While 30 MPG combined won’t break any records, it’s a respectable figure for the 2023 Nissan Altima SL/SR 2.5L 4-cyl, a mid-size sedan for value-conscious buyers. These buyers prioritize comfort and reliability and appreciate a reasonable balance of economy and everyday usability. They like the Altima’s spacious interior, smooth ride, and a suite of standard safety features. Fuel economy is a consideration, but it usually plays second fiddle to overall cost of ownership and practicality.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Altima SL/SR 2.5L at 27 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. This split reflects the Altima’s continuously variable transmission (CVT), programmed to keep the engine operating in its most efficient range during steady highway cruising. The city figure is adequate and in line with typical stop-and-go conditions. The highway number represents its strengths, making it a decent choice for commuters and families who regularly embark on longer trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Nissan Altima SL/SR 2.5L 4-cyl at $1,450. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Actual fuel costs will vary based on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and even the weather. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and extended idling will negatively impact real-world fuel economy, potentially pushing that $1,450 figure higher.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary. Fuel tracking apps show Altima MPG across all years ranging from the low 20s to the low 40s. Expect to be on the lower end of that spectrum during winter months with cold starts, snow tires, and increased accessory usage like heated seats and defrost. Summer highway trips without a heavy foot on the accelerator should allow you to approach, and potentially even exceed, the EPA’s 36 MPG estimate.

How it compares

The Altima’s fuel economy positions it competitively within the mid-size sedan segment. The Toyota Camry LE, for example, boasts an EPA-estimated 28 MPG city and 39 MPG highway, giving it a slight edge on the highway. The Honda Accord LX manages 29 MPG city and 37 MPG highway, a negligible improvement in many drivers’ eyes. The Hyundai Sonata SE gets 28 city/38 highway. These differences often aren’t large enough to sway buying decisions alone.

Instead, factors like styling, features, and perceived reliability often carry more weight, which means shoppers are looking at the total package, and seeing which has the best combination of all their needs. Complete all Nissan fuel economy data also helps to give buyers the data side of what they want!

Tips to maximize efficiency

Consistent tire pressure is important. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the levels recommended on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. This simple maintenance task can have a noticeable impact on fuel economy over time.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Altima’s CVT rewards smooth, gradual inputs. Slamming on the gas or braking hard will counteract the CVT’s efforts to keep the engine operating efficiently. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Lighten the load. Carrying unnecessary weight in the trunk or back seat reduces fuel economy. Remove any items that you don’t need daily because extra weight forces the engine to work harder to move the vehicle. This is especially important on long trips where the cumulative effect of extra weight becomes more pronounced.

Minimize idling because idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to start and stop frequently without causing excessive wear and tear. This is particularly important in urban environments where you may encounter frequent stoplights and traffic congestion.

Use cruise control on the highway. Engaging cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, preventing fluctuations in acceleration that can waste fuel. Be mindful of hills and adjust your speed accordingly. Letting the car speed up going downhill and slow dramatically going uphill defeats the purpose of cruise control and reduces fuel economy.