Most 2021 Nissan Altimas have a 0-60 time of 7.4 seconds—but if you have the sporty SR VC-Turbo option, you can slash that number down to 5.8 seconds.
The midsize Altima is a solid family sedan with a long reputation for reliability and value. But it’s not without its sporty side, and can offer some driving fun along with your grocery run. Curious as to just how fast it can go? We’ve got the answers!
2021 Nissan Altima 0-60 time
The base engine that came in the 2021 Nissan Altima was a 2.5-liter, inline-four setup that generated 188 horsepower. With this under the hood, you could go from zero to 60 in 7.4 seconds. The journey to 100 mph took 19.7 seconds, and the Altima could hit the quarter-mile mark in 15.8 seconds.
Which Nissan Altima engine is the fastest?
There were five trim levels offered on the Altima in 2021, but only the mid-range SR trim had the option of the upgraded VC-Turbo engine. This 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four could do zero to 60 in 5.8 seconds and hit the quarter mile in 14.3 seconds.
It’s safe to say that if you’re looking for speed, you’ll want to go for the VC-Turbo.
Can it beat the competition?
How fast the Altima goes depends on which engine we’re talking about. While the base-level engine is respectable and efficient, it’s not setting any records for speed. But if you look at the VC-Turbo version, that’s where the Altima pulls ahead of the competition.
Take a look at how some of the Altima’s competitors stacked up in terms of speed:
If you have the base engine, you’ll be bringing up the rear when it comes to the competition. But with the engine upgrade, the checkered flag is yours!
Another plus? With either engine, the Altima was less expensive than its rivals. The upgraded SR VC-Turbo had an MSRP of $27,645. By comparison, the Lexus started at $39,050, and the Cadillac at around $34,000.
How to shop for car insurance in record time
Jerry partners with more than 50 of the best insurance providers around to find the best coverage options for you, and once you make your pick, Jerry will handle the sign-up process through the app!
On average, Jerry users save more than $800 a year on their car insurance costs—now that’s worth taking 60 seconds to do!