The Nissan Almera I Hatchback (N15) 2.0 GTi, produced between 1996 and 2000, represented the performance-oriented variant of Nissan’s compact offering in the European market. Positioned as the flagship trim level for the N15 Almera hatchback, the 2.0 GTi aimed to provide a sporty driving experience within the practical confines of a five-door family car. It was a key model in Nissan’s strategy to appeal to buyers seeking a more engaging alternative to mainstream competitors like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus. The N15 Almera, and specifically the GTi, was never officially sold in the North American market, but represents a significant example of Nissan’s engineering during that period.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Almera |
| Generation | Almera I Hatchback (N15) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 GTi (143 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 143 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Torque | 178 Nm @ 4800 rpm (131.29 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 | 3.4 l (3.59 US qt | 2.99 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1210 kg (2667.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1620 kg (3571.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 410 kg (903.9 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 340 l (12.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4120 mm (162.2 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1395 mm (54.92 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2535 mm (99.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/50 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Almera 2.0 GTi was the SR20DE engine, a 1.998-liter, naturally aspirated inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine was a staple in Nissan’s lineup during the 1990s, known for its robust construction and relatively simple design. The SR20DE featured a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, optimizing combustion efficiency. The engine produced 143 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 178 Nm (131 lb-ft) of torque at 4,800 rpm. The engine was transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The standard transmission was a five-speed manual gearbox, providing precise control and enhancing the sporty driving experience. While an automatic transmission was available on other Almera models, it was not offered with the 2.0 GTi, reflecting Nissan’s focus on performance for this trim.
Driving Characteristics
The Almera 2.0 GTi offered a noticeably more engaging driving experience compared to lower-spec Almera models. The SR20DE engine provided brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 7.8 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to fully exploit the engine’s powerband. The gear ratios were well-matched, providing good acceleration in each gear. While not a dedicated sports car, the GTi offered a responsive and enjoyable driving experience for everyday use. The suspension was tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, providing a reasonably compliant ride while maintaining good body control in corners. The steering was precise and well-weighted, contributing to a confident feel behind the wheel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 GTi was the best-equipped trim level in the Almera range. Standard features included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an upgraded audio system. The interior featured sport seats with enhanced bolstering, providing better support during cornering. The dashboard and door panels were typically trimmed with a combination of cloth and leather. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, and a sunroof. The GTi also featured a unique body kit, including a front spoiler, side skirts, and a rear spoiler, differentiating it visually from other Almera models.
Chassis & Braking
The Almera 2.0 GTi utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with independent wishbone suspension at the front and a rigid axle suspension at the rear. The front suspension provided good handling and ride comfort, while the rear suspension offered a compromise between stability and cost-effectiveness. The braking system consisted of ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking. The tires were typically 195/50 R15, providing a good balance between grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Almera 2.0 GTi was generally well-received by automotive critics in Europe. It was praised for its lively engine, responsive handling, and well-equipped interior. However, some critics noted that the interior quality was not quite as refined as some of its competitors, such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI. Compared to other Almera models, the 2.0 GTi offered a significant performance upgrade. It was considerably faster and more engaging to drive than the 1.4 and 1.6-liter versions. Fuel economy was reasonable for a performance-oriented hatchback, averaging around 29.4 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the engine’s timing chain over time.
Legacy
The Nissan Almera 2.0 GTi remains a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking an affordable and reliable performance hatchback. The SR20DE engine is known for its durability and relatively simple maintenance requirements. Parts availability is generally good, although some specific trim pieces may be difficult to find. Today, well-maintained examples of the Almera 2.0 GTi are becoming increasingly collectible, representing a nostalgic reminder of Nissan’s sporty offerings from the 1990s. The car’s blend of practicality, performance, and affordability has ensured its continued appeal in the used car market.
