The 2016 Nissan Altima 2.5L gets an EPA-estimated 31 MPG combined, which makes it a fuel-conscious choice in the mid-size sedan market. It’s not a sports car, and it’s not trying to be. Instead, its efficiency appeals to buyers who want reliable and affordable transportation without giving up comfort or space. These buyers are often commuters, small families, or anyone prioritizing cost-effectiveness over speed. They find the Altima’s straightforward driving experience acceptable because it provides a dependable and economical way to get around.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Altima 2.5L’s fuel economy at 27 MPG in the city and 39 MPG on the highway. This difference shows the strengths and weaknesses of the continuously variable transmission (CVT). In city driving, the engine works harder and the CVT constantly adjusts. However, on the highway, the CVT allows the engine to run at its most efficient RPM, which helps it reach nearly 40 MPG. Drivers who mostly commute on the highway will get the best results, while drivers in stop-and-go traffic might see numbers closer to the city estimate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Nissan Altima 2.5L to be $1,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. It helps to compare the running costs of different vehicles, but your actual costs may change depending on your driving, local fuel prices, and how many miles you drive. Still, the $1,400 figure shows the Altima’s appeal to budget-conscious buyers.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures are a good starting point, real-world fuel economy can vary. Expect to see numbers slightly lower or higher depending on your driving style and the roads. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and hilly terrain will lower fuel economy. But gentle acceleration, consistent speeds, and flat roads can improve it. Tire pressure is also important. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance and improve efficiency. Check and maintain your tires at the recommended pressure to maximize your MPG. Owners who track their fuel economy can often achieve results close to the EPA’s combined rating, meaning these numbers are achievable under normal conditions.

How it compares

The 2016 Altima 2.5L is competitive with other mid-size sedans. The 2016 Toyota Camry LE with its standard 2.5L engine gets an EPA-estimated 25 MPG city, 35 MPG highway, and 28 MPG combined. The Honda Accord LX gets 27 MPG city, 37 MPG highway, and 31 MPG combined with its 2.4L engine. A 2016 Ford Fusion SE with the 1.5L EcoBoost gets 25 MPG city, 37 MPG highway, and 29 MPG combined. The Altima matches the Accord in combined MPG and is better than the Camry and Fusion. For buyers in this segment, even a few MPG can change their decision, considering the long-term costs. You can view all Nissan fuel economy data on our site, or jump directly to ALTIMA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2016 Altima’s CVT is designed for efficiency, but your driving matters. Avoid fast acceleration and braking, as these make the engine work harder and use more fuel. Instead, drive smoothly and steadily, letting the CVT work well.

Regular maintenance is important. Keep your Altima’s engine tuned and the air filter clean. A dirty air filter blocks airflow, making the engine work harder and lowering fuel economy. Following the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual will keep your Altima running efficiently.

Avoid idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling uses fuel without going anywhere. This is important if you live in a city with lots of stoplights.

Plan your trips. Combine errands into one trip to use fewer cold starts. Cold engines use more fuel, so starting and stopping often will lower your MPG. By doing tasks together, you can use a warmed-up engine’s better efficiency.