2013 Honda Accord vs. 2014 Mazda 6 vs. 2013 Nissan Altima Comparison Test

Edmunds.com

2013 Honda Accord vs. 2014 Mazda 6 vs. 2013 Nissan Altima Comparison Test

Edmunds' midsize sedan comparison between the 2013 Honda Accord, 2014 Mazda 6 and 2013 Nissan Altima. Includes instrumented test data, driving impressions, specs and photos.

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nissmazlover

So, all the haters are all up in arms about the Altima's stellar fuel economy showing here on Edmunds' comparison test. And, they're stating that this is the ONLY automotive test and/or comparison that shows the Altima getting such high fuel economy ratings. Well, here's what Consumer Reports says about the subject:

"The Driving Experience Powertrain: The most impressive part of the Altima is how well the two available engines balance performance and fuel economy. Most Altimas will come with a 2.5-liter, 182-hp four-cylinder that combines better-than-average acceleration with excellent fuel economy. Our tests measured 31 mpg overall and an amazing 44 mpg on the highway -- impressive for a non-hybrid, non-diesel family sedan. These numbers even eclipse the fuel economy of many smaller sedans. Most buyers will have little reason to opt for the more powerful 270-hp V6, but those who do choose it will find very quick acceleration and a very good 24 mpg overall. Both engines run on regular fuel."

So, there you have it. Edmunds was able to achieve 39.7mpg in the Altima and Consumer Reports was able to achieve an even HIGHER 44mpg, which is outright amazing for a non-hybrid/non-diesel engine. Give kudos where kudos are deserved.

marine70

we have a new altima, actually 2 for a total of 21000 miles . we love this car compared to the camerys, avalons, ad the hybrid hondas and hybrid camerys. the seats are very comfortable on trips and on a 500 mile beach trip averaged 37.8 mpg at 69 miles per hour. this car is roomy, comfortable, reliable and affordable at 23k. it is a best buy and one of many cars that are near perfection!!!!!!! contrast, 10bmws, 12 toyotas, and 1 mercedes e 320

09rich1

Ok. I have now driven two of the three. I took a pass on the Altima based on its ungainly looks...and because just about every automotive review (other than Edmunds) ranked it near the bottom of the back. Mazda 6 nice looking car (actually better looking in pictures than up close). Nice driving, taut handling, anemic/raspy souding engine (can really tell it's a 4 banger). Accord--also styled nicely, feels larger inside, drives almost as well, good sounding engine. Another option Ford Fusion: Drove one with the 1.6 (raspy, annoying, underpowered)--the 2.0 ecoboost is another story--pulls strong, nice interior, good looking car, mileage trails Mazda and Honda. Still pondering--is there anything else out there in this price range???

erichards

Still trying to figure out if Nissan is selling different Altimas in different parts of the country, or if I just got the rotten egg. While I have seen an indicated 39+ mpg on a few occasions, I have found the actual average mileage to be well below the advertised mpg (I've averaged just over 27 mpg in 21k miles of mixed driving). The highest mileage only occurs in nearly 100% highway driving, at 60-65 mph average speed, and plummets quickly as soon as stop lights or even moderately heavy traffic are encountered. Also, as I'm sure is the case with most cars, the indicated mpg is always 1-2 mpg higher than actual, measured mpg. That Edmunds was able to achieve 39+ mpg in the driving conditions they state baffles me.

Aside from the mileage, I have been very pleased with this car to this point. I have had one minor issue with the brake warning light coming on a few times, but upon inspection the fluid is full, and the light goes away after turning the car off. Not sure what that's all about, but I also haven't felt the need to take the car in to have it checked, since the problem is so infrequent, and I'm sure would be difficult to diagnose. Otherwise the car has been perfect in terms of reliability. It is comfortable, had adequate power, and good enough handling that you never feel like you are over-driving the car. For what I bought it for - a nice, comfortable, economical commuter car - it works perfectly. And if I'm in the mood to let my inner child loose, I can always hop in the Camaro