When shopping for a new vehicle in 2025, both the Kia Niro and Nissan Altima stand out as strong contenders in their respective segments. The Kia Niro is a compact hybrid SUV, while the Nissan Altima is a midsize sedan known for its smooth ride and advanced technology. In this comparison, we’ll break down their key features to determine which one offers the best value for buyers.
Performance & Engine Options
2025 Kia Niro
Kia Niro is offered in hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and electric (EV) trim levels. The HEV uses a 1.6L 4-cylinder engine coupled with an electric motor to develop a combined 139 horsepower. The PHEV version has added efficiency through an all-electric range of approximately 33 miles before defaulting to hybrid mode. The EV model offers an estimated range of zzzzzzzzzz`253 miles on a full tank, making it an ideal option for environmentally friendly motorists.
2025 Nissan Altima
The 2025 Nissan Altima, a conventional gas-powered sedan, comes with two engine options: a base 2.5L 4-cylinder motor producing 188 horsepower and the more potent 2.0L VC-Turbo model that produces 248 horsepower. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration of the Altima offers greater handling and control in different weather conditions.
Winner
The Kia Niro has more powertrain versatility, while the Altima wins in horsepower and AWD availability. The decision is based on whether you want fuel efficiency or performance.
Fuel Economy & Efficiency
2025 Kia Niro
- Hybrid (HEV): 53 MPG city / 48 MPG highway
- Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): 108 MPGe (with electric range)
- Electric (EV): 253-mile range per charge
2025 Nissan Altima
- 2.5L Engine: 28 MPG city / 39 MPG highway
- 2.0L VC-Turbo: 25 MPG city / 34 MPG highway
Winner
The Kia Niro excels in fuel efficiency with its hybrid and electric versions, and therefore is the superior option for environmentally aware shoppers.
Interior & Technology
2025 Kia Niro
- 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Digital instrument cluster
- Premium Harman Kardon sound system available
- Sustainable materials incorporated in interior design
2025 Nissan Altima
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Bose premium sound system available
- Roomy interior with upscale leather upholstery
Winner
The Altima takes a small edge with a bigger touchscreen and more upscale interior trim, but the Niro’s sustainable-design approach is a bonus for environmentally aware consumers.
Safety & Driver-Assistance Features
2025 Kia Niro
- Standard Forward Collision Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping & Lane Following Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
2025 Nissan Altima
- Nissan Safety Shield 360
- ProPILOT Assist (semi-autonomous driving)
- Rear Automatic Braking
- Intelligent Around View Monitor
Winner
The Nissan Altima offers a little more sophisticated driver aid with ProPILOT Assist, so it’s the preference for highway travelers.
Cargo & Practicality
2025 Kia Niro
- Cargo Capacity: 22.8 cubic feet (rear seats up), 63.7 cubic feet (seats folded)
- Flexible cargo solutions provided by compact SUV design
2025 Nissan Altima
- Cargo Capacity: 15.4 cubic feet in trunk
- Sedan design constrains cargo versatility
Winner
The Kia Niro, due to its SUV body style, provides much greater cargo capacity and flexibility.
Price & Value
2025 Kia Niro
Starting Price: $27,000 (Hybrid) | $35,000 (EV)
2025 Nissan Altima
Starting Price: $26,500 (Base S Model) | $36,000 (VC-Turbo Model)
Winner
Both are terrific values, but the Niro’s hybrid efficiency could translate into lower long-term costs of ownership.
Final Verdict
If you want a fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly SUV with versatile cargo capacity, the 2025 Kia Niro is the better option. But if horsepower, high-end interior amenities, and sophisticated driver aid features are top priorities, then the 2025 Nissan Altima is your best bet.
Conclusion
The 2025 Kia Niro and 2025 Nissan Altima appeal to various buyers. If you are looking for sustainability, fuel economy, and SUV functionality, the Kia Niro is an excellent option. However, if you want a more powerful and tech-loaded sedan, the Nissan Altima will not fail to impress. In the end, the ideal car for you is based on your driving requirements and lifestyle choices.
FAQs
Which one is more fuel-efficient, the 2025 Nissan Altima or the 2025 Kia Niro?
The Kia Niro is far more fuel-efficient, particularly in its hybrid and EV models.
Is the 2025 Nissan Altima available in an electric or hybrid version?
No, the Nissan Altima comes with only gasoline engines.
Which vehicle features more advanced safety features?
They both have good safety suites, but the Nissan Altima’s ProPILOT Assist includes semi-autonomous driving capabilities.
Is the Kia Niro a good family car?
Yes, the Niro’s roomy interior, cargo versatility, and gas mileage make it a great family car.
Which car has a superior infotainment system?
The Nissan Altima features a bigger touchscreen, but both cars have comparable connectivity options.
