Hey guys! Let's dive into the heart of the 2017 Nissan Altima SR and uncover what makes its engine tick. We're talking horsepower, performance, and everything that makes this sedan a fun ride. If you're curious about the power lurking under the hood, you've come to the right place. Let's get started!

Horsepower and Engine Options: What's Under the Hood?

The 2017 Nissan Altima SR boasts a couple of engine options, each delivering a unique blend of power and efficiency. The standard engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, which is the workhorse of the Altima lineup. But let's get to the numbers, because that's what we're all here for, right? This engine churns out a respectable 179 horsepower. That's plenty of pep for your daily commute, zipping around town, or even tackling a road trip. It’s designed to give you a smooth and responsive driving experience, perfect for those who want a balance between power and fuel economy.

Now, if you're the kind of driver who craves a little extra oomph, the Altima SR has an ace up its sleeve: the available 3.5-liter V6 engine. This bad boy ups the ante considerably, delivering a robust 270 horsepower. We're talking about a significant jump in power that transforms the driving experience. With the V6, the Altima SR becomes a seriously quick sedan, capable of effortless acceleration and confident highway cruising. The V6 isn't just about raw power, though; it's about the feeling of having that power on tap, ready to unleash when you need it.

To really appreciate the difference, imagine merging onto a busy highway. With the four-cylinder, you've got ample power to get up to speed, but the V6 gives you that extra surge of acceleration that makes merging feel smooth and stress-free. Or picture yourself tackling a winding road; the V6’s extra horsepower translates to quicker responses and a more engaging driving experience. Whether you choose the four-cylinder or the V6, you're getting an engine that's designed to deliver a rewarding driving experience. Nissan has a knack for building engines that are both reliable and fun to drive, and the 2017 Altima SR is no exception. So, when you're thinking about the 2017 Altima SR, remember that horsepower is just one piece of the puzzle. It's about how that power is delivered, how it feels from behind the wheel, and how it fits into your everyday driving needs. And with the Altima SR, you've got options that cater to a wide range of driving styles and preferences. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency or crave exhilarating performance, there's an Altima SR engine that's just right for you.

Performance Specs and Driving Dynamics

Okay, so we've talked about horsepower, but that's just one piece of the performance puzzle. The 2017 Nissan Altima SR isn't just about straight-line speed; it's about the overall driving experience. Let's dig into the performance specs and driving dynamics that make this sedan a joy to drive.

First up, let's talk about the Continuously Variable Transmission, or CVT. Now, I know what some of you might be thinking: CVTs don't always have the best reputation for sporty driving. But Nissan has really refined its CVT technology, and in the Altima SR, it works seamlessly with both the four-cylinder and V6 engines. The CVT helps to keep the engine in its optimal power range, which translates to smooth acceleration and impressive fuel economy. It's all about maximizing the engine's efficiency while still delivering a responsive feel.

Of course, power is nothing without control, and the Altima SR's suspension is tuned to provide a balanced ride. It's firm enough to handle corners with confidence, but it's also compliant enough to soak up bumps and potholes without jarring you. The SR trim, in particular, gets a sport-tuned suspension that gives it a slightly sharper edge in the handling department. It's not a full-blown sports car, but it definitely feels more engaging than your average family sedan. The steering is another key component of the driving experience, and the Altima SR's steering is nicely weighted and provides decent feedback. You feel connected to the road, which inspires confidence behind the wheel. It's not overly heavy, but it's not so light that it feels disconnected either. It's a good balance that makes the Altima SR easy to drive in a variety of conditions.

When you put it all together – the engine, the CVT, the suspension, and the steering – you get a sedan that's both fun and practical. The Altima SR is comfortable enough for long road trips, but it's also engaging enough to make your daily commute a little more enjoyable. And let's not forget about fuel economy. Even with the V6 engine, the Altima SR delivers respectable gas mileage. Nissan has done a great job of balancing performance and efficiency, so you don't have to sacrifice one for the other. The 2017 Nissan Altima SR strikes a sweet spot. It's not the most powerful or the sportiest sedan on the market, but it offers a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and value. It's a car that you can enjoy driving every day, whether you're cruising on the highway or carving through back roads. The driving dynamics of the Altima SR aren't just about numbers and specs; they're about the feeling you get behind the wheel. And that's what really matters.

SR Trim Specific Features: More Than Just Power

The 2017 Nissan Altima SR isn't just about what's under the hood; it's also about the sporty styling and unique features that set it apart from the rest of the Altima lineup. We've talked about horsepower and performance, but let's take a closer look at what makes the SR trim special.

First off, the SR gets a distinctive exterior makeover that gives it a more aggressive and athletic look. You'll notice the sporty rear spoiler, which not only adds a touch of flair but also improves aerodynamics. The dark chrome grille and smoked headlights give the front end a more menacing appearance, while the 18-inch alloy wheels fill out the wheel wells nicely. These visual cues aren't just for show; they hint at the SR's sportier character. Stepping inside, you'll find sport seats with unique cloth upholstery and blue stitching. These seats are designed to provide extra support during spirited driving, and they look great too. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob add a touch of luxury, while the aluminum pedals give the interior a sporty feel. It's these small details that make the SR feel like a special place to be.

But the SR trim is more than just cosmetic enhancements. It also includes some key performance upgrades. As we mentioned earlier, the sport-tuned suspension gives the SR a sharper handling edge. It's not a huge difference, but it's noticeable, especially when you're tackling corners. The SR also gets paddle shifters, which allow you to manually control the CVT. This gives you a more engaging driving experience, especially when you want to downshift for extra power or hold a gear through a corner. The paddle shifters are a fun addition that makes the SR feel more like a sports sedan.

Beyond the sporty features, the Altima SR also comes with a generous list of standard equipment. You'll find a touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth connectivity. Many SR models also include features like a sunroof, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The SR trim strikes a nice balance between sporty features and everyday practicality. It's a car that looks good, drives well, and is loaded with the features you need for a comfortable and connected driving experience. The unique features of the SR trim enhance the overall driving experience, adding a layer of excitement and exclusivity. It's a testament to Nissan's commitment to providing a well-rounded package that caters to drivers who appreciate both style and substance. The 2017 Altima SR is more than just a sedan; it's a statement.

Comparing the 2017 Altima SR to Competitors

So, how does the 2017 Nissan Altima SR stack up against its rivals? The mid-size sedan segment is a fiercely competitive one, with a host of excellent choices. Let's take a look at how the Altima SR compares to some of its key competitors in terms of horsepower and overall performance.

One of the Altima SR's main rivals is the Toyota Camry. The Camry is known for its reliability and practicality, and its available V6 engine offers similar horsepower to the Altima SR's V6. However, the Altima SR often edges out the Camry in terms of sporty handling and overall driving enjoyment. The Honda Accord is another strong contender in this segment. Like the Altima, the Accord offers a choice of four-cylinder and V6 engines. The Accord's V6 is a bit more powerful than the Altima SR's, but the Altima SR's sport-tuned suspension and responsive CVT can make it feel just as quick in real-world driving situations. The Ford Fusion is another competitor worth considering. The Fusion offers a range of engines, including a turbocharged four-cylinder that delivers impressive performance. The Fusion also boasts stylish looks and a comfortable ride. However, the Altima SR's V6 engine offers a more traditional performance feel, and its sporty styling is sure to appeal to some buyers.

When it comes to horsepower, the Altima SR holds its own against the competition. Its available V6 engine puts it right in the mix with other V6-powered sedans in this class. But horsepower isn't everything. The Altima SR's overall performance is a result of a combination of factors, including its engine, transmission, suspension, and steering. And in these areas, the Altima SR shines. It offers a balanced driving experience that's both fun and practical. One area where the Altima SR really stands out is its value. It offers a lot of features for the money, especially in the SR trim. You get sporty styling, performance upgrades, and a generous list of standard equipment, all at a competitive price. Comparing the 2017 Altima SR to its competitors is not just about horsepower numbers; it’s about the overall package. The Altima SR offers a compelling blend of performance, style, features, and value that makes it a strong contender in the mid-size sedan segment. It's a car that's worth considering if you're looking for a fun-to-drive sedan that won't break the bank.

Is the 2017 Nissan Altima SR the Right Choice for You?

So, after all this talk about horsepower, performance, and features, the big question remains: is the 2017 Nissan Altima SR the right choice for you? Well, that depends on your individual needs and preferences, but let's break down some of the key factors to help you make an informed decision.

If you're looking for a sedan that offers a sporty driving experience without sacrificing everyday practicality, the Altima SR is definitely worth considering. Its sport-tuned suspension, paddle shifters, and available V6 engine make it a fun car to drive, while its comfortable interior and generous list of features make it a great daily driver. If you prioritize fuel economy, the Altima SR's four-cylinder engine delivers impressive gas mileage, while still providing adequate power for most driving situations. And even with the V6, the Altima SR's fuel economy is respectable for its class. If you appreciate sporty styling, the Altima SR's unique exterior and interior enhancements are sure to appeal. The dark chrome grille, rear spoiler, and sport seats give it a distinctive look that sets it apart from other sedans in its class. If value is a key consideration, the Altima SR offers a lot of features for the money. It's competitively priced compared to its rivals, and it comes loaded with standard equipment, especially in the SR trim.

However, the Altima SR might not be the perfect choice for everyone. If you need the absolute most spacious rear seat in the segment, some of its competitors might offer a bit more room. And if you're looking for the most cutting-edge technology, some other sedans might have a slight edge in terms of infotainment and driver-assistance features. But overall, the 2017 Nissan Altima SR is a well-rounded sedan that offers a lot to like. It's a car that's fun to drive, stylish, and practical, all at a competitive price. So, if you're in the market for a mid-size sedan, be sure to give the Altima SR a close look. It might just be the perfect car for you. When making your final decision, consider what you value most in a car. Do you prioritize performance, fuel economy, styling, features, or value? The 2017 Altima SR excels in many of these areas, making it a strong contender in the mid-size sedan segment. Remember to take a test drive and experience the Altima SR for yourself. That's the best way to determine if it's the right fit for your needs and driving style. Happy car shopping!