The Nissan Almera II Hatchback, specifically the 1.8-liter variant producing 114 horsepower, was a key model in Nissan’s European lineup from 2000 to 2002. Built on the N16 platform, this generation Almera aimed to provide a practical and affordable option in the compact hatchback segment. The 1.8L engine represented a mid-range offering, positioned above the base 1.5L models and below any potential performance-oriented trims. It was designed to balance fuel efficiency with adequate power for everyday driving, appealing to a broad customer base seeking a reliable and economical vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Almera |
| Generation | Almera II Hatchback (N16) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 (114 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3/5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 114 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 158 Nm @ 4000 rpm (116.53 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | QG18DE |
| Engine displacement | 1769 cm3 (107.95 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.9 l (3.06 US qt | 2.55 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1115 kg (2458.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1735 kg (3825.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 620 kg (1366.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 355 l (12.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1100 l (38.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4184 mm (164.72 in.) |
| Width | 1706 mm (67.17 in.) |
| Height | 1448 mm (57.01 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2535 mm (99.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Rear track | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Almera II 1.8 was the QG18DE engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was part of Nissan’s QG series, known for its relatively simple design and focus on reliability. The QG18DE featured multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The engine produced 114 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 158 Nm (116.53 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s 9.5:1 compression ratio was a compromise between efficiency and power output. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a direct connection between the engine and the front wheels. The transmission was chosen for its durability and relatively low cost, aligning with the Almera’s overall value proposition.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8-liter Almera offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the smaller 1.5-liter variants. While not a sports car, the 114 hp engine provided adequate acceleration for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 10.5 seconds. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing reasonable responsiveness. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine could feel somewhat strained when pushed hard. Compared to a potential higher-performance variant (had one existed), the 1.8L would have lacked the punch for spirited driving, but it offered a more relaxed and economical driving experience. The steering was light and easy, making it well-suited for urban environments, but lacked the feedback desired by more enthusiastic drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Almera II 1.8 typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an AM/FM radio. Higher trim levels, often denoted by suffixes like ‘SE’ or ‘S’, added features such as alloy wheels, air conditioning, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and metallic paint finishes. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, prioritizing practicality over aesthetics.
Chassis & Braking
The Almera II featured a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a rigid axle rear suspension. This suspension setup was a cost-effective solution that provided a comfortable ride, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The Almera’s chassis was designed for stability and predictability, rather than outright handling prowess.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Almera II 1.8 was generally well-received as a practical and affordable hatchback. Critics praised its reliability and fuel efficiency, but noted that its driving dynamics were not particularly exciting. Compared to rivals like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf, the Almera offered a more budget-friendly option, but lacked the refinement and driving engagement of those competitors. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 31.4 US mpg, making it an attractive choice for cost-conscious buyers. The 1.8L engine offered a good balance between performance and economy, making it a popular choice within the Almera range.
Legacy
The Nissan Almera II 1.8, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, proved to be a reliable and durable option for many owners. The QG18DE engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, can provide many years of service. In the used car market, these Almeras are often sought after for their affordability and practicality. While they may not offer the latest technology or the most exciting driving experience, they represent a solid and dependable choice for those seeking a budget-friendly hatchback. Parts availability remains reasonably good, making maintenance relatively straightforward and inexpensive.
