The Nissan Almera II Hatchback, specifically the 1.5 Di variant produced from 2003 to 2006, represented a key offering in Nissan’s European compact car lineup. This facelifted version of the N16 series aimed to provide an economical and practical option for buyers seeking a versatile hatchback. Positioned as an entry-level diesel model, it catered to those prioritizing fuel efficiency and low running costs over outright performance. The 1.5 Di sat below the more powerful petrol variants and offered a diesel alternative to the standard 1.5 and 1.8 liter gasoline engines. It was primarily sold in Europe, where diesel engines held a significant market share due to favorable taxation and fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Almera |
| Generation | Almera II Hatchback (N16, facelift 2003) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 Di (82 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3/5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 168 km/h (104.39 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.5 kg/Hp, 74.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 167.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 82 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 185 Nm @ 1750 rpm (136.45 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K 722 |
| Engine displacement | 1460 cm3 (89.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 19.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.55 l (4.81 US qt | 4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.56 l (6.93 US qt | 5.77 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1105 kg (2436.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1735 kg (3825.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 355 l (12.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1020 l (36.02 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 | Spring Strut |
| 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 1.5 Di is the K9K 722 engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine, developed jointly by Renault and Nissan, was a common sight in various European compact cars of the era. It features a single overhead camshaft (OHC) design and utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The K9K 722 employs a diesel common rail fuel injection system, which allows for precise fuel delivery and contributes to improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine’s 19.2:1 compression ratio is typical for a direct injection diesel. The 5-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available with this engine, prioritizing fuel economy over rapid acceleration. The engine’s transverse mounting within the front wheel drive configuration contributes to maximizing interior space.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 Di Almera offered a practical, if not particularly exciting, driving experience. With 82 horsepower and 185 Nm (136 lb-ft) of torque, acceleration was modest, taking around 14.5 seconds to reach 62 mph. The engine’s torque peak at 1750 rpm provided reasonable pulling power for everyday driving, making it suitable for urban commutes and highway cruising. The 5-speed manual transmission was geared for economy, with taller ratios prioritizing fuel efficiency over spirited acceleration. Compared to the 1.5 and 1.8 petrol versions, the 1.5 Di offered significantly better fuel economy but lacked the responsiveness and higher top speed of its gasoline counterparts. The manual transmission provided a more engaging driving experience than an automatic would have, but also required more driver involvement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 Di Almera typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat utilitarian, design. Optional extras could include air conditioning, alloy wheels, and a CD player. Higher trim levels, if selected, might add features like rear electric windows and upgraded interior trim. The focus was on providing a practical and affordable vehicle rather than luxury or extensive features.
Chassis & Braking
The Almera N16 utilized a front-wheel-drive chassis with a MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a rigid axle suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The hydraulic power steering provided light and easy steering, making it well-suited for urban driving. The relatively lightweight construction of the Almera (around 1105 kg or 2436 lbs) helped to offset the modest power output of the 1.5 Di engine.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Almera 1.5 Di was generally well-received as an economical and practical hatchback. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to other diesel hatchbacks in its class, such as the Volkswagen Golf TDI and Ford Focus TDCi, the Almera offered a competitive price point but lacked the refinement and driving dynamics of its rivals. However, its affordability and reliability made it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. Fuel economy figures of around 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg) were a significant selling point.
Legacy
The K9K engine family, including the K9K 722 found in the Almera 1.5 Di, proved to be a robust and reliable unit. While not without its quirks, the engine is generally considered durable and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. Today, used examples of the Almera 1.5 Di are relatively affordable and can be found in reasonable condition. However, potential buyers should be aware of the typical wear and tear associated with diesel engines, such as turbocharger issues and injector problems. The Almera 1.5 Di remains a practical and economical option for those seeking a no-frills hatchback, and its fuel efficiency continues to be a major draw for budget-conscious drivers.
