Nissan Almera Review

Model review

Small cars were integral to Nissan’s line-up for some time, and though it might be crossovers that dominate its sales these days, in the past models like the Micra and Almera proved popular for this Japanese firm.

First introduced in 1995, the Almera was a replacement for the Sunny, a model that had been on sale for almost 30 years. Bringing plenty of style and affordability, this Nissan was sold as both a hatchback and saloon - and it sold well, too. 

However, it was the second-generation car, which went on sale in 2000, that helped this brand’s fortunes grow, with a model specifically designed for Europe. It was even manufactured in the UK at Nissan’s plant in Sunderland. The bolder-looking model had a curvier design than its predecessor, with the firm pushing forward in the technology and safety departments. Various special editions would follow over the Almera’s lifetime too.

Latest model

The only major update over the course of the second-generation Almera came in late 2002 in the form of a mid-life refresh. Featuring a design influence from the larger Primera hatchback, it received a sharper front end, redesigned lights and a range of new alloy wheel designs.

Inside, the Almera benefited from an updated centre console layout, along with improved engines offering enhanced performance, with no impact on efficiency. 

Production of the European Nissan Almera would come to a close in 2006, with the Japanese firm launching the Qashqai crossover in its place – something that would prove to be a hugely lucrative move over the years, with Nissan essentially establishing this SUV segment. 

Value for money

Nissan always prioritised value for money, and the Almera was a very attractive buy when it was new thanks to a sub-£10,000 starting price, which put it right on the money next to many rivals. 

However, with Nissan not selling the Almera in the UK for more than 15 years, used cars are now the only route you can go down, and if you’re after a cheap and reliable runabout, there’s plenty going for this hatchback. Facelift 2003 models are the ones to go for thanks to their more attractive styling and additional standard equipment, with remote locking and air conditioning included on all versions, along with useful rear parking sensors from mid-spec SE cars upwards. 

Around £1,000 buys you a well-maintained car with 80,000 miles on the clock, with £1,500 getting you a tidy example. Prices rise to £2,500 for the best models, depending on how much you want to spend. 

Looks and image

Even though the Almera hasn’t been sold for a number of years, it remains quite a smart-looking choice, particularly the later facelift cars that get a more angular front end. Its round shape doesn’t look too bad by modern standards, either, while if you opt for a top-spec SVE model, smart alloy wheels are also fitted. 

Moving inside, the Almera gets a fuss-free interior with a simple, uncluttered layout that makes changing the volume or the climate settings, for example, easy on the move. Though top-spec models get carpeted door cards and part leather upholstery, the overall quality is quite low, with the Almera having a cheaper-feeling interior representative of the times. While some models get a satellite navigation display, we’d be tempted to not bother, as screens like these date the interior further, and will feature such outdated maps that you won’t be able to get much use from it. 

Behind the wheel, the Almera is a safe and sensible choice, though there’s little in the way of excitement. It’s competent, and nimble enough for a run-of-the-mill hatchback, while light steering makes it good around town and easy to park. The ride is generally comfortable too, though it can sometimes feel a bit unsettled around town. 

Space and practicality

Space in the Almera is average rather than impressive, though there should still be a decent amount of room to use it as a small family car. The boot measures 355 litres, while two adults should be able to sit in the rear in relative comfort. 

It’s worth trying to find a car fitted with two new safety features that were introduced to the Almera – including side airbags as well as headrests that were especially designed to reduce the impact of whiplash if the car was involved in a collision. 

Engines

Two petrol engines and one diesel are available on the Almera. 

Beginning with the petrol choices, which are by far the most popular (you might struggle to find a diesel), the first option is a 89bhp 1.5-litre petrol unit that can take the Almera from 0-60mph in 13 seconds. If you want a bit more power, take a look at the 111bhp 1.8-litre unit, which is noticeably brisker with a 0-60mph time of 10.8 seconds. 

Moving over to diesel, a Renault-sourced 2.2-litre dCi unit was used, with power outputs of 110bhp and 136bhp offered, though – as we’ve mentioned – both of these are pretty scarce. 

Running costs

If you’re looking to keep your running costs low, it’s worth tracking down a diesel version as this will be noticeably better on fuel. Nissan claims 48mpg, though CO2 emissions are quite high at 161g/km, and still results in an annual £220 tax bill. 

In fact, the quoted CO2 and car tax figures are similar for the petrols, though fuel economy won’t be quite so good. 

Things to look out for

Nissan has a pretty good reliability reputation, and the Almera is no exception. Even as it exceeds 20 years on sale, it remains a solid choice if well-maintained, as evidenced by the fact plenty of Almeras are still driving around on the roads. 

Rivals 

The Almera competed in a particularly competitive market, with key rivals including the popular Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra and Volkswagen Golf. Other cars of a similar age worth checking out include the Seat Leon and Renault Megane. 

Depreciation

As the Almera hasn’t been sold for a number of years, depreciation isn’t something you really need to worry about, as prices are pretty much at rock bottom. If you want an affordable stop gap car, though, you’re unlikely to lose too much money on an Almera.