The 2019 Nissan Altima AWD SR or Platinum, with its 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, gets a combined fuel economy rating of 29 MPG. This isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s respectable for a mid-size sedan with all-wheel drive. Understanding its place in the market means recognizing Nissan’s goal of practicality, affordability, and all-weather capability in this Altima. It’s a car for those who want year-round stability over maximum fuel efficiency, especially in areas with tough climates.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Altima AWD SR/Platinum at 26 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. The city rating is less impressive due to stop-and-go driving. However, the highway figure is a highlight. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is programmed to keep the engine at its most efficient range at cruising speeds. Commuters with significant highway mileage will likely see fuel consumption close to the EPA estimate, while drivers in urban settings should expect lower averages.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Nissan Altima AWD SR/Platinum at $1,500 per year. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Fuel costs vary with driving habits and local prices, but this $1,500 estimate is a benchmark for comparing the Altima’s running costs to other vehicles. Consider this alongside insurance and maintenance.

Real-world expectations

The EPA uses a standardized testing method, but real-world MPG can vary. The 2.5L engine is refined, but its fuel economy is sensitive to driving style. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will reduce efficiency. The all-wheel-drive system, while enhancing traction, also lowers fuel economy versus front-wheel-drive models. Drivers who maintain a smooth, steady pace will likely achieve figures closer to the EPA estimates. ALTIMA MPG across all years shows how the Altima’s fuel economy has changed over time.

How it compares

The 2019 Altima AWD SR/Platinum’s fuel economy compares well against its competitors. A 2019 Toyota Camry AWD has similar fuel economy, around 25 MPG city and 34 MPG highway, but the Camry’s driving experience may differ. The Subaru Legacy, in the all-wheel-drive sedan segment, typically delivers around 27 MPG combined. The Honda Accord, not available with all-wheel drive, achieves higher fuel economy in its front-wheel-drive configuration, often exceeding 30 MPG combined in the 1.5T trim. The Altima is a compromise: all-wheel drive for all-weather confidence with a slight MPG penalty versus its FWD rivals. For those wanting even more, research into all Nissan fuel economy data reveals efficient options.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed reduces unnecessary acceleration and braking, saving fuel. The Altima’s adaptive cruise control (on higher trims) adjusts speed to maintain a safe following distance, improving efficiency on long drives.

Check tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Refer to the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure for your Altima.

Minimize idling time. Letting the engine run while stationary wastes fuel. In most modern vehicles, including the Altima, extended idling isn’t needed to warm up the engine. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute, turn off the engine.

Avoid aggressive driving. Rapid acceleration and hard braking consume more fuel than gradual, smooth acceleration and gentle braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace. This is noticeable with the CVT, which operates most efficiently under steady loads.

Consider a fuel monitoring app. These apps track your fuel consumption to find ways to improve your driving. By monitoring your MPG, you can understand how driving styles and conditions affect your fuel economy and make adjustments.