Let's dive into the 2017 Nissan Altima SR and uncover everything you need to know about its horsepower and overall performance. If you're a car enthusiast or simply looking for a reliable and sporty sedan, the Altima SR might just be the perfect fit. We'll explore the engine specs, performance capabilities, and how it stacks up against the competition. So, buckle up and get ready for a detailed look at what makes the 2017 Altima SR tick.

The 2017 Nissan Altima SR is more than just a stylish sedan; it's a statement of performance and reliability. When you're considering a car, especially one with the SR badge, you're probably wondering about what's under the hood. The Altima SR doesn't disappoint, offering a blend of efficiency and power that makes it a compelling choice for daily driving and weekend adventures. The horsepower figures are crucial, of course, but it’s also about how that power is delivered, the driving experience, and the overall feel of the car. Nissan has a reputation for building solid engines, and the 2017 Altima SR is no exception. It's designed to provide a smooth, responsive ride, whether you're cruising on the highway or navigating city streets. Plus, the SR trim adds a touch of sportiness with enhanced handling and a more aggressive look, making it stand out from the standard Altima models. So, let's get into the specifics and see exactly what the 2017 Altima SR brings to the table in terms of horsepower and performance.

Engine and Horsepower

The heart of the 2017 Nissan Altima SR is its engine, and understanding its specifications is key to appreciating its performance. The standard engine for the 2017 Altima SR is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine is designed to provide a balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for everyday use. The horsepower rating for this engine is around 179 hp at 6,000 rpm. This means the engine can generate a significant amount of power, allowing for brisk acceleration and confident highway merging. The torque, which is a measure of the engine's pulling power, is rated at 177 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm. This torque figure ensures that the car feels responsive and capable, even when carrying passengers or cargo. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to optimize fuel economy and provide smooth, seamless acceleration.

Now, let's talk more about that 2.5-liter engine. It's not just about the numbers; it's about how those numbers translate to the driving experience. The 179 horsepower is more than adequate for most driving situations. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or taking a road trip, the Altima SR has enough power to get the job done. The engine is also designed to be relatively quiet and refined, so you won't experience excessive noise or vibration, even when pushing it hard. The CVT transmission plays a crucial role in maximizing the engine's potential. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the CVT can continuously adjust the gear ratio to keep the engine operating at its most efficient point. This results in improved fuel economy and smoother acceleration. However, some drivers find that CVTs can feel a bit different than traditional automatics, especially during hard acceleration. But overall, the combination of the 2.5-liter engine and CVT transmission in the 2017 Altima SR provides a balanced and enjoyable driving experience.

Performance and Handling

Beyond just horsepower, the 2017 Nissan Altima SR offers a well-rounded performance package. The SR trim is designed to provide a sportier driving experience compared to the base Altima models. This includes a sport-tuned suspension, which helps to improve handling and reduce body roll in corners. The steering is also more responsive, giving you a better feel for the road. All of these factors combine to make the Altima SR a fun and engaging car to drive.

The sport-tuned suspension is a key element of the Altima SR's performance. It features stiffer springs and dampers, which help to control body movements and keep the car planted in corners. This doesn't mean the ride is harsh or uncomfortable; Nissan has done a good job of finding a balance between sporty handling and everyday comfort. The steering is also more precise and communicative in the SR model. This allows you to place the car exactly where you want it on the road and gives you more confidence when navigating twisty roads. The Altima SR also comes with larger wheels and tires, which further enhance its handling capabilities. The wider tires provide more grip, allowing you to corner harder and accelerate more quickly. The combination of the sport-tuned suspension, responsive steering, and larger wheels and tires makes the Altima SR a surprisingly capable performer. It's not a sports car, but it's definitely more fun to drive than your average family sedan. The 2017 Nissan Altima SR strikes a nice balance between practicality and performance, making it a great choice for drivers who want a car that can do it all. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or enjoying a weekend drive, the Altima SR is up to the task. It's a comfortable, reliable, and surprisingly fun car to drive.

Fuel Economy

While horsepower and performance are important, fuel economy is also a key consideration for many car buyers. The 2017 Nissan Altima SR delivers respectable fuel economy numbers, making it a practical choice for daily driving. The EPA estimates for the 2.5-liter engine are around 27 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. These figures are competitive for the mid-size sedan class and mean you won't have to break the bank to keep your Altima SR filled with gas.

Let's break down those fuel economy numbers a bit more. The 27 mpg city rating means that you can expect to get decent mileage even in stop-and-go traffic. The 38 mpg highway rating is even more impressive, making the Altima SR a great choice for long road trips. Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. Aggressive driving, such as frequent hard acceleration and braking, will reduce your fuel economy. Similarly, driving in heavy traffic or on hilly terrain will also impact your mileage. To maximize your fuel economy, try to drive smoothly and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. Also, make sure your tires are properly inflated and that your car is properly maintained. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tune-ups, can help to keep your engine running efficiently and improve your fuel economy. Overall, the 2017 Nissan Altima SR offers a good balance of power and fuel economy. You don't have to sacrifice performance to get decent gas mileage, and you don't have to spend a fortune on fuel. The Altima SR is a practical and efficient choice for everyday driving.

Features of the SR Trim

The 2017 Nissan Altima SR isn't just about performance; it also comes with a range of features that enhance its appeal. The SR trim includes sporty exterior styling, unique interior accents, and a variety of technology features. Some of the key features of the SR trim include: Sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, Smoked headlight housings, Rear spoiler, Sport seats with unique cloth upholstery, Leather-wrapped steering wheel, Paddle shifters, and a 5-inch display screen.

The sporty exterior styling of the Altima SR sets it apart from the other Altima models. The 18-inch alloy wheels give it a more aggressive stance, while the smoked headlight housings and rear spoiler add to its sporty look. The sport seats with unique cloth upholstery provide more support and comfort than the standard seats. The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels great in your hands and adds a touch of luxury to the interior. The paddle shifters allow you to manually control the CVT transmission, giving you more control over the car's performance. The 5-inch display screen provides access to various vehicle information and settings. The SR trim also includes a range of standard features, such as Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and keyless entry. Overall, the 2017 Nissan Altima SR offers a compelling package of features and performance. It's a stylish, sporty, and well-equipped sedan that's sure to impress. Whether you're looking for a fun-to-drive car or a practical and reliable daily driver, the Altima SR is worth considering. The combination of its sporty styling, enhanced performance, and useful features makes it a standout in the mid-size sedan class. So, if you're in the market for a new car, be sure to check out the 2017 Nissan Altima SR. You might just find that it's the perfect car for you.

Comparison with Competitors

When considering the 2017 Nissan Altima SR, it's important to see how it stacks up against its competitors. The mid-size sedan market is crowded with excellent options, so let's take a look at how the Altima SR compares in terms of horsepower, performance, and features.

Competitors like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Mazda 6 all offer similar levels of performance and features. The Honda Accord is known for its refined driving experience and spacious interior. The Toyota Camry is renowned for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The Mazda 6 is praised for its sporty handling and stylish design. In terms of horsepower, the Altima SR's 179 hp is competitive with these rivals. However, some competitors offer optional engines with more power. For example, the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry are available with V6 engines that produce over 250 horsepower. In terms of handling, the Mazda 6 is generally considered to be the sportiest of the bunch. Its sharp steering and well-controlled body motions make it a joy to drive on twisty roads. The Altima SR offers a good balance of handling and comfort, but it's not quite as sporty as the Mazda 6. In terms of features, the Altima SR is well-equipped, but some competitors offer more advanced technology features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize reliability and fuel efficiency, the Toyota Camry might be a good choice. If you want a sporty driving experience, the Mazda 6 is worth considering. If you're looking for a well-rounded sedan with a good balance of performance and features, the 2017 Nissan Altima SR is definitely worth a look. It offers a compelling combination of style, performance, and value. And with its sporty SR trim, it stands out from the crowd.