Nissan Almera Hatchback (95-00) - Review

Review by Parkers on
Billed as the car 'they don't want you to drive' and 'they' nearly got their way too, as the Almera was always an underrated and overlooked small family car. However beneath that bland exterior you'll find a well-tuned, sporty chassis and some lively engines. The Almera is inexpensive to buy, and the larger engined versions are excellent value for money. It is a thoroughly competent all-rounder, practical and spacious enough to suit a small family with very impressive reliability, but even the GTi is hardly inspirational.
3 out of 5

Other Nissan reviews

3 out of 5

Performance

The 2.0 litre diesel is a rather sluggish performer, but the petrol units are all quite perky and that includes the 1.4 base model. A 1.6 fills the middle ground with the 2.0 litre GTi at the top of the pile. All are quite refined and the even the GTi can manage an average of 35mpg.

4 out of 5

Handling

Thanks to advanced rear suspension, the Almera is a far more satisfying car to drive than its appearances would suggest. There's plenty of grip in corners and the steering is quick to respond and communicative. Ride has not been compromised and it remains smooth riding whilst handling remains composed.