2019 Nissan Almera: Pros and cons

We first got acquainted with Nissan Almera back in 2010 when the sedan made its global debut. The outgoing model of Almera is based on the K13 Micra platform. The 2019 Almera is the Malaysian- spec version of the Japanese carmaker’s B- segment sedan which is sold as Nissan Versa and Sunny in the global markets.

The outgoing model happens to be the N 17 generation version which comes equipped with features like a rack and pinion steering wheel with electrical assistance. The B- segment sedan rivals the likes of Toyota Vios and the segment favourite Honda City.

Nissan Almera Price in Malaysia 

Interestingly enough, Nissan has not priced variants with aesthetic enhancements at a premium and features the same price tag as the standard models. There are two variants on offer which come with updated looks and have been dubbed the Black Edition. The 2019 Nissan Almera price in Malaysia is as follows.

Nissa Almera Engine

The 1.5-liter engine comes with dual overhead cams and 16 valves. The motor is naturally aspirated and the four-cylinder inline unit gets variable valve timing and multi-point fuel injection which offers impressive response considering the size of the car.

According to Nissan, the 2019 Almera can offer a fuel economy of 14.9 kmpl. Nissan’s B- segment sedan is only offered in a front-wheel-drive setup and thanks to its 41-litre fuel tank the car can offer a company claimed driving a range of up to 610 kilometres between fuel stops.

Nissan Almera Pros

• Impressive rear seat comfort: Nissan Almera gets one of the best in the class rear seats. The rear passengers are treated with an ample amount of legroom, comfort and impressive under-thigh support and knee room
• Capable suspension: The 2019 Nissan Almera specs sheet gets MacPherson strut suspension all around and managers to offer a very comfortable and soft ride even on more challenging road surfaces
• Large wheelbase: Thanks to its large wheelbase Nissan Almera commands and offers road presence of that of a car from a segment above and proves to be an ideal pick for those who are planning on upgrading from a hatchback

• Spacious cabin: Courtesy of the Almera’s tall design and dimensions, even for an entry-level compact sedan Nissan’s offering has ample space inside the cabin
• Global model: 2019 Nissan Almera happens to be a global model which is to say that it has been built to match international standards of quality, design, and safety
• Standard safety features: Wide range of standard safety features which include driver-side airbag, anti-lock braking system, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, ISOFIX child seat anchor points, and alarm assist with immobilizer

• Comfortable ride: Exclusive to the Malaysian market, Nissan offers the 2019 Almera with 15- inch wide spoke alloy wheels across all variants which come wrapped in continental rubber tires out of the factory which is responsible for the comfortable ride quality

Nissan Almera Cons

• No rear disc brakes: Even though it is uncommon for the segment, we would have preferred if Nissan offered a variant of Almera with all-round disc brakes instead of the current setup which comprises of dual disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear
• Outdated design: The current model with its four variant lineup first went on sale with the facelift model back in 2015 and therefore the looks of the B- segment sedan by Nissan might seem a tad outdated

• Unimpressive interior quality: As impressive as the exterior design and dimensions of the Nissan Almera are, the interiors fail to live up to the standard set by the bodywork. Almera's cabin features low rent materials and unattractive design which is common in cars of this price category. Surprisingly the fit and finish of the sedan do not match the standards that we have come to associate with the Japanese carmaker

· Lack of premium features: Unlike its other competitors in the segment Nissan does not offer some common premium creature comforts that are found in B- segments sedans these days. For instance, the 2019 Almera does not get LED headlamps and touchscreen infotainment system in any of its variants

Conclusion

For a car in this price bracket Nissan Almera does miss out on some premium features but the Japanese carmaker compensates for the same by not charging a premium for the more stylized versions of the 2019 Almera.

The 1.5-litre engine might not be the most powerful in the segment but gets the job done and Almera also offers one of the most comfortable rides in the segment. In Malaysia, however, the car is available with some attractive offers as the next generation 2020 model is on its way and will soon make its national debut.

Also Read: Nissan Almera: Top alternatives