32 MPG combined is precisely what the 2020 Nissan Altima 2.5L was engineered to deliver: respectable, reliable, and relatively painless fuel economy for the mid-size sedan buyer who prioritizes value and practicality over outright excitement. This isn’t a sports sedan masquerading as a family hauler; it’s a comfortable, spacious, and affordable machine primarily aimed at commuting and family duties, and its fuel consumption reflects that mission.

City and highway performance

The Altima’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), yields an EPA rating of 28 MPG in the city and a more impressive 39 MPG on the highway. The city figure is adequate for stop-and-go traffic, though drivers with consistently heavy feet might see slightly lower numbers. The CVT, while not known for its sporty feel, contributes significantly to the highway fuel efficiency. By constantly adjusting the gear ratio to keep the engine in its optimal powerband, it allows the Altima to cruise at highway speeds with minimal fuel consumption. Long road trips are where the Altima shines, offering a blend of comfort and economy that’s hard to fault at its price point.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Nissan Altima 2.5L at $1,350. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a calculated percentage of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel prices when the calculations were made. Keep in mind this is an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, the type of roads you drive on, and the current price of gasoline in your area. However, this benchmark provides a valuable point of comparison with other vehicles. Spending $1,350 to fuel your Altima shouldn’t break the bank, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a good starting point, real-world fuel economy often varies. Altima drivers frequently report numbers close to the official figures, but aggressive acceleration or primarily city driving can easily drop the combined MPG into the high 20s. Conversely, hypermiling techniques on the highway could push the MPG above 40. The Altima’s fuel economy is generally consistent and predictable, rewarding drivers who adopt a smooth and steady driving style. It is a forgiving car in that efficiency losses come mostly from excessive use of the throttle.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 2020 Nissan Altima 2.5L holds its own in the fuel economy stakes. The Toyota Camry LE, another popular mid-size sedan, achieves an EPA-estimated 28 MPG city and 39 MPG highway, essentially mirroring the Altima. The Honda Accord LX boasts 30 MPG city and 38 MPG highway. While the Accord gains a small advantage in the city, the Altima and Camry achieve identical highway efficiency. The Hyundai Sonata SE earns 28 MPG city and 38 MPG highway. These numbers are important for the Altima buyer; they’re not looking to purchase for peak performance, but to instead buy a safe and reliable sedan that compares well to the competition. The 2020 Altima is generally equivalent to its competition, and the buyer is unlikely to select one car over the other due to a massive difference fuel economy. Review all all Nissan fuel economy data here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking. The Altima’s CVT is designed for smooth, gradual power delivery. Stomping on the gas only forces the engine to work harder and burns more fuel without adding significantly to your acceleration. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed to maximize fuel efficiency.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side door jamb. Every little bit contributes to reaching the manufacturer’s MPG targets.

Minimize idling time. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Newer Altima models may even feature an auto start/stop system that does this automatically. Be aware that excessive idling can severely compromise fuel economy.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, which can improve fuel economy on long trips. It prevents you from unintentionally speeding up and slowing down, which wastes fuel. When you set the computer to your desired steady speed, you will see better gas mileage on the road.

Consider using the Altima’s “Eco” mode, if equipped. This mode adjusts the engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel efficiency, often resulting in slightly slower acceleration but noticeable gains in MPG. It’s a simple way to optimize efficiency without significantly altering your driving habits. Study ALTIMA MPG across all years to consider other model year options.