2022 Nissan Altima vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat retained its exterior styling from the previous year, following a significant facelift in 2020. This update gave the Passat a more understated appearance, aligning it closely with the smaller Volkswagen Jetta. The design was less radical compared to competitors like the Hyundai Sonata and Toyota Camry, featuring a smooth, aerodynamic shape reminiscent of 1990s sedans. Standard features included LED headlights and taillights, with Execline models boasting 19-inch wheels and an Adaptive Front-lighting System. Inside, the Passat offered a clean, functional design with well-placed analog controls, enhancing visibility and ease of use. However, some buyers might have found the interior plain, with its predominant use of plastic and leatherette upholstery, despite excellent fit and finish.

The 2022 Nissan Altima continued the brand's tradition of sporty styling, evident since the third-generation model. Available in three trims in Canada, the Altima featured Nissan's V-Motion grille, a low, wide stance, and a distinctive "floating" roofline. The SR Midnight Edition added a sporty flair with gloss black accents and 19-inch wheels. Inside, the Altima impressed with its Zero Gravity front seats and high-quality materials, offering a premium feel, especially in higher trims. While the Altima's dimensions were average among competitors, it provided a comfortable ride and a decent-sized trunk, though rear visibility was somewhat compromised by its design.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat was equipped with a single powertrain option: a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. This engine produced 174 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque. While the torque was commendable, the horsepower was slightly below average compared to rivals. The Passat's power delivery was uneven, particularly during highway overtakes, though switching to Sport mode improved responsiveness. The driving experience was unremarkable, lacking the sportiness or comfort found in competitors like the Honda Accord or Mazda 6. The Passat offered a plain driving experience, with good but not exceptional ride quality and cabin noise levels.

In contrast, the 2022 Nissan Altima in Canada came with a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 188 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. While the engine's performance was modest, the Altima stood out with its standard all-wheel drive, a rarity in the midsize sedan segment. The Xtronic CVT, paired with the engine, resulted in mediocre acceleration and noticeable engine noise. However, the Altima excelled in ride comfort, thanks to its excellent suspension and Active Ride Control, providing a smooth and quiet driving experience akin to luxury vehicles.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat offered generous rear legroom at 993 millimetres, though it fell short compared to the Honda Accord and Subaru Legacy. Front legroom and headroom were below average, leading to an uncomfortable driving position for some. The Passat's cargo space was 450 litres, surpassing the Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima but trailing behind the Accord and Sonata. In-cabin storage was limited, with poorly shaped door bottle holders. However, the Passat excelled in control layout, featuring large, easily accessible buttons and knobs, complemented by an easy-to-read instrument cluster.

The 2022 Nissan Altima provided comfortable seating for four, with a back seat accessible for short distances. Its dimensions were average among competitors, with a 437-litre trunk larger than the Camry but smaller than the Accord and Sonata. The Altima's fuel tank was the largest in its class at just under 61 litres. However, rear visibility was compromised by a high rear shelf and sloping roofline. The trunk's metal bar supports required careful packing to avoid crushing items. Despite these minor issues, the Altima offered a well-rounded package for daily commuting and family use.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat featured the MIB2 infotainment system with a 6.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM. Execline models added navigation and an eight-speaker Fender audio system. A single USB-A port was standard, limiting connectivity for newer devices. The small touchscreen included pinch-to-zoom but was largely unnecessary for basic functions, thanks to dashboard knobs and steering-wheel controls. The Passat lacked advanced tech features like the Digital Cockpit or MIB3 system, appealing to those seeking simplicity over a tech-heavy experience.

The 2022 Nissan Altima came equipped with a 7-inch advanced drive-assist display and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and SiriusXM. Higher trims included navigation, remote engine start, and a nine-speaker Bose audio system. The advanced display allowed for hands-free control of various functions, while additional technologies like traffic sign recognition and an Around View Monitor enhanced convenience. The ProPilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance, maintaining lane position and speed. The Altima's tech suite worked seamlessly, offering a user-friendly experience.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat received top "good" scores from the IIHS in all crash tests, though its standard headlights earned a "marginal" rating. The NHTSA had not published ratings for the 2021 model. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Execline trim added lane-keep assist and lane departure warning. Notable safety systems included the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Intelligent Crash Response System.

The 2022 Nissan Altima boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The NHTSA awarded the FWD Altima five stars for overall crash protection, while the IIHS named it a "Top Safety Pick+" with "Good" ratings in all crash tests. The Altima's crash avoidance systems received high marks, with "Superior" ratings for vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention. Child-seat anchors were rated "Good+" by the IIHS.