Toyota Camry vs Nissan Altima
The Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima are perennial midsize sedan rivals that appeal to the same practical-minded buyer seeking a comfortable daily driver with manageable running costs. Both offer similar cabin space and feature sets at comparable used-market prices, making the true cost of ownership the decisive tiebreaker. Dig beneath the sticker prices, however, and meaningful differences in depreciation, reliability, and fuel economy emerge.
The 2022 Camry's significantly stronger resale value and superior long-term reliability record offset its slightly higher purchase price, resulting in a lower true 5-year cost and far fewer unexpected repair bills than the Altima.
2022 Toyota Camry
Winner- Best-in-class resale value retains roughly 55% after 5 years
- Consistently top-tier J.D. Power reliability ratings minimize surprise repair costs
- 2.5L naturally aspirated engine has low long-term mechanical complexity
- Higher initial purchase price requires more capital upfront
- Insurance premiums run slightly above segment average due to higher vehicle value
- Scheduled maintenance costs modestly higher than Altima at Toyota dealers
2022 Nissan Altima
- Lower sticker price reduces initial outlay and financing costs
- Slightly cheaper insurance premiums due to lower market value
- Routine scheduled maintenance intervals and parts costs are modest
- Steeper depreciation curve — retains roughly 42% after 5 years costing ~$2800 more in value loss
- Turbocharged 2.0L VC-Turbo engine has higher long-term repair risk and variable owner satisfaction
- CVT transmission reliability concerns have been documented across multiple model years
Category by category
The verdict
When every dollar is counted over five years, the 2022 Toyota Camry's $22,500 sticker price is effectively erased by its superior resale value and lower lifetime repair risk, making its true cost roughly $2,200 less than the Altima despite costing $1,500 more to buy. The Altima is not a bad car, but its documented CVT and turbo-engine reliability concerns introduce financial unpredictability that undermines its attractive entry price. For most buyers prioritizing long-term value, the Camry is the clear, data-backed choice.
Toyota Camry: The 2022 Toyota Camry is best for the buyer who plans to keep their car 5–10 years and wants the lowest total cost of ownership, fewest repair headaches, and strongest resale safety net.
Nissan Altima: The 2022 Nissan Altima suits the budget-conscious shopper focused on minimizing upfront costs and near-term monthly expenses who plans to sell or trade within 3 years.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2022 Toyota Camry more reliable than the 2022 Nissan Altima?
Yes — the Camry consistently earns higher predicted reliability ratings from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, while the Altima's VC-Turbo engine and CVT have logged above-average owner complaints in NHTSA and owner forums.
Which has better resale value, the 2022 Camry or 2022 Altima?
The Camry holds its value significantly better, retaining roughly 53–57% of its original MSRP after five years compared to approximately 42–45% for the Altima, according to iSeeCars and Edmunds data.
How much cheaper is it to insure a 2022 Altima vs a 2022 Camry?
On average, full-coverage insurance on the 2022 Altima runs about $80–$100 per year less than the Camry, primarily because the Altima's lower market value reduces comprehensive and collision premiums.
Does the Nissan Altima's turbo engine cause expensive repairs?
The 2.0L VC-Turbo can be more costly to repair than the Camry's naturally aspirated 2.5L, with turbocharger and variable-compression mechanism repairs potentially running $1,500–$3,500 outside warranty.
Is the 2022 Camry worth $1,500 more than the 2022 Altima?
Yes, for most buyers — the Camry's stronger resale value alone recovers the price gap within two to three years, and lower expected repair costs add further financial justification over a full ownership cycle.