FWD versus AWD, equipment, fuel economy, ride quality, common buying checks, and how the 2.5 SR differs from the VC-Turbo
| 2022 Altima 2.5 SR fact | Details |
| Engine | 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder |
| Output, FWD | 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque |
| Output, AWD | 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque |
| Transmission | Xtronic continuously variable automatic transmission |
| Drivetrains | Front-wheel drive or Intelligent All-Wheel Drive |
| EPA economy, FWD | 27 mpg city, 37 mpg highway |
| EPA economy, AWD | 25 mpg city, 35 mpg highway |
| Wheels and suspension | 19-inch wheels and SR sport-tuned suspension |
| Passenger and cargo space | Five seats and approximately 15 cubic feet of trunk volume |
| Original SR FWD MSRP | Approximately $27,945 including destination |
| Verdict in 30 seconds
The 2022 Altima 2.5 SR is a stylish, efficient commuter with comfortable seats, a roomy cabin, and available AWD. Its 2.5-liter engine is dependable in character but not quick, and the 19-inch wheels make the ride firmer than lower trims. Buy it for design, fuel economy, and all-weather usability, not for sports-sedan performance. |
2022 Nissan Altima 2.5 SR is the naturally aspirated version of the sporty-looking SR trim. It should not be confused with the Altima SR VC-Turbo, which uses a more powerful 2.0-liter turbo engine and was sold only with front-wheel drive. The 2.5 SR offers either FWD or AWD and favors efficiency over acceleration.
As a used car, the 2.5 SR can be a sensible alternative to a similarly aged Toyota Camry SE, Honda Accord Sport, Kia K5, or Subaru Legacy. Its strongest qualities are supportive front seats, simple controls, good highway mileage, and a more aggressive appearance than the S or SV. The compromises are CVT noise under hard acceleration, a firmer ride, and only modest passing power.
What Makes the 2.5 SR Different?
The SR trim adds appearance and chassis changes rather than a stronger 2.5-liter engine. It receives 19-inch alloy wheels, dark exterior details, a sport-tuned suspension, paddle shifters, sport-themed interior trim, and a more aggressive body treatment. For 2022, Nissan also offered a Midnight Edition package with black exterior accents.
| Feature area | 2.5 SR advantage | Tradeoff |
| Exterior | Sharper bumpers, larger wheels, dark trim | Tires can cost more to replace |
| Handling | Quicker-feeling responses and firmer tuning | Ride is less cushioned on broken pavement |
| Cabin | Sport seats, paddle shifters, distinctive trim | Materials remain mainstream rather than premium |
| AWD option | More traction in snow and rain | Slightly less power and lower fuel economy |
| Value | More visual character than SV | Does not gain the VC-Turbo engine |
Engine and Performance
The 2.5-liter engine produces 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft in front-wheel-drive form. AWD models are rated at 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft. Both use a CVT rather than a conventional stepped automatic. Acceleration is adequate for commuting, but a full passenger load or short highway passing zone can expose the engine’s limited reserve.
Car and Driver praised the Altima’s precise steering, fuel efficiency, comfortable seats, and predictable road manners, while noting that the standard engine becomes noisy when pushed and that the SR’s 19-inch wheel-and-tire package reduces ride comfort. Read the full 2022 Nissan Altima review. The publication rated the model 8 out of 10 and described it as a user-friendly family sedan rather than an enthusiast car.
2.5 SR Versus SR VC-Turbo
| Specification | 2.5 SR FWD | 2.5 SR AWD | SR VC-Turbo |
| Engine | 2.5L naturally aspirated | 2.5L naturally aspirated | 2.0L variable-compression turbo |
| Horsepower | 188 hp | 182 hp | Up to 248 hp on premium fuel |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD | FWD only |
| Character | Efficient and adequate | All-weather focused | Significantly quicker |
| Used-buyer concern | Check CVT service and tires | Check all four tires and AWD operation | Check engine history and VIN-specific recalls |
| Confirm the badge and VIN
Dealership advertisements sometimes shorten both versions to Altima SR. Verify the engine code, drivetrain, horsepower listing, window sticker, and VIN before assuming the car has the turbo engine. |
FWD or AWD?
Choose FWD for lower weight, slightly better mileage, and a simpler ownership profile. Choose AWD when the car will regularly face snow, steep wet roads, or poorly cleared winter parking areas. AWD improves traction from a stop but does not replace winter tires or shorten braking distances.
On an AWD example, inspect all four tires for matching brand, model, size, and similar tread depth. Uneven tires can affect drivetrain operation. Listen for humming or vibration, and confirm that no AWD warning light appears during the test drive.
Fuel Economy and Daily Use
The SR FWD is rated at 27 mpg city and 37 mpg highway, while the AWD version is rated at 25 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. Regular gasoline keeps operating costs manageable. Highway drivers may achieve strong real-world results, although short trips, cold weather, aggressive acceleration, and worn tires reduce mileage.
The cabin is one of the Altima’s better qualities. The front seats are comfortable for long drives, rear legroom is generous for the class, and the trunk provides about 15 cubic feet. The rear seatbacks fold, although they do not create a completely flat load floor.
Technology and Safety
The SR typically includes an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keyless access, push-button start, a power driver’s seat, and Nissan driver-assistance features. Equipment can vary with packages, so do not assume that every SR includes heated seats, a sunroof, Bose audio, navigation, or a surround-view camera.
Nissan’s 2022 press information confirms the standard 2.5-liter engine, SR sport-tuned suspension, available AWD, Safety Shield 360 features, and Midnight Edition availability. Review Nissan’s official 2022 Altima press kit. Use the original window sticker or a VIN-based build sheet to identify the exact factory equipment.
Used-Car Inspection Checklist
| Area | What to inspect | Why it matters |
| CVT | Smooth takeoff, no shudder, flare, whining, or delayed engagement | Transmission repairs can be expensive |
| 19-inch wheels | Bent rims, curb damage, vibration, mismatched tires | Low-profile tires are vulnerable to impact damage |
| Suspension | Clunks, uneven tire wear, pulling, harsh impacts | SR tuning and large wheels expose worn parts |
| Body | Panel gaps, paint mismatch, underbody scrapes | Can reveal accident or curb damage |
| Electronics | Touchscreen, cameras, USB ports, Bluetooth, driver aids | Intermittent faults can be difficult to reproduce |
| AWD system | Matching tires and no warning lights | Tire differences can stress the system |
| Service history | Oil changes, brake service, CVT records, tire replacement | Consistent maintenance supports value |
Recall and VIN Checks
Run the VIN through NHTSA and Nissan before purchase because recalls apply by build date and equipment. Do not assume that every 2022 Altima has the same campaigns. Confirm that any open recall has a completed dealer repair record rather than relying only on the seller’s statement.
The widely reported 2025 variable-compression engine recall included certain 2019 and 2020 Altimas with the turbo engine, not the naturally aspirated 2022 2.5 SR. Even so, a VIN check remains essential because other campaigns or service actions may apply to an individual car.
Who Should Buy It?
- A commuter who values fuel economy and comfortable front seats
- A snow-belt driver who wants an affordable AWD sedan
- A buyer who prefers sporty styling without turbo-engine costs
- A family that needs useful rear-seat and trunk space
- A shopper willing to accept modest acceleration and a firm ride
Skip it when quick acceleration, a soft ride, hybrid fuel economy, or true sports-sedan handling is the priority. A Camry Hybrid, Accord 2.0T, Altima VC-Turbo, or another rival may fit those goals better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2022 Altima 2.5 SR turbocharged?
No. The 2.5 SR uses a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine. The separately named SR VC-Turbo uses the 2.0-liter turbo engine.
Does the 2.5 SR have AWD?
It was available with either front-wheel drive or Intelligent All-Wheel Drive.
How much horsepower does it have?
FWD models are rated at 188 horsepower, while AWD models are rated at 182 horsepower.
Is the SR ride comfortable?
It is reasonably comfortable, but the sport suspension and 19-inch wheels create a firmer ride than lower Altima trims.
What fuel does it use?
The 2.5-liter engine is designed for regular unleaded gasoline.
What should I check before buying?
Inspect the CVT, wheels, tires, suspension, electronics, accident history, service records, and VIN-specific recall status.
Final Verdict
The 2022 Altima 2.5 SR is a good-looking and efficient used sedan with useful space, comfortable seats, and optional AWD. Its 2.5-liter engine is better suited to routine commuting than enthusiastic driving, but it can deliver low operating costs when the CVT, tires, and maintenance history are in good condition.
The best purchase is a clean, unmodified example with matching tires, complete records, a smooth CVT, and equipment verified by the VIN. Choose FWD for efficiency and AWD for winter traction, and make sure the seller has not confused the 2.5 SR with the faster SR VC-Turbo.
