29 MPG combined from the 2024 Nissan Altima SR 2.0L isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s acceptable for buyers who value style and affordability over pure efficiency. They appreciate a sleek, somewhat sporty sedan. This buyer isn’t considering a Prius Prime but wants a comfortable daily driver that looks good. The Altima SR delivers that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Altima SR 2.0L gets 25 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. The highway number is more impressive and shows the engine cruises easily at higher speeds. The “AV-S8” transmission, Nissan’s continuously variable transmission tuned for simulated shifts, helps maximize fuel efficiency on the open road. The city MPG handles stop-and-go traffic without issue. These numbers reflect a car optimized for urban and suburban driving, which suits the target buyer.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Nissan Altima SR 2.0L at $1,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your costs will vary based on driving and local prices, but it’s a good benchmark. Many Altima SR buyers include this cost in their budget and find it acceptable for the car’s overall appeal.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a baseline, but your personal MPG will vary based on driving. Hard acceleration, frequent hard braking, and high speeds will hurt fuel economy. Smoother driving can improve those numbers. Keep tires inflated, avoid extra weight, and plan routes to avoid traffic to improve fuel economy. Regular oil changes also help keep your car running efficiently. Refer to your owner’s manual for maintenance recommendations.

How it compares

When considering this car, it’s important to understand how the Altima SR 2.0L compares to its rivals. The Toyota Camry SE typically gets around 32 MPG combined. The Honda Accord LX gets about 33 MPG combined in its base form. Even the Mazda 3 Sedan with its engine achieves MPG numbers around 31 MPG when equipped correctly. These differences can add up. However, the Altima SR 2.0L’s styling and sporty driving might sway buyers who value those features over slight fuel savings. For those prioritizing frugality across the Nissan lineup, see all Nissan fuel economy data.

For the most up-to-date information with all trim configurations, check ALTIMA MPG across all years.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

The Altima’s CVT simulates gear changes, but a light foot still helps. Avoid sudden acceleration and maintain a steady throttle, especially from a stop or uphill. This helps the transmission stay in its efficient range and minimizes fuel use.

Cruise control is helpful on long highway drives, maintaining speed and preventing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which improves fuel economy. Set cruise control at a reasonable speed.

Planning trips can save time and fuel. Use navigation apps to find efficient routes and avoid traffic. A smooth drive is more fuel-efficient than stop-and-go.

Check and maintain your tires regularly. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance for better fuel economy. Check the sticker on your doorjamb for the recommended pressure and check your tires monthly.

Avoid idling. If stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, and idling wastes fuel.