The 2018 Nissan Altima SR is a popular mid-size sedan that offers a blend of sporty styling, comfortable ride, and decent fuel economy. One of the key aspects that car enthusiasts often consider is the horsepower, as it directly relates to the vehicle's performance and driving experience. Let's dive into the specifics of the 2018 Nissan Altima SR's horsepower and other performance-related features.

Horsepower and Engine Options

The 2018 Nissan Altima SR comes with a choice of two engine options, each delivering a different level of horsepower. Understanding these options is crucial for potential buyers to make an informed decision based on their performance needs.

2.5-Liter 4-Cylinder Engine

The standard engine for the 2018 Nissan Altima SR is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. This engine is designed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate power for daily driving. The 2.5-liter engine produces 179 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 177 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to optimize fuel economy and provide smooth acceleration. For those who prioritize fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride, this engine option is an excellent choice. The 179 horsepower provides enough power for most driving situations, whether it's commuting to work or taking a road trip.

3.5-Liter V6 Engine

For those seeking more power and a sportier driving experience, the 2018 Nissan Altima SR is also available with a 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine significantly boosts the horsepower and torque, transforming the Altima SR into a more engaging and exciting vehicle to drive. The 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 270 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 251 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. Like the 2.5-liter engine, the V6 is also paired with a CVT, but it is tuned to handle the increased power and provide a more responsive feel. The V6 engine is ideal for drivers who enjoy spirited acceleration and confident passing power. It's perfect for those who want a mid-size sedan that offers both practicality and a touch of performance.

Performance Features of the 2018 Altima SR

Beyond the horsepower figures, the 2018 Nissan Altima SR includes several performance-enhancing features that contribute to its overall driving experience. These features work together to provide better handling, control, and responsiveness.

Sport-Tuned Suspension

The SR trim comes with a sport-tuned suspension that enhances the vehicle's handling capabilities. This suspension is designed to provide a firmer ride and reduce body roll during cornering, giving the driver more confidence and control. The sport-tuned suspension makes the Altima SR feel more planted and stable, especially on winding roads. It's a noticeable upgrade over the standard suspension found in other Altima trims, making the SR a more engaging car to drive.

Paddle Shifters

To further enhance the sporty driving experience, the 2018 Nissan Altima SR includes paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. These paddle shifters allow the driver to manually control the CVT, simulating gear changes and providing more precise control over the engine's power output. Paddle shifters are particularly useful when you want to downshift for more immediate acceleration or hold a gear when driving on challenging roads. They add an element of driver engagement that is often missing in cars with automatic transmissions.

Active Understeer Control

The 2018 Nissan Altima SR is equipped with Active Understeer Control, a system that helps to improve the vehicle's cornering ability. This system uses the brakes to subtly adjust the car's trajectory during turns, reducing understeer and helping the car to stay on its intended path. Active Understeer Control is especially helpful in slippery conditions or when taking corners at higher speeds. It works seamlessly in the background to enhance the driver's control and confidence.

Enhanced Braking System

To ensure effective stopping power, the 2018 Nissan Altima SR features an enhanced braking system with anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and brake assist. ABS prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. EBD distributes braking force evenly between the front and rear wheels, optimizing braking performance. Brake assist detects emergency braking situations and applies maximum braking force to help the driver stop quickly. These features work together to provide safe and reliable braking performance in a variety of driving conditions.

Fuel Efficiency

While horsepower is important, fuel efficiency is also a key consideration for many car buyers. The 2018 Nissan Altima SR strikes a good balance between power and fuel economy, making it a practical choice for daily use.

2.5-Liter Engine Fuel Economy

The 2018 Nissan Altima SR with the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. This makes it one of the more fuel-efficient mid-size sedans in its class. The CVT helps to optimize fuel economy by keeping the engine in its most efficient operating range. For drivers who prioritize fuel savings, the 2.5-liter engine is an excellent choice.

3.5-Liter Engine Fuel Economy

The 2018 Nissan Altima SR with the 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers respectable fuel economy for its power output. It achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. While not as fuel-efficient as the 2.5-liter engine, the V6 still offers a reasonable balance of power and economy. For drivers who want more performance without sacrificing too much fuel efficiency, the V6 engine is a good compromise.

Interior and Exterior Features

Beyond performance, the 2018 Nissan Altima SR offers a range of interior and exterior features that enhance its appeal. These features contribute to the overall comfort, convenience, and style of the vehicle.

Sporty Exterior Styling

The SR trim stands out with its sporty exterior styling, which includes features such as a rear spoiler, smoked headlights, and unique alloy wheels. These elements give the Altima SR a more aggressive and dynamic look compared to other Altima trims. The sporty styling cues make the Altima SR more visually appealing to drivers who want a sedan with a bit of flair.

Comfortable and Well-Equipped Interior

Inside, the 2018 Nissan Altima SR offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior with features such as sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a premium audio system. These features enhance the driving experience and make the Altima SR a pleasant place to spend time. The sport seats provide good support during spirited driving, while the leather-wrapped steering wheel adds a touch of luxury. The premium audio system delivers excellent sound quality, making your favorite music sound even better.

Technology and Convenience

The 2018 Nissan Altima SR comes with a range of technology and convenience features, including a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. These features make it easy to stay connected and entertained on the road. The touchscreen display provides access to navigation, audio controls, and other vehicle functions. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to make hands-free phone calls and stream music wirelessly. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system, allowing you to use your favorite apps on the go.

Conclusion

The 2018 Nissan Altima SR offers a compelling package of sporty styling, comfortable ride, and decent performance. With a choice of two engines, including a 179-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder and a 270-horsepower 3.5-liter V6, the Altima SR caters to a variety of driving preferences. The sport-tuned suspension, paddle shifters, and Active Understeer Control enhance the driving experience, while the comfortable interior and advanced technology features add to the overall appeal. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency or performance, the 2018 Nissan Altima SR is worth considering as a versatile and enjoyable mid-size sedan.