30 MPG combined is respectable for the 2022 Nissan Altima AWD 2.5L, placing it in the mix for mid-size sedans offering all-wheel drive. This isn’t a hybrid promising Prius-like numbers, but a practical choice for drivers who value confident traction in snow or rain and don’t want to sacrifice the space and comfort of a conventional sedan.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the Altima AWD 2.5L break down to 26 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect stop-and-go driving versus the consistent speeds of open-road cruising. The 26 MPG city figure is relevant for those who spend most of their time navigating urban environments, while the 35 MPG highway rating will appeal to commuters and road trippers. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) plays a important role here, constantly adjusting gear ratios to keep the engine operating at its most efficient point, even if some drivers don’t appreciate the sometimes-sluggish acceleration.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Nissan Altima AWD 2.5L at $1,450. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with fuel prices reflecting the national average. Your own fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits and the price of gasoline in your area, but this provides a valuable benchmark for comparing the Altima’s operating expenses to those of other vehicles. Drivers should find this to be a reasonable figure, especially when compared to larger SUVs or trucks.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized test but real-world MPG varies. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and extended idling can all negatively impact fuel economy. Smooth driving, consistent speeds, and proactive maintenance can help you achieve or even exceed the EPA estimates. Colder temperatures can slightly reduce fuel economy, especially on shorter trips before the engine fully warms up. Buyers of the Altima AWD are typically prioritizing winter traction, so understand that fuel efficiency may be slightly compromised in those colder months. Consider checking the ALTIMA MPG across all years to understand how these numbers have changed over time.

How it compares

The Altima AWD 2.5L exists in a competitive segment. The Subaru Legacy, for example, comes standard with all-wheel drive and achieves an EPA-estimated 27 MPG combined. The Toyota Camry offers an all-wheel-drive option on its 2.5L engine, with an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined. The Kia K5, while not offering AWD on all trims, achieves up to 31 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration. These comparisons highlight the Altima’s position as being competitive, but not necessarily leading in fuel efficiency within the AWD mid-size sedan class. The buyer choosing the Altima might prioritize its specific blend of features, styling, or overall value, rather than solely focusing on maximizing MPG figures.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Altima’s CVT benefits from smoother, more gradual increases in speed. Quick starts and frequent bursts of acceleration drain fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace to minimize the need for heavy acceleration or braking.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Consult the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and check your tires regularly with a reliable gauge. This is especially crucial in colder temperatures, as tire pressure naturally decreases with the temperature.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Remove any excess cargo from the trunk or backseat that you don’t regularly need. Extra weight puts a strain on the engine and reduces fuel efficiency. This applies to any vehicle, but it’s relevant for maximizing the MPG of a sedan where drivers often treat the trunk as secondary storage.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, minimizing fluctuations that can negatively impact fuel economy. It’s effective on long, flat stretches of highway, where it can significantly improve your MPG. Remember to disengage cruise control in heavy traffic or inclement weather.

Keep up with routine maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections help ensure that your engine is running at its peak efficiency. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep your Altima performing optimally for years to come. For more information, consider looking at all Nissan fuel economy data.