With 31 MPG combined, the 2021 Nissan Altima SR 2.5L offers a stylish option and reasonable fuel efficiency for drivers. It’s not a hybrid with extreme fuel efficiency, and it’s not a performance sedan that uses a lot of gas. Instead, the Altima SR balances fuel efficiency and a sporty look that appeals to commuters and small families who want a car that doesn’t cost too much to fuel. These buyers often appreciate the Altima’s comfortable ride and easy-to-use technology, and they know the fuel economy is a compromise they’re willing to make for what the car offers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Altima SR 2.5L gets 27 MPG in the city and 37 MPG on the highway. The city number is good for a mid-size sedan, and it shows the effects of stop-and-go traffic. The Altima’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) helps with city performance by keeping the engine in its most efficient range, although some drivers don’t prefer it. The 37 MPG highway rating is where the Altima SR does well. Highway drivers will like this number because it means fewer gas station stops on long trips. This works because the CVT can act like a regular transmission, avoiding the “rubber band” issue that CVTs sometimes have and helping the engine use less fuel during cruising.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Nissan Altima SR 2.5L at $1,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is an estimate and your fuel costs may change based on your driving, local fuel prices, and driving type. The real-world cost will change for drivers who drive much more or less than 15,000 miles each year, or for those who live where fuel costs are different. The $1,400 cost gives a standard to compare the Altima’s fuel costs with others like it. You can view all Nissan fuel economy data when thinking about the annual fuel costs of different Nissan models.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers are a good starting point, real-world fuel economy changes based on driving and conditions. Quick acceleration, strong braking, and long idling periods will hurt MPG. Also, fuel efficiency will go down when driving on mountains or carrying heavy items. With careful acceleration, predicting traffic, and less idling, drivers can likely get close to the EPA estimates. Owners often report highway numbers above 35 MPG, even at regular speeds. The EPA rating is generally achievable for most drivers, though results change.

How it compares

The 2021 Altima SR 2.5L’s fuel economy is competitive in the mid-size sedan class. For instance, the Toyota Camry LE often has slightly better numbers, around 28 MPG city and 39 MPG highway, making it a good choice for fuel efficiency. The Honda Accord LX also has slightly better fuel efficiency, with about 30 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway. The Hyundai Sonata SE, with its base 2.5L engine, has similar numbers to the Altima with about 28 MPG city and 38 MPG highway. Buyers who want maximum MPG might think about these options. The Altima SR stands out for its sporty style and fun driving, qualities that some drivers may prefer over slightly better fuel savings. Drivers can compare ALTIMA MPG across all years to other vehicles to help them make informed decisions.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Keeping tires properly inflated is important for the best fuel efficiency. Tires with low air increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and using more fuel. Check tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure on the sticker on the driver’s side door.

Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking. These use much more fuel than smooth acceleration and gentle braking. Predict traffic and keep a steady pace when possible.

Don’t idle for too long. Leaving the engine on while stopped for long periods wastes fuel. If you’ll be stopped for over a minute, turning off the engine is usually better.

On the highway, using cruise control can help. Keeping a steady speed helps the engine work more efficiently and saves fuel. Cruise control works best on long, flat roads.

Regular maintenance can improve fuel economy. An engine that’s well-maintained works more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and other key services.