Nissan actually builds a “rare” version of one of its most mocked models
If you’re in or orbiting the car world, you already know that the Nissan Altima suffers ongoing social bruising. And if you’re not in on this, you just might start seeing actually bruised Altimas around town. Since the hashtag #altimaactivities launched some time ago, witnesses of the sedans getting into odd situations or just appearing in less-than-pristine condition share their sightings on social media.
Of course, the used Altimas we see everywhere these days are still around, well, because they’re unarguably a decent bet for folks looking for a pretty cheap midsize sedan. What’s more, many drivers might not be aware that the automaker will plug an impressively advanced engine option into its Altima Sport-Rally (or SR) trim. It’s called the Altima SR VC-T.
So, what is a variable compression engine?
We’re going to technical for sec here:
A variable compression ratio (VCR) engine contains an extra shaft and several jointed links on each piston. Unlike a traditional crankshaft and connecting rod, which has an unadjustable compression ratio, a VCR engine can adjust the position of the piston based on desired fuel efficiency, speed, or load.
If you’re interested, Nissan also wrote up a nice, complex explanation of its industry-first VCR engine.
The OEM made the engine available in multiple models, and the Altima is one of them.
The 2024 Nissan Altima SR VC-T touts:
- Even larger rims than the standard SR trim
- “Smoked” emblems
- “Smoked” headlights
- 2.0L VC-T I4 engine
- 236 hp with 87-octane fuel / 248 hp with 93-octane fuel
- 267 ft-lb torque
- CVT transmission
- SR sport-tuned suspension
Considering the Altima’s base engine makes 188 hp, the upped range from 236 to 248 is quite the boost.
According to a Nissan dealer in Washington state, the trim is “rare” since only about one in 500 units gets the VCR engine.
Let the comments roll in
On Bill Korum’s Puyallup Nissan’s Instagram post, hecklers are showing up in full force. One says, “A rare altima is one with all of the body panels, the same color with no dents and all 4 wheels standard.” Another taunts, “VC means very crappy.”
Others recount Nissan’s unfortunate CVT transmissions of previous generations, which failed en masse before a redesign. The OEM ended up covering many under an extended warranty program.
As my toddler says, “Don’t yuck someone else’s yum.” Despite the mockings, the Altima is Nissan’s third-best-selling model in 2024. It’s trailing the compact Sentra sedan and the Rogue SUV. Brand-new, the 2024 model year starts at $27,000. Due to all the extras, the 2024 Altima SR VC-T starts higher at $37,365.
