Hyundai Sonata vs Nissan Altima: Which Should You Buy in Bahrain?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Hyundai Sonata⁩ VS ⁦Nissan Altima⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across Bahrain.

⁦Hyundai Sonata⁩ VS ⁦Nissan Altima⁩: the verdict

The Hyundai Sonata emerges as the stronger contender overall for buyers in Bahrain, offering a more attractive starting price and superior fuel efficiency. However, the Nissan Altima provides a compelling argument for those prioritizing cargo capacity and marginally quicker acceleration.
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Price Comparison
Starting at10,750 – 14,000 BHD11,995 – 14,995 BHD
Engine & Power
Engine2,500 cc · 4 cyl2,500 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)191 hp188 hp
Torque (Nm)245 Nm244 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)8.2 – 8.7 s8 s
Top Speed (Km/h)220 km/h220 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)6 L/100km6.3 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity56 – 60 L61.3 L
Gears8—
TransmissionAutomaticCVT
Drive TypeFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.9 m × 1.9 m × 1.4 m4.9 / 5.0 m × 1.8 / 1.9 m × 1.4 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.8 m2.8 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,498 kg1,430 – 1,499.7 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)453 L517 L
Overview
Body StyleSedanSedan
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 doors
Features
Key features
360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive HeadrestsActive SteeringAirbagsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesClimate ControlCollision DetectionDisc BrakesDrive ComputerDynamic Stability ControlElectric Door MirrorsFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFront BrakesFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberHDMIImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsLED Fog LightsMulti-Information DisplayOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPush Button StartRadioRear BrakesSeatbelt pretensionerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTiptronic GearsTouchscreenTraction ControlWheels - AlloyWinchWireless Headphones
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)AirbagsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBody Colored Bumper - Front and RearBody Colored MirrorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCompassCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Handles - Body ColoredDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFabric SeatsFog Lamps - Front OnlyFoldable Rear SeatsFront Seat ArmrestHalogen HeadlampsHigh Mount Stop LampImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelManual ACMap Reading LampsMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNumber of SpeakersOdometerParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRemote StartSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterUrethane Steering WheelUSB PortVanity MirrorWelcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWheels - Steel

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Value

The Hyundai Sonata offers a more accessible entry point with a starting price of 10,750 BHD, making it the better choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a well-equipped sedan.

2

Best for Fuel Efficiency

With an impressive fuel economy of 6 L/100km, the Hyundai Sonata is the clear winner for drivers looking to minimize their trips to the petrol station and save on running costs.

3

Best for Cargo Space

For those who frequently need to transport luggage or groceries, the Nissan Altima stands out with a significantly larger trunk capacity of 517 L compared to the Sonata's 453 L.

4

Best Driving Feel

The Hyundai Sonata's traditional 8-speed automatic transmission offers a more direct and engaging driving experience compared to the Nissan Altima's CVT, appealing to drivers who prefer conventional gear shifts.

Pros & cons

Hyundai Sonata

Pros

  • More affordable starting price (10,750 BHD)
  • Superior fuel economy (6 L/100km)
  • Traditional 8-speed automatic transmission
  • Slightly higher power output (191 hp)

Cons

  • Smaller trunk capacity (453 L)
  • Slightly slower acceleration (8.2 seconds)
  • Higher kerb weight (1,498 kg)
  • Slightly smaller fuel tank capacity (56 L)

Nissan Altima

Pros

  • Larger trunk capacity (517 L)
  • Quicker acceleration (8 seconds)
  • Lighter kerb weight (starting at 1,430 kg)
  • Higher fuel tank capacity (61.3 L)

Cons

  • Higher starting price (11,995 BHD)
  • Less fuel efficient (6.3 L/100km)
  • CVT transmission feel
  • Slightly lower power output (188 hp)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more affordable, the Hyundai Sonata or Nissan Altima in Bahrain?

The Hyundai Sonata offers a more competitive starting price of 10,750 BHD, making it the more affordable option. The Nissan Altima begins at 11,995 BHD, which is significantly higher. For buyers prioritizing initial cost savings, the Sonata is the better choice.

Which car offers better fuel economy, the Hyundai Sonata or Nissan Altima?

The Hyundai Sonata is more fuel-efficient, achieving 6 L/100km. The Nissan Altima, while still economical, has a slightly higher consumption at 6.3 L/100km. If long-term running costs and fuel savings are a priority, the Sonata is the superior option.

Is the Hyundai Sonata or Nissan Altima better for cargo space?

The Nissan Altima offers significantly more cargo capacity, with a trunk volume of 517 L. The Hyundai Sonata provides 453 L, which is respectable but smaller. For those needing maximum storage, the Altima is the clear winner.

Which transmission type is better in the Hyundai Sonata vs Nissan Altima?

The Hyundai Sonata features a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission, which many drivers prefer for its direct feel and predictable shifts. The Nissan Altima uses a CVT, known for its smooth, stepless acceleration but sometimes criticized for a less engaging feel. For a more conventional driving experience, the Sonata's transmission is generally preferred.