The Nissan Almera II, designated as the N16 chassis code, was a compact sedan produced by Nissan from 2000 to 2004. The 1.8 16V variant with an automatic transmission, produced from 2002-2003, represented a mid-range offering within the Almera II lineup. Positioned above the base 1.5L models, it aimed to provide a balance of performance and convenience for buyers seeking a more refined driving experience without the cost of the higher-specification trims. The N16 Almera was primarily marketed in Europe, Asia, and Australia, serving as a competitor to vehicles like the Ford Focus, Opel/Vauxhall Astra, and Toyota Corolla.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Almera |
| Generation | Almera II (N16) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 16V (116 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 176 km/h (109.36 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 116 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 163 Nm @ 4000 rpm (120.22 lb.-ft. @ 4000 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 | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1186 kg (2614.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1735 kg (3825.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 549 kg (1210.34 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 | 1445 mm (56.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2535 mm (99.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| 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 II 1.8 Automatic 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 durability. The QG18DE features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its respectable power output for its displacement. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for efficient combustion. The engine produces 116 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 163 Nm (120.22 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with the engine is a four-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while providing convenience, wasn’t known for its particularly quick shifts or advanced features compared to more modern automatic gearboxes. It was a conventional hydraulic control unit, prioritizing smooth operation over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.8L automatic Almera II offered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.9 seconds, and top speed was approximately 109 mph. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did detract from the engine’s potential, resulting in a noticeable delay during acceleration. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and everyday usability rather than aggressive performance. Compared to the five-speed manual version of the 1.8, the automatic suffered a slight performance penalty. The manual offered quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience, appealing to drivers who prioritized control. Compared to the larger 2.0L engine options available in some markets, the 1.8 felt less powerful, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8 Automatic trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an AM/FM radio with cassette player. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded interior upholstery. The interior generally featured a straightforward design with durable materials. Optional extras included a CD player, upgraded sound system, and metallic paint finishes. Safety features were relatively basic for the time, typically including dual front airbags and ABS brakes.
Chassis & Braking
The Almera II utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, but wasn’t particularly sporty in handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums, a cost-saving measure common in this class of vehicle. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering was a hydraulic rack and pinion system, providing reasonable steering feel and responsiveness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Almera II 1.8 Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and reliable family sedan. Critics praised its comfortable ride and fuel efficiency, but noted its lack of dynamic driving characteristics. Compared to the 1.5L models, the 1.8 offered a noticeable improvement in performance, making it more suitable for highway driving and carrying passengers. However, the automatic transmission was often criticized for its sluggishness. Fuel economy was respectable for the time, averaging around 30.2 US mpg in combined driving conditions. Reliability was generally good, with the QG18DE engine proving to be a durable unit.
Legacy
The Nissan Almera II 1.8 Automatic has become a relatively affordable and readily available used car. The QG18DE engine is known for its longevity, and with proper maintenance, can provide many years of reliable service. However, like any older vehicle, it’s prone to age-related issues such as corrosion and wear and tear on suspension components. The four-speed automatic transmission, while reliable, may exhibit signs of wear over time. Today, the Almera II 1.8 Automatic represents a practical and economical choice for buyers seeking a simple, dependable, and affordable compact sedan.
