The 2016 Nissan Altima 3.5L returns a combined fuel economy of 26 MPG. This figure perfectly captures the car’s mission: offering V6 power and refinement to buyers who still prioritize reasonable running costs. It’s a mid-size family sedan with an optional dose of extra power, not a sports sedan or a hybrid efficiency champion, and the fuel economy reflects that compromise.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Altima 3.5L will achieve 22 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. That highway number is more impressive than the city figure. The Altima’s continuously variable transmission (CVT), dubbed “AV-S7” by Nissan, works well on the open road, keeping the engine in its most efficient rev range. In stop-and-go city driving, that same CVT, while still smooth, doesn’t have as much opportunity to shine. The 3.5L V6 also needs a bit more fuel to get this vehicle moving than the base 2.5L inline-4 engine.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Nissan Altima 3.5L is $1,700. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Actual expenses will vary for those who drive more or less than 15,000 miles annually, or who live in areas with higher or lower fuel costs. The EPA calculation assumes regular unleaded gasoline, which is what Nissan recommends for this engine.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers with a heavy foot will likely see numbers below the EPA estimates, especially in city driving. But, those who prioritize fuel efficiency and use techniques like smooth acceleration and consistent speeds on the highway may be able to exceed the 31 MPG highway rating. Factors such as tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even weather conditions can also impact fuel consumption.

How it compares

The 2016 Altima 3.5L competes directly with other V6-powered mid-size sedans of its era. The 2016 Toyota Camry XSE V6, for example, is rated at 25 MPG combined (21 City/30 Highway). The Honda Accord V6 Sedan from the same year achieves a slightly better 26 MPG combined (21 City/33 Highway). The ALTIMA MPG across all years shows similar results.

What does this comparison mean for the prospective Altima buyer? It highlights that while the Altima 3.5L offers a significant performance boost over the base four-cylinder, it does so without a huge penalty at the pump. Someone considering the V6 is likely less concerned with absolute fuel efficiency than someone solely focused on saving money, but they still want a reasonably efficient car. It’s about getting the most performance for the fuel consumed, and the Altima strikes a good balance.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Pay attention to tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Rapid acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Smooth and gradual acceleration, anticipating traffic flow, and maintaining a constant speed when possible will all help improve fuel economy. The Altima’s CVT is designed to keep the engine in its optimal efficiency range, so let it do its job.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling burns fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. This is particularly relevant in city driving, where idling at traffic lights and in stop-and-go traffic can significantly reduce fuel economy.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. A neglected engine will lose performance and consume more fuel. All Nissan fuel economy data show the importance of general maintenance.