The Nissan Almera II Hatchback, specifically the 2.2 TDi variant produced between 2000 and 2003, represented Nissan’s entry into the increasingly popular European compact hatchback segment. Part of the N16 series, this model aimed to provide a practical and fuel-efficient option for buyers seeking a versatile family vehicle. While the Almera was never a top-seller in the US market, it was a significant player in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, and Opel/Vauxhall Astra. The 2.2 TDi trim occupied a middle ground in the Almera lineup, offering a balance between performance, economy, and equipment levels. It sat above the base 1.5L petrol models and below the more expensive, and less common, higher-spec versions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Almera |
| Generation | Almera II Hatchback (N16) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 TDi (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2003 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3/5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.2 kg/Hp, 89.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 192.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 50.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 238 Nm @ 2000 rpm (175.54 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | YD22DDT |
| Engine displacement | 2184 cm3 (133.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.7 l (9.19 US qt | 7.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1235 kg (2722.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 565 kg (1245.61 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) | 140 mm (5.51 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 |
| 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 the Almera 2.2 TDi was the YD22DDT engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilized direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The YD22DDT was a relatively simple design, prioritizing durability and fuel economy over outright performance. It featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s 18:1 compression ratio was typical for a diesel engine of the era, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The 2.2 TDi was paired with a five-speed manual transmission, which was the most common configuration. While an automatic transmission was offered on some Almera models, it was rarely seen with the 2.2 TDi engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2 TDi Almera offered a practical and comfortable driving experience. With 110 horsepower and 238 Nm (175.54 lb-ft) of torque, it wasn’t a particularly fast car, taking around 12.3 seconds to reach 62 mph. However, the engine’s torque delivery made it feel more responsive in everyday driving situations, particularly when overtaking or climbing hills. The five-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine, providing adequate gear spacing. Compared to the lower-powered 1.5L petrol versions, the 2.2 TDi offered significantly more pulling power. It wasn’t as sporty as some of its rivals, but it provided a smooth and refined ride, making it well-suited for long journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 TDi Almera typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Higher trim levels added features such as air conditioning, alloy wheels, a CD player, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included a sunroof, metallic paint, and a rear parking sensor.
Chassis & Braking
The Almera N16 utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a relatively simple suspension setup. The front suspension consisted of wishbones, while the rear suspension employed a rigid axle. This configuration prioritized ride comfort and cost-effectiveness over handling precision. The braking system featured ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. The ABS system provided added safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Almera 2.2 TDi was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical family car. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, it was also criticized for its somewhat bland styling and lack of driving excitement. Compared to other diesel-powered hatchbacks of the time, such as the Volkswagen Golf TDI, the Almera offered a more affordable price point but lacked the same level of refinement and performance. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 39.9 US mpg.
Legacy
The Nissan Almera N16 2.2 TDi has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the YD22DDT engine being known for its durability. However, like all diesel engines, it is susceptible to issues related to the fuel injection system and turbocharger. Today, these Almeras are relatively affordable on the used car market, making them a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers. While they may not offer the same level of technology or performance as modern cars, they provide a simple, reliable, and economical means of transportation.
