28 MPG combined makes the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5L AWD a practical choice for buyers prioritizing all-weather traction and reliable, efficient transportation over outright performance. This is a family sedan, after all, not a sports coupe, and its fuel economy reflects Nissan’s commitment to delivering a sensible, well-rounded package for the everyday commute and the occasional road trip.

City and Highway Performance

Breaking down that 28 MPG combined figure reveals a clear bias towards efficiency on longer hauls. The Altima 2.5L AWD registers 25 MPG in city driving, a respectable number given the added parasitic losses of an all-wheel-drive system and frequent stop-and-go traffic. On the highway, however, the Altima shines, achieving 34 MPG. This split clearly indicates the automatic transmission, specifically a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with its variable gear ratios, is optimized for cruising. The CVT allows the engine to operate in its most efficient RPM range at steady speeds, leading to that impressive highway figure. For someone with a significant highway commute, that extra MPG truly adds up over a year. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is a known quantity for Nissan, a workhorse designed for durability and fuel efficiency, not exhilarating acceleration. Its character is smooth and unobtrusive, perfectly matched to the Altima’s mission.

Annual Fuel Cost

The EPA estimates the 2025 Nissan Altima 2.5L AWD will cost its owner approximately $1,550 in fuel annually. This figure is derived by assuming 15,000 miles of driving per year, split between city and highway conditions, and using national average fuel prices, which the EPA updates regularly. It’s a transparent calculation designed to give prospective buyers a realistic baseline for their running costs. Keep in mind this is an estimate; actual fuel costs will vary based on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and maintenance. However, $1,550 annually for a modern, all-wheel-drive sedan is a very competitive figure, reinforcing the Altima’s value for budget-conscious consumers who still need the security of AWD.

Real-World Expectations

The 28 MPG combined rating is an achievable target for most drivers of the 2025 Altima 2.5L AWD. Those who spend a significant amount of time in heavy city traffic might see figures closer to the 25 MPG city estimate, perhaps slightly lower if their commute involves a lot of idling or aggressive driving. Conversely, drivers with predominantly highway routes will often exceed the 34 MPG highway rating, particularly if they maintain a steady speed and use cruise control effectively. The key to meeting or exceeding the EPA estimates lies in recognizing the Altima’s character. This is not a car that rewards heavy-footed acceleration or quick lane changes; it excels when driven smoothly and progressively. Its all-wheel-drive system adds a layer of confidence in inclement weather, but it’s not designed for off-road excursions or high-performance maneuvers. Buyers of this specific configuration are typically looking for reliability, safety, and predictable running costs, and the Altima delivers on all fronts with its measured fuel consumption.

How it Compares

In the crowded mid-size sedan segment, the Altima 2.5L AWD holds its own against key rivals, particularly when all-wheel drive is a primary consideration. A direct competitor, the Honda Accord EX, for example, is front-wheel drive only and offers 32 MPG combined (29 city / 37 highway) from its 1.5L turbocharged engine – a higher combined figure, but without the AWD capability. Once you factor in all-wheel drive, the landscape changes. The Toyota Camry LE AWD, with its 2.5L engine, comes in at 29 MPG combined (25 city / 34 highway), making it nearly identical to the Altima in terms of efficiency. The Subaru Legacy Premium, which features standard symmetrical all-wheel drive and a 2.5L engine, yields 30 MPG combined (27 city / 35 highway), edging out the Altima slightly. However, the exact purchase price and feature set of each trim need to be considered for a truly apples-to-apples comparison. What the Altima 2.5L AWD sacrifices in a single MPG here or there, it often makes up for in value, standard features, or preferred styling for its buyers. Enthusiasts looking for specific ALTIMA MPG across all years can find detailed breakdowns here.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Maintaining consistent, moderate speeds on the highway is crucial for the Altima’s CVT. Avoid frequent, rapid acceleration and deceleration, allowing the transmission to keep the engine in its optimal, fuel-saving RPM range.

Regular tire pressure checks are simple but highly effective. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel, degrading that 28 MPG combined rating significantly.

For city driving, anticipate traffic signals and coast to a stop whenever safe to do so. Minimizing hard braking and sharp acceleration reduces fuel consumption and wear on your brakes.

Remove any unnecessary cargo from the trunk or cabin. Extra weight places a greater load on the engine, particularly when accelerating, and even small increases in weight can have a noticeable impact on fuel economy over time.

Keeping up with scheduled maintenance, especially oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures the 2.5L engine operates at peak efficiency. A clean air filter allows the engine to breathe easier, improving combustion and fuel economy. Drivers interested in comparing fuel economy across the entire lineup can explore all Nissan fuel economy data on FuelEconomyHub.com.