Nissan Almera - Know the sedan inside-out

One of the staples for the Japanese automaker in Malaysia, the Almera has helped the brand make good money in the past. A well-built sedan that packs a decent set of features, remarkable mileage, storage and convenience facets. Also with an option to upgrade with NISMO performance package, is something desirable from the word go.

There are rumours doing rounds on the internet that the current generation Almera is set to retire soon and an all-new 2019 Almera will make way to different parts of the world including Malaysia. It will be built on the same platform as the new Nissan Micra. However, nothing is official yet and we can’t wait to admire the ever-charming Almera sedan, so let’s get this started.

Elegant looks

The Nissan Almera gets sleek curves and subtle lines packed inside an aerodynamic structure highlighted by chrome accents at the front and back. The aggressive front gets a big chrome-garnished 3D-grille with horizontal bars that is flanked by the large swept-back multi-reflector headlamps. Lower down the bumper are the circular fog lamps which accompany the new LED daytime running lights. The rear is elementary with wrap-around tail lights and an extended boot. Overall, the sedan is elegant and pleasing to eyes.

When elegance gets sportier

The Nissan Almera offers the best of both worlds. The motorsport-inspired Nismo Performance Package makes things exciting as far as looks and ride are concerned. The elegant Almera gets transformed into a sportier sedan with the front bumper spoiler with aero fins, stylish 16” alloy wheels, side skirts, trunk lid spoiler, rear bumper spoiler, sports muffler and the performance suspension system.

Convenient and comfy cabin

Inside, the Almera gets the piano black finish that lets you loosen up a little. The class-leading comfort is accentuated by high-quality fabric seating and extra spacious cabin. It comes with 636 mm of rear legroom which is definitely a big hit. In addition to the 490 litres trunk, it offers tremendous storage spaces in form of compartments around the dash, doors, near the handbrake and in form of rear armrest cup holders.

Feature-packed Almera is all you need

Not just style and comfort, the Almera offers intelligence as well. It comes loaded with technology features like chrome door handles, reverse sensors, multi-information display, a large rear armrest and a 6.5-inch display infotainment system that are standard across the range. While the top of the line model gets additional features like push-button start/stop, keyless entry system, automatic climate control, multi-function steering wheel and temperature display. The infotainment system comes with Virtual Acoustic Positioning System, rearview camera, USB, Bluetooth, iPod connectivity and navigation support.

Remarkable performance

Powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder DOHC engine and Drive-by-Wire technology, the Almera produces a max power of 102 PS and a peak torque of 139 Nm, mated to either 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission system (depends on the variants). The powertrain is supported by the Electronic Fuel Injection System (ECCS) which enables the sedan to return an impressive fuel efficiency of 14.9 kmpl.

It’s good if it’s safe

Nissan has you covered on this parameter as well. The Almera is built on the concept of Safety Shield and uses Zone Body construction technique. The sedan’s body is divided into two zones, a safety zone and a crushable zone that absorbs all the impact energy. The doors come with guard bars for enhanced safety of the occupants. Additionally, it gets avant-garde safety features like ABS with EBD, Brake Assist System, dual SRS airbags, ISOFIX child seat retainer and rear centre 3-point seatbelt. Moreover, it is a 4-star ASEAN NCAP rating Japanese sedan.

Competition and pricing

In the B-segment, the Nissan Almera challenges the likes of the VW Vento, Honda City, Kia Rio Sedan, Proton Persona, Toyota Vios and the Mazda 2 Sedan.

Offered in three different variants, the Almera 1.5E Manual is priced at RM 68,500, the Almera 1.5E (AT) at RM 72,200 while the high-spec model 1.5VL (AT) is at RM 82,000.