Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2017 Nissan Altima SR and explore everything you need to know about its horsepower and overall performance. If you're curious about what this sporty sedan packs under the hood, you've come to the right place. We'll cover the engine specs, performance capabilities, and how it all translates to your driving experience. Buckle up; it's going to be an informative ride!

Engine and Horsepower

The heart of the 2017 Nissan Altima SR is its engine, and understanding its horsepower is crucial. The standard engine for the 2017 Altima SR is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a respectable 179 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 177 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. This powertrain is designed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate power for daily driving. The engine features a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) that optimizes the intake and exhaust valve timing, improving performance and efficiency across the engine's operating range.

The 2.5-liter engine is paired with Nissan's Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the CVT uses a system of pulleys and belts to provide a seamless and nearly infinite range of gear ratios. This allows the engine to operate at its most efficient speed for any given driving condition, maximizing fuel economy and delivering smooth acceleration. The Xtronic CVT also includes a manual mode with simulated gear ratios, giving the driver more control over the vehicle's performance when desired. The combination of the 2.5-liter engine and the Xtronic CVT makes the 2017 Altima SR a responsive and fuel-efficient sedan suitable for various driving conditions.

For those looking for even more power, the 2017 Altima SR was also available with an optional 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine significantly boosts the car's horsepower and performance capabilities. It produces 270 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 251 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. This substantial increase in power transforms the Altima SR into a much more spirited and engaging vehicle to drive. The V6 engine also features the CVTCS, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.

Performance and Driving Experience

Alright, let’s get into how this horsepower translates to the actual driving experience of the 2017 Nissan Altima SR. With the standard 2.5-liter engine, the Altima SR offers a smooth and comfortable ride, perfect for commuting and everyday errands. The 179 horsepower provides enough oomph for confident acceleration and merging onto highways. The Xtronic CVT contributes to the car's fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for those who prioritize saving money at the pump. The Altima SR's suspension is tuned to provide a balance of comfort and handling, making it a pleasant car to drive on various road surfaces.

However, if you opt for the available 3.5-liter V6 engine, the driving experience is significantly enhanced. The 270 horsepower transforms the Altima SR into a genuinely quick and exciting sedan. Acceleration is brisk, and the car feels responsive and eager to please. The V6 engine provides ample power for overtaking other vehicles and tackling steep hills. The Altima SR's suspension is also slightly tweaked to handle the additional power, providing improved handling and stability. Overall, the V6-powered Altima SR offers a more engaging and sporty driving experience compared to the standard 2.5-liter model.

The 2017 Nissan Altima SR also comes with several features that enhance its performance and driving experience. These include: Active Understeer Control, which helps improve cornering performance by selectively braking the inside front wheel; Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS), which helps maintain stability and prevent wheel spin; and a sport-tuned suspension, which provides a firmer ride and improved handling. These features work together to make the Altima SR a fun and capable sedan to drive.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is always a key consideration, so let's look at what the 2017 Nissan Altima SR offers. With the 2.5-liter engine, the Altima SR achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. These figures are quite respectable for a mid-size sedan and make the Altima SR a practical choice for daily commuting and long road trips. The Xtronic CVT plays a significant role in achieving these impressive fuel economy numbers by keeping the engine operating at its most efficient speed.

If you opt for the more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine, the fuel economy does take a slight hit, but it's still reasonable considering the added horsepower. The V6-powered Altima SR achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. While these numbers are lower than the 2.5-liter engine, they are still competitive with other V6-powered sedans in its class. The trade-off between fuel economy and horsepower is something to consider when deciding which engine option is right for you.

Nissan also incorporated several technologies to enhance the fuel efficiency of the 2017 Altima SR. These include the aforementioned CVTCS, which optimizes valve timing, and aerodynamic enhancements, such as the car's sleek design and underbody panels, which reduce drag. These features help the Altima SR achieve excellent fuel economy without compromising performance.

Interior and Features

Beyond horsepower and performance, the 2017 Nissan Altima SR boasts a comfortable and well-equipped interior. The SR trim level adds sporty styling cues, such as unique sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and interior trim accents. The seats are designed to provide excellent support and comfort, even on long drives. The interior is also spacious, with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.

The 2017 Nissan Altima SR comes standard with a range of features designed to enhance the driving experience. These include a 5-inch color display, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trim levels add features such as a 7-inch touchscreen display, navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium Bose audio system. The Altima SR also offers a suite of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward emergency braking.

NissanConnect, Nissan's infotainment system, is available on the 2017 Altima SR. This system allows you to connect your smartphone to the car and access various apps and services. You can use NissanConnect to stream music, get directions, make phone calls, and more. The system is user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it a valuable addition to the Altima SR.

Reliability and Safety

Reliability and safety are crucial factors to consider when purchasing any car. The 2017 Nissan Altima SR generally receives good reliability ratings. Nissan has a reputation for building dependable vehicles, and the Altima SR is no exception. Regular maintenance and proper care can help ensure that your Altima SR runs smoothly for many years.

In terms of safety, the 2017 Nissan Altima SR performs well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Altima SR comes standard with a variety of safety features, including antilock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. As mentioned earlier, higher trim levels add advanced safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and forward emergency braking, which can help prevent accidents.

Nissan also offers a comprehensive warranty on the 2017 Altima SR. The warranty covers the car for a certain number of years or miles, protecting you from unexpected repair costs. Be sure to review the warranty details carefully to understand what is covered and what is not.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, folks! The 2017 Nissan Altima SR is a solid choice if you're after a mid-size sedan that blends horsepower, comfort, and tech. Whether you stick with the efficient 2.5-liter engine or opt for the more powerful 3.5-liter V6, you're getting a car designed for everyday practicality with a touch of sportiness. Hopefully, this breakdown has given you a clearer picture of what the Altima SR brings to the table. Happy driving!