The 2020 Nissan Altima Sr stands out as a compelling option in the mid-size sedan segment, injecting a dose of sporty flair into the practical and reliable Altima lineup. Building on the foundation of the sixth-generation Altima, the SR trim enhances the driving experience with unique styling cues, performance-oriented features, and a suite of advanced technologies. For those seeking a sedan that blends everyday usability with a touch of excitement, the 2020 Nissan Altima SR warrants a closer look.
Sporty Design and Dynamic Styling of the 2020 Altima SR
The 2020 Altima SR distinguishes itself from other trims with a more aggressive and athletic aesthetic. Nissan’s designers have incorporated specific visual elements to emphasize the “Sport Roadster” spirit of this model.
Striking Exterior Features
The exterior of the 2020 Nissan Altima SR boasts several unique touches:
- 19-inch Aluminum-Alloy Wheels: Larger wheels not only enhance the vehicle’s stance but also contribute to sharper handling. The specific design of these alloy wheels is exclusive to the SR trim, adding to its visual appeal.
- Dark Chrome Grille: The signature V-motion grille, a hallmark of Nissan’s design language, is rendered in dark chrome on the SR, providing a more menacing and sporty front fascia.
- LED Projector Headlights: Standard LED projector headlights not only offer superior illumination but also feature a distinctive design that further accentuates the Altima SR’s modern and aggressive look.
- Black Exterior Accents: Black side mirror caps and body-colored door handles, coupled with a unique rear diffuser color, contribute to a cohesive sporty theme, setting the SR apart from the chrome-laden trims.
- Exhaust Finishers: Visible exhaust finishers add a final touch of sportiness to the rear, hinting at the potential performance under the hood.
These exterior enhancements work in harmony to create a 2020 Nissan Altima SR that visually communicates its sporty intentions, appealing to drivers who desire a sedan with a more dynamic presence.
Interior Sport-Inspired Elements
Inside the 2020 Altima SR, the sporty theme continues with interior appointments designed to enhance the driving experience:
- Sport Interior with Sport Seats: The seats in the SR trim are uniquely designed to offer enhanced bolstering, providing better support during spirited driving. The sport interior trim further differentiates the SR cabin.
- Leather-Appointed Steering Wheel: A leather-wrapped steering wheel provides a premium feel and improved grip, essential for a sporty driving experience.
- Paddle Shifters: For drivers who enjoy a more engaging driving experience, the inclusion of paddle shifters allows for manual gear control, adding another layer of sportiness to the 2020 Nissan Altima SR.
Performance and Engine Choices for the 2020 Altima SR
The 2020 Nissan Altima SR offers a choice of two distinct engine options, catering to different performance preferences.
The Thrilling VC-Turbo Engine
For those seeking exhilarating performance, the 2020 Altima SR is available with Nissan’s revolutionary 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine. This engine is a standout in its class, offering:
- Variable Compression Technology: The VC-Turbo engine is the world’s first production-ready variable compression turbo engine. This innovative technology adjusts the engine’s compression ratio in real-time, optimizing for either power or fuel efficiency as needed.
- Impressive Power Output: The 2.0-liter VC-Turbo delivers 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque (on premium fuel), comparable to some V6 engines while maintaining 4-cylinder fuel economy.
- Enhanced Fuel Efficiency: Despite its powerful output, the VC-Turbo engine achieves respectable fuel economy figures, estimated at 25 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined.
The VC-Turbo engine transforms the 2020 Nissan Altima SR into a genuinely quick and responsive sedan, providing a thrilling driving experience that sets it apart in the mid-size segment.
Standard 2.5-liter Engine and Available AWD
The 2020 Altima SR also comes standard with Nissan’s refined 2.5-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.
- Adequate Power: The 2.5-liter engine produces 188 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque in FWD configuration, providing ample power for daily driving needs.
- Fuel-Efficient Performance: This engine is designed for efficiency, achieving up to 27 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined for the FWD SR model.
- Intelligent All-Wheel Drive Availability: While the VC-Turbo is FWD only, the 2.5-liter engine in the 2020 Altima SR can be paired with Nissan’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system. This AWD system enhances traction and stability in various weather conditions, making the Altima SR a capable all-weather sedan.
Sport-Tuned Suspension and Handling
To complement its sporty styling and engine options, the 2020 Nissan Altima SR features a sport-tuned suspension (on FWD models).
- Enhanced Handling Dynamics: The sport suspension is calibrated to provide a firmer and more controlled ride, reducing body roll in corners and enhancing driver confidence.
- Responsive Steering: The dual-pinion electric power steering system is tuned to offer a more direct and communicative feel, contributing to a more engaging driving experience.
These chassis enhancements ensure that the 2020 Nissan Altima SR not only looks sporty but also delivers a more dynamic and enjoyable driving experience compared to standard Altima trims.
Technology and Safety Features in the 2020 Altima SR
The 2020 Nissan Altima SR is not just about sporty looks and performance; it’s also equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced technology and safety features.
ProPILOT Assist and Driving Dynamics
The 2020 Altima SR (on SV trim and above, SR is positioned above S trim) offers Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist technology, a driver-assistance system that enhances driving convenience and safety:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: ProPILOT Assist can maintain a set speed and automatically adjust to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Lane Keep Assist: The system can provide steering assistance to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane on the highway.
- Traffic Jam Assist: In stop-and-go traffic, ProPILOT Assist can help manage acceleration, braking, and steering, reducing driver fatigue.
While ProPILOT Assist is not exclusive to the SR trim, its availability enhances the overall driving experience, especially on longer journeys.
Nissan Safety Shield 360 Standard
A significant enhancement for the 2020 Nissan Altima SR is the inclusion of Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard equipment. This suite of safety technologies provides all-around protection:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: Helps prevent or mitigate frontal collisions by automatically applying the brakes if a collision risk is detected.
- Rear Automatic Braking: Can detect stationary objects when reversing and automatically apply the brakes to prevent a collision.
- Blind Spot Warning: Alerts the driver to vehicles detected in blind spot areas.
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Warns the driver of approaching traffic when backing out of a parking space.
- Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle starts to drift out of its lane.
- High Beam Assist: Automatically switches between high and low beams based on oncoming traffic.
The standard inclusion of Safety Shield 360 underscores Nissan’s commitment to safety in the 2020 Nissan Altima SR, providing drivers with peace of mind and enhanced protection.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2020 Nissan Altima SR keeps occupants connected and entertained with a range of infotainment features:
- 8-inch Touchscreen Display: A standard 8-inch color touchscreen display serves as the central hub for infotainment functions.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Seamless smartphone integration is provided through standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
- NissanConnect Services: Available NissanConnect Services powered by SiriusXM offer features like remote engine start, remote door lock/unlock, and more, accessible via smartphone or smartwatch.
- Advanced Drive-Assist Display: A 7.0-inch Advanced Drive-Assist Display in the instrument cluster provides key vehicle information and customizable displays.
These technology features ensure that the 2020 Nissan Altima SR is well-equipped for modern connectivity and infotainment needs.
2020 Altima SR Trim and Key Features
The 2020 Nissan Altima SR trim builds upon the base Altima S trim and adds a significant number of sporty and convenience features.
SR Specific Enhancements
In addition to the styling and performance features already discussed, the 2020 Altima SR includes:
- Sport Cloth Seat Trim: Unique sport cloth upholstery enhances the sporty interior ambiance.
- Sport Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel and Shift Knob: Adds a premium feel and sporty touch points.
- Paddle Shifters: For manual gear control and a more engaging driving experience (VC-Turbo models).
- Sport-Tuned Suspension (FWD): Provides sharper handling and a more controlled ride.
Available Upgrades
While the 2020 Altima SR is well-equipped as standard, buyers can further enhance it with optional packages and features, such as premium paint colors and accessory upgrades. The Driver Assist Package available on the base S trim brings Safety Shield 360 technology down the Altima lineup, highlighting Nissan’s focus on broad safety availability, and by default, it’s standard on SR.
Conclusion: The 2020 Nissan Altima SR – A Sporty and Refined Sedan
The 2020 Nissan Altima SR successfully blends sporty styling, engaging performance (especially with the VC-Turbo engine), and a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features. It caters to drivers who appreciate the practicality of a mid-size sedan but desire a vehicle with a more dynamic character and visual appeal. With its distinctive design elements, available VC-Turbo engine, and standard Safety Shield 360, the 2020 Nissan Altima SR stands as a compelling and well-rounded option in the competitive sedan market, offering an elevated sporty sedan experience without compromising on everyday usability and comfort.
