The Nissan Almera II Hatchback, specifically the 1.8-liter (114 horsepower) variant with an automatic transmission, was produced between 2000 and 2002. This model, designated as part of the N16 series, represented Nissan’s entry into the competitive European compact hatchback segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Almera II lineup, it aimed to provide a balance of practicality, comfort, and affordability. The N16 Almera was Nissan’s attempt to gain a stronger foothold in a market dominated by European manufacturers like Volkswagen, Ford, and Opel/Vauxhall.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Almera |
| Generation | Almera II Hatchback (N16) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 (114 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3/5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 173 km/h (107.5 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm, 141.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 114 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 64.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 158 Nm @ 2800 rpm (116.53 lb.-ft. @ 2800 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 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 2.9 l (3.06 US qt | 2.55 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 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 (Back) track | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Almera variant is the QG18DE engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Nissan’s QG series, known for its relatively simple design and decent reliability. The QG18DE utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain for improved breathing and efficiency. The engine produces 114 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 158 Nm (116.53 lb-ft) of torque at 2800 rpm. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while providing convenience, was not known for its particularly quick shifts or fuel efficiency compared to manual counterparts.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8-liter automatic Almera offered a comfortable, if not particularly exciting, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 12.2 seconds, and top speed was approximately 107.5 mph. The automatic transmission, while smooth in normal driving conditions, could feel sluggish when attempting quicker acceleration or overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and everyday usability rather than performance. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 1.8, the automatic suffered a slight performance penalty. It also lacked the responsiveness of higher-performance Almera variants, such as those equipped with the larger 2.0-liter engine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8-liter automatic Almera typically came equipped with features considered standard for its class at the time. These included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a straightforward layout with easy-to-use controls. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, and a CD player. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, this variant occupied a middle ground, offering a good balance of features without the premium price tag of higher-spec models.
Chassis & Braking
The Almera II Hatchback utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a wishbone suspension setup at the front and a rigid axle suspension at the rear. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The suspension was tuned for comfort, resulting in a relatively soft ride quality. The steering was hydraulic power-assisted, offering reasonable feedback. The 185/65 R15 tires provided a good compromise between grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Almera II Hatchback 1.8 Automatic received mixed reviews from automotive critics. While praised for its practicality, spacious interior, and comfortable ride, it was often criticized for its uninspiring performance and somewhat dated interior design. Compared to rivals like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the Almera lacked the dynamic handling and refinement of those vehicles. However, it often undercut them in price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Fuel economy was respectable, but not class-leading. Reliability was generally considered good, although some owners reported minor electrical issues.
Legacy
The Nissan Almera II Hatchback 1.8 Automatic, while not a standout performer, proved to be a reliable and affordable family car. The QG18DE engine, when properly maintained, is known for its longevity. Today, these vehicles are relatively common on the used car market and can be found at very affordable prices. While not highly sought after by enthusiasts, they represent a practical and economical choice for those seeking a basic, dependable hatchback. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are relatively low, making it a viable option for first-time car owners or those on a tight budget.
