Are the Altima 2.5 and Infiniti 2.5 engines the same?
3 Answers
Yes, both are members of Nissan's renowned VQ series engines. Theoretically speaking: Theoretically, these are the same engine with different models. There will be differences in intake and exhaust, as well as speed, power, and torque, especially in the maximum power speed and maximum torque speed. The HR version is significantly higher than the DE version, after all, these are not two comparable models. Distinguishing between the two: It is easy to distinguish these two engines visually. The HR (Infiniti's engine) is equipped with two throttle bodies to ensure more balanced air intake between the left and right three-cylinder banks, while the DE does not have such a design and only has one.
As an enthusiast who frequently tinkers with cars and has reviewed extensive materials, I can tell you that the Nissan Teana 2.5 and Infiniti 2.5 engines are essentially shared, with both being part of the QR25 series at their core. They feature an inline 4-cylinder design, delivering around 180 horsepower, and share identical cylinder blocks and layouts. Technically, Infiniti may have enhanced the driving experience slightly through software tuning or intake/exhaust optimizations—for instance, offering slightly quicker acceleration response—but the fundamental components remain unchanged. This makes maintenance convenient, as the parts are interchangeable. However, as a luxury brand, Infiniti's overall vehicle weight or suspension setup can influence the driving experience, lending it a more premium feel. In terms of reliability, both engines are durable and resistant to overheating, though regular oil changes are crucial to prevent oil pump issues. Daily fuel consumption is similar too, averaging 8-9 liters per 100 km in city driving, with better efficiency on highways. Ultimately, the choice between these two cars' engines comes down to budget, as there's no significant difference in performance.
I've been driving the Teana 2.5 daily for years, then switched to my friend's Infiniti for a while. The engines felt identical, with similar startup noise and power delivery, plus smooth acceleration without any jerking. In terms of fuel consumption, I measured nearly 9 liters in city traffic and around 6 liters on highways, which is quite economical. The Infiniti might add a touch more refinement in tuning, like slightly better noise control, but the core engine remains unchanged. Even when parts break, repair shops can use the same set, which is convenient. The main brand difference lies in overall comfort—Infiniti has softer seats but higher maintenance costs. If saving money is the priority, the Teana is sufficient. In short, the shared engine platform means the differences are minimal.
