2024 Nissan Altima 2.0 SR Engine: A Powerful and Reliable Mid-Size Sedan
The 2024 Nissan Altima 2.0 SR is one of the most exciting sedans in the mid-size segment for drivers looking for a combination of performance reliability and style. While Nissan’s Altima has been a staple in the automotive industry for decades, the 2.0 SR version takes things up a notch. With a sleek design, modern technology, and a sporty turbocharged engine under the hood, the 2024 Altima stands out among its competitors.
What’s Under the Hood?
The heart of the 2024 Nissan Altima 2.0 SR is its 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine. This engine is a marvel of engineering and offers a unique driving experience. Unlike traditional engines, the VC-Turbo (Variable Compression Turbo) is capable of adjusting its compression ratio on the fly. This means it can deliver high power when you need it or optimize fuel efficiency when you’re cruising. It’s like having two engines in one, offering drivers the best of both worlds.
The 2.0-liter engine produces an impressive 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This is more than enough power for most drivers, and it makes the Altima feel quick and responsive on the road.
Performance on the Road
When it comes to performance, the 2024 Altima 2.0 SR doesn’t disappoint. Whether you’re merging onto the highway or taking a tight corner, this sedan feels agile and composed. The VC-Turbo engine delivers power smoothly, and the Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) does an excellent job of keeping the car in the right powerband.
One of the standout features of the Altima is its sport-tuned suspension in the 2.0 SR trim. This gives the car a firmer ride, which translates to better handling, especially on winding roads. However, this firmer suspension might feel a bit too stiff for drivers who prefer a softer, more cushioned ride. The firmer suspension can make bumps and potholes more noticeable. This could be a drawback for those prioritizing comfort.
Interior: A Mix of Comfort and Sportiness
Step inside the 2024 Altima 2.0 SR, and you’re greeted with a sporty and upscale cabin. The SR trim comes with leather-wrapped steering wheel and paddle shifters that give it a racier vibe. The seats are well-bolstered, providing excellent support during spirited driving. However, some might find the seats a bit too snug, especially on long trips.
The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is user-friendly and comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which are a must-have for staying connected on the go. There’s also an available 9-speaker Bose sound system for those who love their music. That said, the screen resolution might not be the sharpest compared to some competitors. A few users have mentioned that it could use a slight upgrade in terms of crispness.
Safety and Driver Assistance
In terms of safety, Nissan has equipped the 2024 Altima 2.0 SR with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Nissan Safety Shield 360 comes standard, which includes:
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Blind-Spot Warning
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Lane Departure Warning
- High Beam Assist
One of the more advanced systems is the ProPILOT Assist, which is an adaptive cruise control system that can also help with lane centering on highways. It’s not fully autonomous driving, but it takes a lot of stress out of long trips.
However, one thing to note is that while the ProPILOT Assist system works well on highways, it can sometimes struggle in heavy traffic, especially when there are a lot of lane changes or sudden stops. It’s a fantastic feature, but drivers should be aware that it’s not perfect in every scenario.
Fuel Efficiency
One of the selling points of the VC-Turbo engine is its ability to adjust its compression ratio to optimize fuel efficiency. On paper, the 2024 Altima 2.0 SR achieves an EPA-estimated 25 MPG city and 34 MPG highway, which is solid for a car with this level of performance. However, real-world results may vary. Some drivers have reported slightly lower fuel efficiency, especially if they tend to drive more aggressively or in stop-and-go traffic.
Potential Drawbacks of the 2024 Nissan Altima 2.0 SR
While the 2024 Nissan Altima 2.0 SR is an excellent car overall, there are a few potential drawbacks that are worth mentioning:
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Ride Comfort: As mentioned earlier, the sport-tuned suspension in the SR trim can make the ride feel a bit stiff for some. If you’re used to a softer ride, this might take some getting used to.
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Interior Materials: While the cabin is stylish and well-laid-out, some of the materials used, especially on the lower parts of the dashboard and doors, feel a bit cheap compared to some of the Altima’s competitors. This might not be a deal-breaker, but for those expecting a truly premium experience, it’s something to be aware of.
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Infotainment Screen: The 8-inch touchscreen is functional, but the graphics could be sharper. It’s not a huge issue, but when compared to some of the newer systems in cars like the Honda Accord or the Toyota Camry, it feels a bit dated.
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Real-World Fuel Economy: While the VC-Turbo engine is designed to be fuel-efficient, some drivers have reported that their real-world fuel economy doesn’t quite match up with the EPA estimates, especially in city driving.
Owner’s Take: Alex Collantes on the 2024 Altima 2.0 SR
I had the chance to speak with Alex Collantes, a long-time Nissan fan and current owner of the 2024 Altima 2.0 SR. Here’s what he had to say about his experience:
"I’ve owned a lot of cars over the years, but this Altima 2.0 SR really stands out to me. The engine is just incredible—it feels like a much more expensive car when you step on the gas. I also really appreciate the technology inside. It’s easy to use, and the Apple CarPlay works great. My only complaint, and it’s a small one, is that the suspension is a bit firm for my taste. I live in a city with a lot of potholes, so I definitely feel them more in this car compared to my old Altima."
Pricing and Value
For those considering the 2024 Nissan Altima 2.0 SR, the starting price is around $35,000, depending on options and packages. This positions it competitively in the mid-size sedan segment, especially considering the VC-Turbo engine and the sporty design of the SR trim. When you look at competitors like the Toyota Camry TRD or the Honda Accord Sport, the Altima holds its own in terms of performance and features.
How the Altima Compares to Competitors
1. Toyota Camry TRD
The Toyota Camry TRD is one of the Altima’s biggest competitors in the sporty mid-size sedan segment. It comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers more horsepower than the Altima’s VC-Turbo, but it also sacrifices some fuel efficiency. The Camry’s handling is sharp, but its ride is even stiffer than the Altima’s, making it less comfortable for daily driving.
2. Honda Accord Sport
The Honda Accord Sport is another strong competitor. It offers a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine similar to the Altima’s, but the Accord’s interior is more refined. The Honda also has a 10-speed automatic transmission, which some drivers may prefer over Nissan’s CVT. However, the Altima’s VC-Turbo engine is more advanced in terms of technology, and its ability to change compression ratios gives it a slight edge in fuel efficiency.
Why You Should Consider the 2024 Nissan Altima 2.0 SR
There are a few key reasons why the 2024 Nissan Altima 2.0 SR should be at the top of your list if you’re shopping for a sporty mid-size sedan:
- Performance: The VC-Turbo engine is a game-changer in this segment. It offers strong acceleration without sacrificing fuel efficiency.
- Technology: With features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and ProPILOT Assist, the Altima is loaded with useful tech.
- Design: The SR trim adds sporty touches that make the Altima stand out, both inside and out.
Final Thoughts
In the competitive mid-size sedan market, the 2024 Nissan Altima 2.0 SR is a standout choice for drivers looking for a blend of performance, technology, and style. While it has a few minor drawbacks, like the firm ride and dated infotainment screen, its VC-Turbo engine and sporty design make it an appealing option. Whether you’re commuting to work or taking a weekend road trip, the 2024 Altima 2.0 SR offers a driving experience that’s hard to beat.