30 MPG combined makes the 2025 Nissan Altima SL/SR 2.5L 4-cyl an efficient choice for the sedan buyer who prioritizes practicality and predictable running costs over outright performance or luxury. This car aims to deliver sensible, comfortable transportation without draining your wallet at the pump. Buyers of this Altima trim know exactly what they’re getting – a well-equipped, non-turbocharged sedan that balances features and affordability, with fuel economy a core part of that value. The 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine and the automatic transmission with variable gear ratios work together to achieve this figure, making the Altima a steady companion for daily commutes and longer journeys.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the 2025 Altima SL/SR 2.5L at 27 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. These numbers are competitive in the mid-size sedan segment, especially for a well-optioned trim like the SL or SR. In city driving, the Altima’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) is tuned to keep the engine in its most efficient range, minimizing fuel consumption during stop-and-go conditions. The smooth power delivery of CVTs helps the Altima accelerate without unnecessary rev flares, a complaint in some earlier CVT designs. On the highway, the 36 MPG figure shines. This is where the Altima cruises, with the engine operating at low RPMs, easily maintaining speed. Long-distance drivers, a significant portion of the Altima’s target demographic, will appreciate this capability, which means fewer fuel stops and more miles between fill-ups. The Altima’s powertrain is optimized for smooth, linear acceleration that prioritizes efficiency over raw power, a trade-off its owners accept for the fuel savings it delivers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,450 for the 2025 Nissan Altima SL/SR 2.5L 4-cyl. This figure comes from an assumption of 15,000 miles driven annually, with a mix of 45% highway and 55% city driving, based on national average fuel prices. For the Altima owner, this $1,450 figure represents a tangible, predictable expense, making it easier to budget for vehicle ownership. It shows the Altima’s positioning as a financially sensible option in its class. Compared to SUVs or trucks, and even some higher-performance sedans, this relatively low annual cost is a significant selling point. It’s a clear indication that Nissan engineered this powertrain to minimize the pain at the pump, providing confidence for buyers looking for an economical daily driver. You can also explore ALTIMA MPG across all years to see how this model’s efficiency has evolved.

Real-world expectations

In the real world, the 2025 Altima SL/SR 2.5L often closely mirrors its EPA ratings, provided driving habits are reasonable. Drivers who spend a lot of time in heavy traffic or drive aggressively might see city figures dip slightly below 27 MPG, which is common for any vehicle. Conversely, those with a gentle foot and a mostly highway commute may even exceed the 36 MPG highway rating. The car’s character, with its emphasis on smooth and composed motoring rather than spirited driving, encourages an efficient driving style. The intuitive nature of the CVT, which avoids the abrupt gear changes of traditional automatics, also contributes to consistent fuel efficiency. Owners should expect a steady, predictable performance that lives up to the Altima’s reputation as a frugal and dependable mid-size sedan. It’s a car that guides you to drive efficiently with its design.

How it compares

The 2025 Altima SL/SR 2.5L’s 30 MPG combined places it in contention within the highly competitive mid-size sedan segment. Consider direct rivals equipped with similar naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines. The Honda Accord LX/EX with its 1.5L turbocharged engine often achieves around 32 MPG combined (29 city/37 highway), showing a different approach to efficiency through forced induction. The Toyota Camry LE/SE with its 2.5L 4-cyl comes in very close, often at 32 MPG combined (28 city/39 highway), representing a direct parallel in powertrain philosophy. The Hyundai Sonata SE, also typically with a 2.5L engine, might land around 31 MPG combined (28 city/38 highway). The Altima is right in the thick of it – it’s not a segment leader, but it holds its own as a highly competitive offering. Buyers often choose the Altima SL/SR not only for its fuel economy, but for its comfortable ride, standard features, and attractive design, all while knowing their fuel costs will be reasonable. For more about Nissan’s full lineup, explore all Nissan fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining consistent highway speeds without aggressive acceleration or braking is important for the Altima’s 2.5L engine. The CVT is engineered to find the optimal engine RPM for a given speed, and sudden throttle inputs force it out of this efficient sweet spot, consuming more fuel.

Regular maintenance, particularly keeping the tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure, is critical. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and directly impacting fuel economy, especially noticeable in city driving.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary idling. If you know you’ll be stopped for an extended period, shutting off the engine, if safe to do so, will conserve fuel more effectively than letting it idle, particularly in warmer weather when the AC might be running.

Use the Altima’s ECO mode, if equipped on your specific SL/SR model, for daily commuting. This mode subtly remaps throttle response and transmission behavior to prioritize fuel efficiency, making it easier to drive smoothly and conserve gasoline without much conscious effort.

Minimize carrying excessive weight in the trunk or cabin. While the Altima is a spacious sedan, added cargo resistance, especially on longer trips, can incrementally reduce efficiency. Every pound counts when striving for peak MPG.