2024 Nissan Almera 1.0L Turbo VL Review

Malaysia's current C-segment sedan market is highly competitive. Most models either emphasize power or focus on features, leaving few options that strike a balance between practicality and value for money. As one of the popular contenders in this segment, the 2024 Nissan Almera 1.0L Turbo VL retains its 1.0T engine + CVT combination after the facelift, while also enhancing its safety features. Can its actual performance meet the daily needs of family users? Over a week-long test drive, we thoroughly explored the car's capabilities from both static and dynamic perspectives.

From the exterior, the 2024 Almera VL continues Nissan's family design language, with an overall youthful and sporty look. The front features a V-motion grille, paired with chrome accents and halogen headlights, offering high recognition; the side profile has smooth lines, with a 4495mm length and 2620mm wheelbase, placing it slightly above average in its segment. The 195/65 R15 tires, though not particularly large, strike a balance between comfort and fuel efficiency. The rear LED taillights have a sharp design that complements the front, although the rear bumper design is relatively simple and lacks some sporty elements. As for the lighting system, automatic headlights, daytime running lights, and front and rear fog lights are all standard, making daily use convenient enough.

Stepping into the interior, the overall layout prioritizes practicality. The center console adopts a symmetrical design, with a 7-inch central touchscreen that has a clear operational logic, though its screen resolution is average. The multifunction steering wheel supports Bluetooth calls and audio control, with buttons providing clear feedback. The instrument panel is an analog-style electronic display, clearly showing information like RPM, speed, and fuel consumption. For materials, the upper part of the center console uses mostly hard plastics, but textured processing enhances the quality. The seats are made of fabric materials, with soft padding that remains comfortable even during long rides. In terms of equipment, keyless entry, one-touch start, power-folding side mirrors, and a single sunroof are all standard. The front-row manual air conditioning is easy to adjust, and the rear row is equipped with air conditioning vents to enhance passenger comfort. The rear seats can be folded in a 60:40 split, which expands the trunk space, catering to the need to load large items.

Space performance is one of the highlights of the Almera VL. With the front driver’s seat adjusted to a suitable position, a 175cm-tall passenger still has a fist-width of headroom remaining; the rear-row legroom reaches two fists, and there’s four fingers of headroom, allowing even three adults to sit without feeling cramped. In terms of storage, the front door panel compartments can hold two bottles of mineral water, while the center armrest box and glove box have average capacity. The rear center armrest also features cup holders, which are sufficient for daily use. The trunk has a standard capacity of 470L, which can be further expanded by folding down the rear seats, making it suitable for carrying luggage on family trips.

As for the powertrain, the 1.0T three-cylinder turbocharged engine produces a maximum power of 74kW (100PS) and a peak torque of 152N·m, paired with a CVT gearbox. During takeoff, the power response is relatively smooth, and the throttle tuning is linear, making it suitable for congested urban roads. When the RPM reaches 2000, the turbo kicks in, providing a noticeable power boost, which instills confidence when overtaking. However, the CVT gearbox experiences slight delays in rev increases during rapid acceleration. There are two driving modes: Economy and Normal. In Economy mode, the power output is smoother and more suitable for daily commuting, while Normal mode is more aggressive, catering to occasional spirited driving. Regarding fuel consumption, the tested consumption under mixed road conditions was 5.8L/100km, slightly higher than the official 5.4L/100km figure, but it remains fuel-efficient within the segment.

The handling and chassis performance are mediocre. The steering wheel is precise with minimal play, light at low speeds and stable at high speeds, making it suitable for novice drivers; the combination of front MacPherson independent suspension and rear double wishbone non-independent suspension can filter out most small vibrations on bumpy urban roads. However, there is slight bouncing in the rear seats when passing speed bumps. The braking system performs consistently, with moderate pedal travel and linear braking force output. During emergency braking, the car maintains a good posture. In terms of noise control, the cabin remains fairly quiet under 60km/h, but wind and tire noise become gradually noticeable above 80km/h, though still within an acceptable range.

In terms of safety features, the Almera VL comes standard with ABS, Electronic Stability Control, Active Braking, Forward Collision Warning, and Hill Start Assist. It is equipped with 4 airbags (front driver and passenger + front side airbags), and ISOFIX child seat anchors are also standard, meeting daily safety requirements. However, compared to some models in the same class, it lacks rear head airbags and lane-keeping assist, which is a slight drawback.

Overall, the core strengths of the 2024 Nissan Almera 1.0L Turbo VL lie in its balanced space performance, fuel-efficient power system, and practical safety features. Priced at 83,800 MYR, it offers a certain level of value for money among its peers. Compared to its competitors, its interior space is more spacious than the Toyota Vios, and its fuel economy slightly surpasses that of the Honda City 1.0T. However, it falls short of the City in terms of features. This car is suitable for families that prioritize practicality and fuel efficiency, especially those frequently traveling with family members. For younger users who seek abundant features and a sense of technology, they may need to consider higher trims or competing models.

In summary, the 2024 Almera VL is a pragmatic family sedan. While it lacks particularly standout features, it also has no obvious shortcomings, capable of meeting most families' daily travel needs. If you're looking for a fuel-efficient, spacious, and affordably priced C-segment sedan, this car is worth including on your consideration list.