The Nissan Almera Tino (facelift, introduced in 2003) 2.0-liter variant, producing 136 horsepower and equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), represented a significant offering in Nissan’s compact minivan lineup. Produced from 2003 to 2006, this version of the Tino aimed to provide a balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and a more refined driving experience compared to lower-spec models. It was primarily marketed in Europe and Asia, where compact MPVs were highly sought after for their versatility and ease of maneuverability in urban environments. This particular trim level sat in the mid-range of the Tino lineup, offering more features and performance than the base models, but remaining more accessible than the top-of-the-line options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Almera |
| Generation | Almera Tino (facelift 2003) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (136 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg, 21.9 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.2 l/100 km (32.7 US mpg, 39.2 UK mpg, 13.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.3 l/100 km (25.3 US mpg, 30.4 UK mpg, 10.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp, 94.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm, 122 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 4800 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SR20DE |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.7 l (3.91 US qt | 3.26 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1435 kg (3163.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 485 kg (1069.24 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 440 l (15.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1950 l (68.86 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4264 mm (167.87 in.) |
| Width | 1758 mm (69.21 in.) |
| Height | 1611 mm (63.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2535 mm (99.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Rear track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| 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 | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2003-2006 Nissan Almera Tino 2.0 CVT is the SR20DE engine, a 1.998-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine is a naturally aspirated design, utilizing multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The SR20DE is known for its relative reliability and smooth power delivery. The 10:1 compression ratio contributes to its respectable output of 136 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 175 Nm (129 lb-ft) of torque at 4800 rpm. Paired with this engine is a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Nissan’s CVT design aimed to provide seamless acceleration and improved fuel economy compared to traditional automatic transmissions. Unlike conventional gearboxes, a CVT doesn’t have fixed gear ratios, instead using a belt and pulley system to provide an infinite number of ratios within its operating range.
Driving Characteristics
The Almera Tino 2.0 CVT offered a comfortable and easy driving experience. The CVT, while not providing the sporty feel of a traditional automatic or manual transmission, delivered smooth and linear acceleration. The 136 hp engine provided adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising, although it wasn’t particularly quick. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 12.6 seconds. Compared to the lower-powered 1.6-liter versions, the 2.0-liter engine offered a noticeable improvement in performance, especially when fully loaded or tackling inclines. However, it lacked the responsiveness of a manual transmission and didn’t offer the same level of performance as some of its competitors with more powerful engines. The CVT’s programming prioritized fuel efficiency, sometimes resulting in a slight delay in response when requesting sudden acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CVT trim of the Almera Tino typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded interior upholstery. The interior generally featured a practical and functional design, with durable materials. Optional extras included a navigation system, leather seats, and upgraded sound systems. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard, with airbags available depending on the specific market and trim level.
Chassis & Braking
The Almera Tino utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a wishbone suspension at the front and a spring strut suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The hydraulic power steering provided light and easy steering feel. The vehicle’s weight of approximately 1435 kg (3163.63 lbs) contributed to its stable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Almera Tino 2.0 CVT was generally well-received by critics as a practical and versatile family vehicle. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the CVT transmission lacked the responsiveness of a traditional automatic and that the engine wasn’t particularly powerful. Compared to other compact MPVs in its class, such as the Renault Scenic and Citroën Xsara Picasso, the Almera Tino offered a competitive level of features and value. The 1.6-liter versions of the Tino were more affordable but offered significantly less performance, while higher-spec models with more powerful engines were more expensive.
Legacy
The Nissan Almera Tino, particularly the 2.0 CVT variant, has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The SR20DE engine is known for its durability, and the CVT transmission, while requiring proper maintenance, can provide years of trouble-free operation. Common issues include wear and tear on suspension components and potential oil leaks. Today, the Almera Tino remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical and spacious family vehicle. Its combination of affordability, reliability, and versatility has ensured its continued presence on roads throughout Europe and Asia.
