The 2021 Nissan Altima SR or Platinum, when equipped with the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, achieves a combined fuel economy of 29 MPG. This positions it as a solid choice for daily commuters and small families who want efficiency without giving up the comfort and technology expected in a modern mid-size sedan. This Altima balances fuel efficiency with a more engaging driving experience than some of its more appliance-like competitors.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Altima 2.0L will achieve 25 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the engine’s tuning for both responsiveness and efficiency. The city rating is adequate, allowing owners to navigate stop-and-go traffic without excessive fuel consumption. The 34 MPG highway rating is more appealing, making the Altima a cost-effective option for longer trips. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) plays an important role here, optimizing engine speed for efficiency across a wide range of driving conditions. Nissan has engineered this CVT to feel relatively natural, minimizing the “rubber band” effect often associated with this style of transmission.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Nissan Altima SR/Platinum 2.0L at $1,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing the Altima’s running costs with other vehicles in its class. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on individual driving habits and fluctuations in gasoline prices. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and neglecting routine maintenance can all increase your annual fuel expenditure beyond this $1,500 estimate.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a standardized comparison, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers can typically expect figures reasonably close to the EPA’s, though variables like driving style, terrain, and weather conditions will influence the actual MPG. The 2.0L turbo engine rewards a smooth, consistent throttle application. Pushing it hard will certainly deliver quicker acceleration, but at the expense of fuel efficiency. Pay attention to the Altima’s eco-driving indicators, if equipped, and adjust your driving habits accordingly to maximize fuel savings.

How it compares

The Altima’s fuel economy stacks up competitively against other mid-size sedans. For example, the Toyota Camry LE with its 2.5L engine achieves 28 MPG combined, while the Honda Accord LX with its 1.5L turbo manages 33 MPG combined. The Hyundai Sonata SE achieves nearly identical EPA ratings, at 28 MPG combined. While the Altima’s 29 MPG combined rating is not the absolute best in the segment, it represents a strong balance.

Buyers considering the Altima often appreciate its blend of styling, features, and driving feel and may accept a slightly lower MPG figure to get the overall package they desire. The “sportier” SR trim is often cross-shopped against rivals’ equivalent sporty trims, where fuel economy tends to be secondary to aesthetics and handling characteristics.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Altima’s CVT is designed for optimal efficiency, but it can only do so if you drive smoothly. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. This allows the CVT to settle into its most efficient ratio, which will save fuel over time.

Tire pressure has a significant impact on fuel economy. Check your Altima’s tire pressure regularly. Inflate them to the recommended level, which you can find on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which decreases fuel efficiency.

Unnecessary weight in your Altima can reduce fuel economy. Remove any items from the trunk or backseat that you don’t need to carry around. Excess weight forces the engine to work harder, increasing fuel consumption. Cleaning out the trunk is a simple way to improve the car’s gas mileage on a regular basis.

Regular maintenance is critical for optimizing efficiency. Ensure that your Altima’s engine is properly tuned, and that the air filter is clean. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Consider exploring all Nissan fuel economy data for context against other vehicles in their lineup. For more general information about ALTIMA MPG across all years, resources are available.