32 MPG combined is a good number for the 2021 Nissan Altima 2.5L 4-cylinder. It’s not going to win any hypermiling contests, but it’s a perfectly acceptable figure that allows this sensible, reliable sedan to appeal to value-conscious buyers who prioritize practicality and affordability over outright performance or cutting-edge technology. These folks appreciate a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and a vehicle that won’t break the bank at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2021 Altima 2.5L are 28 MPG in the city and 39 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the Altima’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) works to keep the engine in its most efficient range. While CVTs aren’t always known for their engaging feel, they undeniably contribute to less gas. Out on the open road, the 39 MPG highway rating really shines. This makes the Altima a comfortable and relatively economical choice for longer commutes and road trips. The engine is surprisingly relaxed at highway speeds, and the smooth CVT helps maintain consistent momentum, further improving fuel efficiency. Smart use of cruise control on level highways will get you even closer to that 39 MPG rating.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Nissan Altima 2.5L is $1,350. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. For buyers who drive significantly fewer miles per year or are particularly mindful of their fuel consumption, the actual annual cost could be even lower. As a baseline for comparison and budgeting, the $1,350 figure provides a realistic estimate of what you can expect to spend on fuel each year with the Altima.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a standardized benchmark, it’s critical to consider how they translate into real-world driving conditions. Factors such as driving style, traffic congestion, and weather conditions can all impact fuel economy. Aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and prolonged idling will all reduce your MPG. Similarly, driving in heavy traffic, especially in the city, will inevitably lower your fuel efficiency. Expect to see numbers closer to the stated city figure, or even slightly below it, during rush hour commutes. Conversely, if you primarily drive on the highway at moderate speeds, you should be able to achieve or even exceed the EPA’s 39 MPG rating. To manage expectations across the Nissan lineup, you can view all Nissan fuel economy data on this site.

How it compares

The 2021 Altima’s fuel economy places it squarely in the competitive mid-size sedan segment. The Toyota Camry, with its 2.5L engine, achieves a similar 28 MPG city and 39 MPG highway, effectively mirroring the Altima’s performance. The Honda Accord, in its LX trim with the 1.5L turbocharged engine, boasts slightly better figures at 30 MPG city and 38 MPG highway. However, the difference is small enough that other factors, such as price, features, and driving experience, often weigh more heavily in the buying decision. The Hyundai Sonata with its 2.5L engine also lands in a similar range hovering around 28 MPG city and 38 MPG highway. For buyers considering other model years, you should consult ALTIMA MPG across all years of production. The Altima offers a good combination of fuel efficiency, comfort, and affordability, making it a good option for those seeking a practical and economical mid-size sedan. It’s not the most fuel-efficient in its class, but it’s a strong all-rounder.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to getting the best gas mileage in the Altima. The CVT is designed to keep the engine in its optimal efficiency range, but rapid acceleration forces it to work harder, consuming more fuel. Aim for smooth and gradual acceleration to keep the engine operating efficiently.

Maintain a steady speed on the highway. The Altima’s aerodynamics are optimized for highway cruising, but frequent changes in speed increase fuel consumption. Using cruise control on relatively flat stretches of highway will help maintain a constant speed and helps gas mileage. Just remain alert for road conditions and be prepared to disengage it if necessary.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended inflation levels specified in your owner’s manual. Doing this can improve fuel efficiency over time.

Avoid excessive idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate a prolonged stop of more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Restarting the engine consumes far less fuel than letting it idle for an extended period, especially with modern engine technology.

Consider the weight you’re carrying. Extra weight in the vehicle reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger compartment to minimize the load on the engine. The Altima is designed to carry passengers and cargo, but unnecessary weight only diminishes its efficiency.