The Nissan Almera II, designated as the N16 chassis code, was a compact sedan produced by Nissan from 2000 to 2002 in Europe and other international markets. Positioned as a practical and affordable family car, the N16 Almera represented Nissan’s second attempt at a dedicated compact sedan, following the earlier Almera (N15). The 1.8 16V variant, producing 114 horsepower, occupied a mid-range position within the N16 lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy. This model aimed to appeal to buyers seeking a more refined driving experience than the base 1.5L engine offered, without the higher price tag of the more powerful options available in some markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Almera |
| Generation | Almera II (N16) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 16V (114 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2002 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| 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 | 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, 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 | 6.6 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 | 393 l (13.88 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4425 mm (174.21 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2535 mm (99.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| 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 the Almera II 1.8 16V is the QG18DE engine, a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Nissan’s QG engine family, known for its relatively simple design and good reliability. The QG18DE features a cast iron block and an aluminum cylinder head, incorporating a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration contributes to improved breathing and higher-end power delivery. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine’s 9.5:1 compression ratio strikes a balance between efficiency and performance. The 114 horsepower and 158 Nm (116.53 lb-ft) of torque are respectable figures for a naturally aspirated engine of this displacement. The engine was typically paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, although a 4-speed automatic transmission was also available, impacting acceleration and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8L engine provided a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base 1.5L Almera. While not a sports car, the 1.8 offered adequate acceleration for everyday driving, with a 0-60 mph time of around 10.5 seconds. The engine felt responsive at mid-range speeds, making overtaking maneuvers relatively easy. The 5-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band, while the optional automatic transmission provided convenience, albeit at the expense of some performance and fuel efficiency. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for comfort and economy rather than outright speed. The N16 Almera’s suspension was tuned for a comfortable ride, prioritizing smoothness over sporty handling. Steering was light and easy, making it well-suited for urban driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8 16V Almera typically came equipped with features such as power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an air conditioning system. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a CD player, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for more premium materials on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with easy-to-read gauges and controls. Optional extras included a sunroof, side airbags, and anti-lock brakes (ABS).
Chassis & Braking
The N16 Almera utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were typically solid discs. The steering system employed a hydraulic power steering rack and pinion, providing light and precise steering feel. The Almera rode on 15-inch wheels with 185/65 R15 tires.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Almera II 1.8 16V was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and reliable family car. It offered a good level of equipment for its price point and provided a comfortable driving experience. Compared to the 1.5L version, the 1.8 offered a significant improvement in performance, making it a more appealing option for drivers who frequently traveled on highways or carried passengers. However, it wasn’t as fuel-efficient as the 1.5L model. Compared to rivals like the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf, the Almera offered a competitive package, but it lacked the brand prestige and sporty handling of some of its competitors.
Legacy
The QG18DE engine, found in the Almera II 1.8, is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. While not without its quirks, such as potential for oil consumption in some examples, the engine has proven to be a reliable unit over the long term. Today, the N16 Almera 1.8 can be found as an affordable used car, offering a practical and economical transportation option. Its simplicity and relatively low running costs make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the car’s age and potential for wear and tear, and a thorough inspection is recommended before purchase.
