The 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5L gets 26 MPG combined, a sensible compromise. It’s not a hybrid designed for maximum efficiency; it’s a midsize sedan with a V6 engine chosen for its smooth power and satisfying acceleration. The Altima 3.5L is good for drivers who want confident performance over extreme fuel savings, and its fuel economy shows that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 Altima 3.5L are 22 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. The city figure mirrors stop-and-go traffic, where the engine idles and accelerates more, reducing fuel efficiency. The 32 MPG highway rating shows the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at higher speeds, helped by the Altima’s aerodynamic design and the continuously variable transmission (AV-S7) programmed to keep the engine in its most efficient range. Highway figures are usually easier to replicate in the real world than city MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Nissan Altima 3.5L at $1,700. This comes from driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices at the time. Your costs may change based on your driving, local fuel prices, and how many miles you drive. However, the $1,700 lets you compare the Altima’s fuel expenses to others. Drivers who consider all Nissan fuel economy data find the Altima a good middling model.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standard, but real-world fuel economy varies. Driving hard, including quick acceleration, will lower MPG. and carrying extra weight (passengers or cargo) and using air conditioning can hurt fuel consumption. Regular maintenance, like tire inflation and oil changes, is important for good fuel efficiency. Many owners can get the advertised highway MPG, but the city figure needs more effort. The ALTIMA MPG across all years is actually pretty consistent.

How it compares

The 2017 Toyota Camry V6, a competitor, gets about 21 MPG city and 30 MPG highway. The Honda Accord V6 gets 21 MPG city and 33 MPG highway. The Chevrolet Malibu with its optional 2.0-liter turbocharged engine offers 22 MPG city and 33 MPG highway. These comparisons show that the Altima 3.5L’s fuel economy is competitive with other V6 sedans. Buyers in this group usually weigh the V6 power against the better MPG from smaller, turbocharged engines or hybrids. They are, by and large, more focused on reliable power than those who shop for the four cylinder Altima, which nets 27 MPG combined.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate smoothly. The Altima’s V6 has plenty of power, and you rarely need to floor it. Gentle acceleration lets the CVT work efficiently, keeping the engine in its best rev range. Avoid fast starts and stops to save gas.

Keep consistent speeds on the highway. Using cruise control on flat roads can cut down on speed changes, leading to better fuel economy. But on hills, cruise control can lower efficiency as the transmission works harder.

Check your tire pressure often. Underinflated tires add rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. See the sticker on your doorjamb for the right tire pressure. A simple tire pressure gauge can save you fuel and improve tire life.

Remove extra weight. Extra weight in your trunk or backseat strains the engine and hurts fuel efficiency. Remove things you don’t need to lighten the load. Even small weight reductions can add up.

Think about using a fuel additive to clean fuel injectors. Over time, deposits can build up in the fuel injectors, impairing their ability to deliver fuel efficiently. A fuel additive can help remove these deposits and restore optimal fuel spray patterns, potentially improving fuel economy. However, be sure to use a reputable brand and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.