Nissan Altima SR V6
The 2018 Nissan Altima SR offers 270 horsepower and 251 pound-feet of torque when equipped with a V6 engine.
Written by Ethan Moser
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
While some might find the Nissan Altima unremarkable, the 2018 Altima SR set out to change that perception with its silky-smooth ride, optional 270-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine, and a continuously variable automatic transmission.
Manufacturing reliable vehicles since 1933, Nissan’s competitive engineering and affordable price point make the midsize Altima sedan a great choice for everyday commuters. But if you’re in the market for a
Nissan
that packs a punch in the performance department—and is an all-around joy to drive—the Altima SR V6 turns up the power.Is your interest piqued? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from what performance upgrades to expect to how the Altima SR stacks up against the competition.
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2018 Nissan Altima SR V6
Starting price: $24,155
Engine: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, 3.5-liter V6 engine
Horsepower: 179 hp @ 6,400 rpm (I-4), 270 hp @ 6,400 rpm (V6)
Torque: 177 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm (I-4), 251 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm (V6)
0 to 60: 8.0 seconds
By introducing an optional V6 engine upgrade for the 2018 model year, Nissan was able to transform the Altima SR into a sporty, performance-oriented vehicle. In addition to the optional step up from a tame 179-horsepower four-cylinder engine to a more powerful 270-horsepower V6 engine, buyers could also upgrade their driving experience with the 2.5 SR Special Edition Package, adding keyless start, heated front seats, and a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment center with integrated satellite navigation.
Other standout features of the Altima SR V6 include:
- Comprehensive safety features: Nissan packs the 2018 Altima SR V6 with a host of safety and driver-assistance features, including automated emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and traction control.
- Dual-zone automatic climate control: Dual-zone climate control is not available on the base four-cylinder Altima SR, but when you opt for the V6 engine, you’ll also benefit from comfort upgrades including dual-zone climate control and heated front seats.
- Best-in-class infotainment: The SR V6 features a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen with integrated satellite navigation, as well as Bluetooth connectivity, a six-speaker stereo system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto capabilities.
Integrated turn signal mirrors and an onboard hands-free communication system also come standard on any Altima with the V6 engine.
How’s the fuel economy?
While offering more power under the hood, V6 engines tend to be a drain on your gas tank. The Nissan Altima SR V6 struggles in terms of fuel economy when compared to its four-cylinder counterparts. Where the lower-trim
S
and four-cylinder SR
boast 26 mpg city and 37 mpg highway, the SR V6 gets just 22 city/27 highway. Which Nissan Altima models have the V6?
Both the Nissan Altima SR and
SL
trims offer the same powerful V6 engine, with the SR trim priced slightly cheaper. Where the Altima SR V6 boasted a starting MSRP of $24,155 in 2018, the SL V6 would have run you closer to $33,630 when purchased new.How fast is the Nissan Altima V6?
While the Nissan Altima SR’s V6 engine goes a long way in enhancing the sedan’s performance capabilities, it certainly doesn't make this vehicle the fastest car on the road. But it’s no slog, either. When equipped with a V6 engine, the Altima SR can reach 60 mph in 7.4 seconds.
The Altima SR keeps up with the best of the competition in its class. Let’s take a closer look:
Key Takeaway The V6 engine is optional on the Nissan Altima SR and SL trims, offering better performance specs in terms of torque and horsepower while sacrificing some fuel efficiency.
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Which is better: Altima S or SR?
The S and SR are both respectable trim levels on the 2018 Nissan Altima. While the two boast many of the same standard performance and comfort features, only the SR offers the upgrade to the more powerful V6 engine, as well as additional features including a sun/moonroof, performance tires, adaptive cruise control, rear parking aid, electrochromic rearview mirrors, and more.
So which version of the Altima is better? If you’re looking for a performance-driven experience, we’d suggest investing in the Altima SR V6. At their base prices, only $1,000 separate the two trim levels, though you will have to shell out some extra cash for the V6 upgrade.
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4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ driversFAQs
Does the Altima SR come in V6?
Yes—the 2018 Altima SR is available in both a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine.
Are V6 Nissans reliable?
Nissan models feature a host of safety, security, and driver-assistance features that make them remarkably reliable cars to drive. The Nissan Altima SR received a five-star overall safety rating from the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
.Does the 2018 Altima have AWD?
No—the 2018 Nissan Altima is only available in front-wheel drive.
