An unvarnished editorial breakdown between the CX-5 and Altima across safety benchmarks, 5-year ownership economics, and cabin comfort.
How these two vehicles split the segment, and the fundamental philosophical difference between them.
“CX-5 and Altima target slightly different buyer priorities while matching each other closely in total value. Choose CX-5 for individual equipment highlights or Altima for ownership discipline.”
Match your daily driving patterns, passenger habits, and ownership priorities to the right machine.
Stripping away marketing jargon: how these two vehicles perform across the 5 essential pillars of ownership.
200 mm
Plush suspension tuning that absorbs broken tarmac with minimal cabin bounce.
Firm & Responsive
Direct chassis feedback with controlled body roll on tight highway turns.
5-Star NHTSA / IIHS / Euro NCAP
8 airbags standard, high-strength structural cage.
5-Star NHTSA / IIHS / Euro NCAP
Standard electronic stability suite with multi-angle camera assistance.
Digital Panoramic Display
High-resolution dual displays with connected car telematics and voice control.
Smart Infotainment Suite
Intuitive physical-digital controls with wireless smartphone projection.
187 hp
185 lb-ft for effortless expressway cruising.
188 hp
Linear, smooth city power delivery with refined 4-cylinder rev characteristics.
28 mpg
Predictable scheduled maintenance and comprehensive warranty terms.
32 mpg
Lower cost per kilometer with widely available spare parts and high resale.
Beyond the showroom sticker price: fuel bills, scheduled service costs, insurance renewals, and resale value across 60,000 km.
The Altima delivers a lower-friction daily ownership experience, saving approximately ₹0.73 Lakh over 5 years in routine maintenance and fuel. While the CX-5 demands slightly higher upkeep, it pays you back in superior structural solidity, high-speed stability, and passenger fatigue reduction on long journeys.
Compare matching price brackets and sweet-spot trim packages side-by-side.
2.5L I4 • Automatic • 28 mpg
2.5L I4 • Automatic • 32 mpg
Side-by-side engineering data and equipment levels.
Direct, objective answers to the most common head-to-head questions asked by prospective buyers.
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