29 MPG combined is a respectable figure for the 2021 Nissan Altima AWD SR/Platinum 2.5L, a mid-size sedan engineered for comfortable commutes and all-weather confidence. It’s not a hybrid chasing maximum efficiency, nor is it a performance sedan prioritizing horsepower. It’s a practical choice for those who need a reliable, comfortable car with the added security of all-wheel drive, and the fuel economy reflects that balance.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Altima AWD SR/Platinum at 25 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure is typical, reflecting the stop-and-go driving conditions where the engine spends more time idling and accelerating. The highway number showcases the benefits of the Altima’s continuously variable transmission (CVT), which allows the engine to operate at its most efficient RPMs during sustained cruising. The CVT’s variable gear ratios are optimized for fuel consumption, while still providing ample power when needed for passing or merging. You’ll likely see closer to the highway figure on long road trips, and closer to the city figure during your daily commute.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Nissan Altima AWD SR/Platinum 2.5L at $1,500. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. However, this figure provides a useful baseline for comparing the Altima’s running costs to other vehicles. It’s important to remember that this is an estimate; aggressive driving, poor maintenance, and extreme temperatures can all impact your real-world fuel expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, your actual mileage will depend on several factors. Driving style is a major influence. Someone with a heavy foot and a tendency to accelerate quickly will naturally see lower numbers than someone who drives more conservatively. Terrain also plays a role; hilly areas will reduce fuel economy compared to flat terrain. Weather conditions also impact fuel economy, and your results may differ. Keeping tires properly inflated and performing regular maintenance can help you get closer to the EPA estimates in real-world driving.

How it compares

Compared to other mid-size sedans with all-wheel drive, the Altima’s fuel economy is fairly competitive. The Subaru Legacy, for instance, with its standard AWD system, achieves around 27 MPG combined. The Toyota Camry AWD offers similar numbers, hovering around 28 MPG combined in its LE trim. However, front-wheel-drive versions of these and other sedans generally achieve significantly greater fuel economy. For the Altima buyer, choosing the AWD SR/Platinum trim often means accepting a slight MPG penalty in return for the added peace of mind that comes with increased traction and stability. For example, the front-wheel-drive Altima SV achieves an EPA-estimated 32 MPG combined. If fuel economy is your absolute top priority, you’ll find better numbers among hybrid mid-size sedans, or by looking at all all Nissan fuel economy data and choosing a different trim.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use cruise control whenever possible on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps minimize unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, allowing the CVT to keep the engine operating in its most efficient range. On long trips, cruise control can make a noticeable impact on your fuel consumption.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a smooth, steady pace. Rapid acceleration burns more fuel, and hard braking wastes momentum. Gentle and gradual acceleration is much more efficient, and helps extend the life of your brakes.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which you can find on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Doing so also improves vehicle handling and tire life.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra weight requires the engine to work harder, which decreases fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk and passenger compartment. Also, consider removing roof racks or cargo boxes when they are not in use, as they increase aerodynamic drag.

Plan your trips to avoid congested areas and peak traffic times. Stop-and-go traffic significantly reduces fuel economy. Use navigation apps to find the most efficient route and avoid areas with known traffic delays. Even a few minutes saved can translate to improved fuel consumption. Review ALTIMA MPG across all years to check if there are any mileage trends for older model years that suggest areas for improvement.