The Nissan Almera (G11), produced from 2012 to October 2018, represented Nissan’s entry into the compact sedan market, primarily aimed at buyers in regions like Russia, Ukraine, and parts of Eastern Europe. While not sold extensively in the United States, the G11 Almera was designed as a practical and affordable vehicle, offering a step up from the smaller Versa (Tiida in some markets). The 1.6-liter (102 hp) variant occupied a central position in the Almera G11 lineup, offering a balance between fuel economy and acceptable performance. It was positioned above the base 1.5-liter engine and below the more powerful 1.6-liter options with different transmission choices.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Almera |
| Generation | Almera (G11) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (102 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | October, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 171 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 3750 rpm (106.95 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K4M |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1179-1198 kg (2599.25 – 2641.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1600-1620 kg (3527.4 – 3571.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 421-422 kg (928.15 – 930.35 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 614 kg (1353.64 lbs.) |
| Length | 4656 mm (183.31 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1522 mm (59.92 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in.) |
| Front overhang | 913 mm (35.94 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1043 mm (41.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 92H |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
INTRODUCTION
The Nissan Almera G11, launched in 2012, was a significant departure from its predecessors, particularly in terms of its platform and target market. Built on the B0 platform (shared with the Renault Logan and Sandero), the G11 Almera was designed with cost-effectiveness and practicality in mind. The 1.6-liter, 102 horsepower version was a popular choice, offering a reasonable compromise between performance and fuel efficiency. It was primarily sold in markets where affordability and durability were key considerations, and it served as a workhorse vehicle for families and individuals alike. This variant was often equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, though a four-speed automatic was also available, impacting its overall driving experience.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Almera G11 1.6 is the K4M engine, a naturally aspirated, four-cylinder inline engine. This engine, a staple in Renault-Nissan vehicles for many years, is known for its relative simplicity and robustness. The K4M utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to reasonable power output for its displacement. The 1.6-liter engine produces 102 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 145 Nm (106.95 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. The available four-speed automatic transmission, while providing convenience, is a relatively dated design. It features traditional hydraulic control and lacks the efficiency of more modern continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) or six-speed automatics. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy rather than spirited acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The Almera G11 1.6 with the automatic transmission delivers a comfortable, but not particularly engaging, driving experience. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 10.4 seconds. However, the four-speed automatic can feel sluggish, especially when attempting to overtake or climb hills. The engine lacks the low-end grunt of a turbocharged unit, requiring the transmission to downshift frequently to maintain momentum. Compared to the manual transmission version, the automatic suffers from a noticeable performance deficit. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well, but it doesn’t offer particularly sharp handling. Steering feel is light and lacks feedback.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6-liter Almera G11 typically came with a base level of equipment, focusing on essential features. Standard amenities often included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, fog lights, a more sophisticated audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and sometimes even a basic trip computer. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a durable and practical design. Optional extras included a rear parking sensor, upgraded audio systems, and metallic paint finishes.
Chassis & Braking
The Almera G11 utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure. The chassis is designed for durability and affordability rather than outright performance. The steering is a hydraulic rack and pinion system, offering reasonable precision but lacking the feel of more modern electric power steering systems. Tire size is typically 185/65 R15.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Almera G11 1.6 Automatic was generally well-received in its target markets as a practical and affordable family sedan. Critics praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable fuel economy. However, the four-speed automatic transmission was often criticized for its dated design and lack of responsiveness. Compared to other trims in the Almera lineup, the 1.6-liter automatic offered a balance between price and features. The manual transmission version of the 1.6 offered better fuel economy and performance, while higher-powered variants provided more spirited driving experiences but at a higher cost.
Legacy
The Nissan Almera G11, particularly the 1.6-liter variant, has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The K4M engine is known for its durability, and the simple mechanical design makes it relatively easy and inexpensive to maintain. However, the four-speed automatic transmission can be a potential weak point, and it’s important to check its condition before purchasing a used example. Today, the Almera G11 remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and dependable sedan.
