Snails choose cars.
The Altima just launched the limited edition True Heart version at 127,800 yuan (18230$). This price marks the lower limit for the “Three Little Giants.” It is even cheaper than its sibling, the Sylphy. Previously, the 2022 2.0L XE Pure Enjoy version had a similar price. However, the True Heart version offers many upgrades. It features improved wheel and tire sizes, automatic air conditioning, a 7-inch color instrument panel, and a 12.3-inch central control screen. Most importantly, it now includes the Nissan Connect smart car system. Drivers no longer need to use their phones while driving.
Many people criticize Japanese car infotainment systems for being outdated. However, these companies are working hard to improve. Nissan offers the latest Nissan Connect system. Toyota has developed a new system in collaboration with Huawei. Honda features its third-generation Honda CONNECT system. These systems may not be as flashy as domestic brands, but they are functional. They handle navigation, multimedia, and voice recognition well for everyday use.
I believe Nissan slightly excels in refinement and operation logic. However, it does not support CarPlay. This is a downside compared to its rivals. Toyota, with Huawei’s help, supports both CarPlay and HiCar. This is great news for Huawei and Honor phone users.
Next, let’s talk about the genuine version of the Teana. It costs less and has fewer features than the main version. The real leather seats have been replaced with synthetic leather. I don’t see this as a problem. The new BMW 5 Series also uses synthetic leather. The Teana still boasts its reputation as a spacious vehicle. It maintains a refined interior quality. The Teana hasn’t updated overseas for years. It relies on Dongfeng Nissan’s continuous updates. The interior style and details suit Chinese tastes. In terms of interior and comfort, even the budget-friendly genuine version has advantages over its Japanese competitors.
What are its drawbacks? Nissan lacks driving passion. The weak CVT transmission contributes to this issue. The true version omits the 2.0T VC-turbo engine. It replaces it with a 156-horsepower 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine. This car promotes a relaxed driving style. You can drive slowly and enjoy comfort.
If you want driving quality and fun on a budget, choose Honda. The entry-level 11th generation Accord has a 1.5T engine. It delivers nearly 200 horsepower. Its chassis and suspension provide excellent handling. You can enjoy winding roads with it. Among the three competitors, the Accord underwent a complete redesign. It is the newest model. Its advanced technology and platform offer clear advantages.
What are its drawbacks? The Honda interior design feels too basic. The all-black color scheme lacks brightness, comfort, and a premium feel. The entry-level version suffers even more. To ensure agile handling, the car measures nearly 5 meters long, making it the largest of the three. However, it keeps the wheelbase tight at 2830mm. This generation’s slim design does not provide a spatial advantage.
The eleventh-generation Accord has made upgrades in comfort. However, it still ranks lowest among the three competitors. It remains a driver-focused car. The price reflects its newness. The official starting price is 179,800 yuan (25650$). However, discounts are significant. In certain regions, prices have dropped to over 130,000 yuan (18540$). Check with your local dealer for details.
Finally, there is the Camry. The new model, launched in March under the ninth generation name, sparked controversy. Many view it as just a mid-cycle update. However, the changes in appearance and upgrades in features are clear. The smart technology is significantly better than the old version. Additionally, Toyota set a reasonable price. There is no “premium” for the new model. The official starting price is only 171,800 yuan (24500$). Discounts of at least 30,000 yuan (4280$) bring the actual price to around 130,000 yuan (18540$).
The new Camry follows Toyota’s “barrel theory.” It doesn’t aim for the best but avoids weaknesses. In comfort and interior quality, it can’t match the Nissan’s spaciousness but surpasses Honda’s Civic. For driving feel, the 2.0L engine produces 17 more horsepower than the Altima. Its power sits between the three. The suspension is firmer than the Altima’s but softer than the Accord’s. If you prioritize passengers and comfort, choose the Altima. If you prioritize drivers and driving fun, pick the Accord. If you want to balance both or can’t decide what’s more important, go for the Camry. It’s straightforward and mostly regret-free.