2025 Nissan Altima Stays Within Budget, Sacrifices Rare Engine Upgrade

has recently highlighted the cost-effectiveness of its vehicle lineup, particularly emphasizing models that start below $30,000. This strategy is increasingly as new car prices continue to rise, with many manufacturers focusing on larger, more expensive SUVs and trucks.

Nissan’s approach, which leans heavily on cars and smaller SUVs, offers a distinct advantage in the current market. A key example of this is the Nissan Altima midsize sedan, which enters the 2025 model year with few changes but introduces a new value-oriented package for the Altima SV trim.

A remarkable absence, however, is the elimination of the range-topping Altima SR VC-Turbo model, along with its unique 248-hp variable-compression turbo engine. The entire Altima range will now be powered exclusively by the 188-hp 2.5-liter I-4 engine, which was already the dominant choice in the lineup last year.

Although Nissan hasn’t provided a detailed explanation for discontinuing the VC-Turbo engine, it’s likely due to limited demand for the $37,210-and-up model. This shift mirrors moves by competitors like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, which have also phased out their more powerful turbocharged or V-6 engine options in recent years.

The VC-Turbo was a technological marvel, capable of adjusting its compression ratio to optimize both performance and efficiency. However, while its power figures were respectable—248 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque—they weren’t groundbreaking. Its fuel economy was decent, achieving 25 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and 29 mpg combined.

For 2025, the remaining non-turbo engine offers better fuel efficiency, with front-wheel-drive models achieving 27 mpg city, 39 mpg highway, and 32 mpg combined. All-wheel-drive models, available across all trims except the base Altima S, see slightly lower figures, closely matching last year’s VC-Turbo performance.

The Altima continues to use its continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The most important update for the 2025 Altima is the introduction of the SV Special Edition package. This package enhances the SV trim with features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a moonroof.

It also includes visual enhancements, such as 17-inch gloss-black wheels, illuminated door sill plates, carbon-fiber-look center console trim, a visible exhaust tip, a rear spoiler, and remote engine start. While specific pricing details for the Altima’s new options haven’t been released, the SV Special Edition package is expected to be more affordable than the existing SV Premium Package.

The latter includes features like heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, power lumbar support for the driver, the 12.3-inch touchscreen, a wireless charging pad, dual-zone automatic climate control, ProPilot Assist with steering and adaptive cruise control, and a moonroof. The 2025 Nissan Altima, now available for purchase, has seen only slight price increases, with the entry-level Altima S rising by $630 and other trims increasing by $260.