The Nissan Altima VI 2.5, equipped with a 188 horsepower engine and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), represents a significant iteration in Nissan’s mid-size sedan lineup. Produced from August 2018 through June 2022, this variant occupied a central position within the sixth generation (L33) Altima, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and respectable performance. It aimed to appeal to a broad customer base seeking a comfortable and technologically equipped family sedan. The Altima VI, built on Nissan’s D-platform, was primarily marketed towards North American consumers, competing with established rivals like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Altima |
| Generation | Altima VI |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (188 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | August, 2018 |
| End of production | June, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.1-10.5 l/100 km (23.3 – 22.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.2-7.6 l/100 km (32.7 – 30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.8-9.1 l/100 km (26.7 – 25.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 129.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 167.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 188 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 244 Nm @ 3600 rpm (179.97 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6200 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | PR25DD |
| Engine displacement | 2488 cm3 (151.83 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVTCS |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1453-1508 kg (3203.32 – 3324.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 436 l (15.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 61 l (16.11 US gal | 13.42 UK gal) |
| Length | 4900 mm (192.91 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Height | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2824 mm (111.18 in.) |
| Front track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1615 mm (63.58 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT Xtronic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16; 215/55 R17; 235/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Altima 2.5 is Nissan’s PR25DD 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection, a key technology for improving both power and fuel economy. The PR25DD features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), optimizing valve timing for varying engine speeds and loads. The engine’s design prioritizes efficiency and smooth operation. Paired with the engine is Nissan’s Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). This transmission lacks traditional gears, instead using a belt and pulley system to provide a seamless and theoretically infinite number of gear ratios. This contributes to improved fuel efficiency and a smoother driving experience, although it can sometimes feel less responsive than a traditional automatic transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The 188 horsepower and 244 Nm (179.97 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the PR25DD engine and Xtronic CVT combination provide adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph typically takes around 7.5-8.5 seconds. The CVT is tuned for fuel economy, meaning it prioritizes keeping the engine in its most efficient operating range. This can result in a “rubber band” feel during hard acceleration, where engine RPMs rise quickly but forward momentum feels delayed. Compared to the more powerful 3.5-liter V6 option available in some Altima VI trims, the 2.5L CVT model offers significantly less outright performance. However, it provides a more refined and fuel-efficient driving experience than the base 2.0-liter engine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5L CVT Altima typically came standard with features like NissanConnect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, rearview camera, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trim levels, such as the SL and Platinum, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a larger touchscreen display (9-inch), navigation, and a premium sound system. Optional extras included a sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Interior upholstery generally consisted of cloth on lower trims, with leather becoming standard on higher-end models. Dashboard configurations were relatively consistent across trims, with a focus on a user-friendly layout.
Chassis & Braking
The Altima VI 2.5 utilizes an independent coil spring suspension in the front, coupled with an independent multi-link spring suspension in the rear. A transverse stabilizer bar is included on both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride quality. The chassis is designed to balance handling with ride comfort, making it suitable for everyday driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Altima VI 2.5 for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. However, the CVT transmission received mixed reviews, with some testers finding it unresponsive during aggressive driving. Compared to the V6-powered Altima, the 2.5L CVT model offered significantly better fuel economy (around 26-28 mpg combined) but considerably less performance. The 2.5L CVT trim was positioned as the mainstream offering, appealing to buyers prioritizing value and efficiency over outright speed. Reliability reports generally indicate good long-term dependability for the PR25DD engine and Xtronic CVT, although some owners have reported issues with the CVT over extended mileage.
Legacy
The Nissan Altima VI 2.5 (188 Hp) CVT remains a common sight on the used car market. Its reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The PR25DD engine, while not a powerhouse, has proven to be a durable and relatively maintenance-free unit. The Xtronic CVT, while sometimes criticized for its driving feel, has also demonstrated reasonable longevity with proper maintenance (regular fluid changes are crucial). As a mid-size sedan offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and efficiency, the Altima VI 2.5 continues to hold its value and provide a viable transportation solution for many drivers.
