The Nissan Almera (G11) 1.6 (102 hp) Automatic, produced from 2012 to October 2018, represented a key offering in Nissan’s compact sedan lineup, primarily targeted towards the European and developing markets. Positioned as a practical and affordable family vehicle, the G11 Almera aimed to provide comfortable transportation with reasonable fuel efficiency. This particular variant, equipped with the 1.6-liter engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, served as a mid-range option, bridging the gap between more basic trims and potentially higher-performance, though less commonly available, engine choices. The G11 generation marked a return to the Almera nameplate in Europe after a period where the Tiida was marketed instead.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Almera |
| Generation | Almera (G11) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (102 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | October, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 201 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp, 83.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm, 118.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.8 Hp/l |
| 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 | 1224-1229 kg (2698.46 – 2709.48 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 421-426 kg (928.15 – 939.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 950 kg (2094.39 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 630 kg (1388.91 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 (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Almera variant is the K4M 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine, a product of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, is known for its relative simplicity and durability. It features a naturally aspirated configuration with multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The K4M engine produces 102 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 145 Nm (106.95 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. The four-speed automatic transmission, while providing convenience, is a somewhat dated design by modern standards. It prioritizes smooth shifts over outright performance and contributes to the car’s generally relaxed driving experience. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy and everyday usability rather than spirited acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6L Automatic Almera delivers a comfortable, if not particularly exciting, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 12.1 seconds, and the top speed is 175 km/h (108.74 mph). The automatic transmission tends to hunt for gears on inclines or during sudden acceleration requests. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic suffers a slight performance penalty. Higher-output engine options, though less common, offered significantly more responsive acceleration. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well. Steering feel is light and predictable, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Automatic Almera typically came equipped with standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, fog lights, and a more sophisticated audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. Safety features included ABS brakes and driver/passenger airbags. Optional extras often included a sunroof, parking sensors, and a navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The Almera G11 utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The steering system is a hydraulic rack and pinion setup, offering a reasonable level of precision. The tires are typically 185/65 R15, providing a balance between comfort and grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Almera 1.6 Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and affordable family car. Critics praised its comfortable ride and spacious interior, but noted its somewhat uninspiring performance and dated automatic transmission. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to competitors like the Skoda Octavia or Volkswagen Golf, the Almera offered a more affordable price point but lacked the refinement and driving dynamics of those vehicles. The 1.6L engine offered a good balance between fuel economy and usability, making it a popular choice for drivers prioritizing practicality over performance.
Legacy
The K4M engine, used in the Almera, has proven to be a relatively reliable unit when properly maintained. Common issues include oil leaks and occasional sensor failures. The four-speed automatic transmission, while durable, can be prone to wear and tear over time. In the used car market, the Almera 1.6 Automatic represents a budget-friendly option for those seeking a reliable and spacious sedan. Its simplicity and relatively low running costs make it an attractive choice for first-time car buyers or those on a tight budget. However, potential buyers should be aware of the transmission’s age and ensure it has been regularly serviced.
