Ed Martin Nissan of Fishers

2.5L QR25DE Engine Overview – 2025 Nissan Altima®

The QR25DE is Nissan’s long-running 2.5-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine, continuing as the exclusive powertrain in the 2025 Nissan Altima®. With up to 188 horsepower, front- or all-wheel drive availability, and excellent fuel economy, this engine is designed to deliver balanced everyday performance with low maintenance costs. For 2025, Nissan has discontinued the VC-Turbo engine, making the QR25DE the only option across all Altima trims.

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2025 Nissan Altima®

Engine Specifications

Engine CodeQR25DE
Displacement2.5 liters (2,488 cc)
ConfigurationInline 4-cylinder (I4)
ValvetrainDOHC, 16-valve with CVTC
Fuel SystemMulti-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Compression Ratio10.3:1
Horsepower (FWD)188 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Horsepower (AWD)182 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque (FWD)180 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm
Torque (AWD)178 lb-ft @ 3,600 rpm
Redline~6,500 rpm
Fuel TypeRegular unleaded gasoline
Emissions CertificationLEV3-SULEV30
TransmissionXtronic CVT®
Drive ConfigurationsFront-Wheel Drive (FWD), All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Engine Block/HeadAluminum alloy

KEY TECHNOLOGIES

Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control (CVTC)

CVTC adjusts valve timing for better torque at low speeds and improved fuel efficiency during highway cruising. It ensures smoother transitions across RPM ranges and supports responsive, economical driving.

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

The QR25DE uses a proven MPI system that distributes fuel to each cylinder through a set of strategically positioned injectors—balancing performance with long-term reliability and easier maintenance.

Lightweight Construction

With aluminum used in both the block and cylinder head, the QR25DE reduces overall vehicle weight, helping improve both handling and MPG.

Xtronic CVT® Pairing

All 2025 Altima models feature a CVT transmission designed to keep the engine in its optimal RPM range. While not performance-focused, the CVT maximizes efficiency and offers smooth, gearless acceleration.

QR25DE Engine Models

The QR25DE has been a staple in Nissan’s lineup for over two decades. In the 2025 model year, it remains as the only engine available in the Altima, following the removal of the 2.0L VC-Turbo option previously offered on SR VC-Turbo trims.

QR25DE Models

2025 Nissan Altima Trims with QR25DE:

  • Altima S
  • Altima SV
  • Altima SR
  • Altima SL
  • Altima SR Premium (replaces VC-Turbo trim)
Explore the 2025 Nissan Altima

Frequently Asked Questions: 2.5L QR25DE Engine

What engine is in the 2025 Nissan Altima?

The 2025 Altima is powered exclusively by the 2.5L QR25DE 4-cylinder engine, which produces up to 188 horsepower and comes standard with a CVT transmission.

How much horsepower and torque does the QR25DE engine make?

FWD models: 188 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque

AWD models: 182 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque

Is the QR25DE engine turbocharged?

No. The QR25DE is a naturally aspirated engine. The VC-Turbo option was discontinued for 2025, making the 2.5L I4 the only engine across all trims.

What kind of fuel does the QR25DE engine use?

The engine runs on regular unleaded gasoline, making it more affordable to fuel than some turbocharged competitors that require premium.

What transmission is paired with the QR25DE engine?

All Altima trims with the QR25DE use Nissan’s Xtronic CVT®, which continuously adjusts ratios for smooth, efficient performance.

Is the QR25DE engine available with all-wheel drive?

Yes. The 2.5L engine can be paired with either front-wheel drive or Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, depending on the trim.

What is the fuel economy of the QR25DE engine?

Expected fuel economy for 2025 (based on 2024 ratings):
FWD: 27–39 mpg (varies by trim)
AWD: 26/36 mpg

Why was the VC-Turbo engine removed from the 2025 Altima?

Nissan has discontinued the 2.0L VC-Turbo engine to streamline the Altima lineup, leaving the more fuel-efficient QR25DE as the sole powertrain. AWD compatibility and broader trim availability also favor the 2.5L setup.

Is the QR25DE engine reliable?

Yes. The QR25DE has been in use since 2002 and is known for its durability, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance needs. It remains one of Nissan’s most widely used engines.

Which trims of the 2025 Altima use the QR25DE?

All of them. From the base S to the top SR Premium, every 2025 Altima trim is powered by the 2.5L QR25DE engine.