequently Asked Questions: 2025 Nissan Altima vs. 2025 Nissan LEAF

What are the different trim levels available for the 2025 Nissan Altima and 2025 Nissan LEAF?

• 2025 Nissan Altima: The 2025 Altima is available in several trims, including the S, SV, SR, SR VC-Turbo, and Platinum. Each trim offers different features, including performance upgrades, interior luxuries, and advanced technology.
• 2025 Nissan LEAF: The LEAF comes in two trims: S and SV Plus. The LEAF is available with two battery options: the 40 kWh battery in the S trim and a larger 62 kWh battery in the SV Plus trim, providing a longer driving range.

How does the fuel economy of the Altima compare to the LEAF?

• 2025 Nissan Altima: The Altima delivers impressive fuel efficiency with 28 MPG city/39 MPG highway for the standard gas-powered versions, and the Altima VC-Turbo offers even better efficiency with 25 MPG city/34 MPG highway.
• 2025 Nissan LEAF: As an electric vehicle, the LEAF does not use traditional fuel. It offers an EPA-estimated range of up to 149 miles on the 40 kWh battery (in the S trim) and up to 226 miles on the larger 62 kWh battery (in the SV Plus trim). For efficiency, the LEAF boasts an impressive 123 MPGe city/99 MPGe highway.

Which vehicle is better for families?

• 2025 Nissan Altima: With its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and large trunk space, the Altima is an excellent family sedan. It comfortably seats five and provides plenty of cargo space in the trunk (15.4 cubic feet).
• 2025 Nissan LEAF: The LEAF, while a compact car, can still accommodate families, though it’s more suited for smaller households or those seeking an eco-friendly option for city driving. It seats five passengers and offers 23.6 cubic feet of cargo space, which is relatively spacious for a hatchback.

Which car has better technology features?

• 2025 Nissan Altima: The Altima is packed with advanced tech features, including a standard 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and NissanConnect®. Higher trims offer a 9-inch touchscreen, a Bose® Premium Audio system, and available ProPILOT Assist for enhanced driver assistance.
• 2025 Nissan LEAF: The LEAF offers similar tech with a standard 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, and NissanConnect®. Higher trims (like the SV Plus) offer additional features, such as Nissan Navigation, and ProPILOT Assist for semi-autonomous driving.

What is the towing capacity of the Altima vs. the LEAF?

• 2025 Nissan Altima: The Altima is not designed for heavy towing, but it can tow up to 1,000 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it suitable for light-duty towing tasks like small trailers or recreational equipment.
• 2025 Nissan LEAF: The LEAF is an electric vehicle and is not rated for towing, so it's best used for everyday commuting and light cargo.

Which car has better performance?

• 2025 Nissan Altima: The Altima offers a balanced blend of performance and comfort. The base 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine generates 188 horsepower, while the VC-Turbo variant features a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 248 horsepower for a more dynamic driving experience.
• 2025 Nissan LEAF: The LEAF offers a fully electric drivetrain with an efficient motor. The base S trim delivers 147 horsepower, while the SV Plus features a more powerful motor with 214 horsepower. While the LEAF offers smooth, instant torque, it’s more focused on efficiency rather than outright performance compared to the Altima.

Which vehicle has better electric driving range?

• 2025 Nissan Altima: The Altima is a gas-powered vehicle and doesn't rely on electric range. It offers excellent fuel efficiency, making it ideal for long-distance driving.
• 2025 Nissan LEAF: The LEAF excels in electric range, with up to 149 miles on the S trim and 226 miles on the SV Plus trim. This makes the LEAF an ideal option for those seeking a sustainable, all-electric driving experience.

Which model offers the best value?

• 2025 Nissan Altima: The Altima provides strong value, especially in terms of its performance, fuel efficiency, and available technology at competitive pricing. It offers a premium sedan experience with a wide range of trims to fit various budgets.
• 2025 Nissan LEAF: The LEAF offers significant value for buyers seeking an eco-friendly vehicle with zero-emissions and a lower total cost of ownership. The LEAF’s lower maintenance costs and available government incentives for electric vehicles make it an excellent value for eco-conscious drivers.

Which vehicle is better for city driving?

• 2025 Nissan Altima: The Altima offers good agility for city driving, with a smooth ride, efficient engine, and modern safety features. It is well-suited for urban environments, though it’s slightly larger than the LEAF.
• 2025 Nissan LEAF: The LEAF is more compact and better suited for city driving. Its smaller size makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces, and its electric powertrain provides a quiet, smooth ride ideal for urban commuting.

Which vehicle has better eco-friendly features?

• 2025 Nissan Altima: While the Altima offers strong fuel efficiency for a gas-powered sedan, it does not have the same environmental benefits as the LEAF.

2025 Nissan LEAF: The LEAF, as an electric vehicle, is the clear winner in terms of eco-friendly features. It produces zero emissions, making it the ideal choice for environmentally-conscious drivers.