Nissan Almera 2024 Review

The C-segment sedan market in Malaysia has always been a highly competitive space for family cars, where consumers value practicality as well as having clear demands for features and fuel efficiency. The 2024 Nissan Almera 1.0L Turbo VL, as the high-spec entry-level version of its lineup, features the combination of a 1.0T engine paired with a CVT, standard active safety systems, and a sunroof as its main highlights. In this test drive, we focused on verifying whether its power is adequate, its space meets family needs, and whether the features are worth the RM 83,888 price tag.

The exterior of the 2024 Almera VL continues with the family-style V-Motion design language. The V-shaped chrome bar on the front, paired with the honeycomb lower grille, offers a decent level of recognition. The car's side profile features sleek lines, with a waistline extending from the front fender to the taillights, making its 4495mm length appear even more elongated. The 195/65 R15 tire specifications are fairly standard and match the pricing bracket. At the rear, the LED taillights adopt a cross-width design concept, offering a clear visual effect when lit, although they are not fully connected, which is worth noting. In terms of lighting features, automatic headlights, daytime running lights, and front and rear fog lights come as standard, sufficient for daily use.

Sitting inside, the interior of the Almera VL features a predominantly black color scheme. The dashboard adopts a layered design, with hard plastic on the upper part and a small amount of soft-touch materials covering the lower part, providing a decent tactile feel in reachable areas. A 7-inch central screen is standard, supporting basic multimedia functions with simple and straightforward operating logic. The multifunction steering wheel integrates buttons for volume adjustment and phone calls, making it convenient to use. The instrument panel employs a traditional backlit analog display, offering clear visibility and straightforward information on RPM, speed, and fuel levels. Regarding space, the 2620mm wheelbase is at a mainstream level among C-segment cars. The front row offers spacious seating, with a 175cm passenger having about a fist’s worth of headroom after adjusting the seat. The rear legroom measures roughly two fists, and headroom is around one fist, perfectly adequate for everyday family use. The rear row comes equipped with ISO FIX child seat anchors, and the 60:40 split-folding rear seats can expand the trunk space. The standard trunk volume is sufficient, being able to fit three 20-inch suitcases with no issues.

Starting the car, the idling noise of the 1.0T three-cylinder engine is relatively minimal. Shifting into drive (D) and starting off, the power response feels light and agile, suitable for congested urban roads. The engine delivers a maximum power of 74kW (100PS) and a peak torque of 152N·m, which kicks in at 4,000 RPM. Its low-to-mid-speed acceleration is decent, and when overtaking, pressing the accelerator deeply makes the CVT gearbox simulate gear changes, maintaining smooth power delivery. The official combined fuel consumption is 5.4L/100km. During the test drive, urban consumption averaged around 6.2L/100km, while highway consumption dropped to approximately 5L, meeting expectations for fuel efficiency. In terms of suspension, the setup consists of a front MacPherson independent suspension and a rear torsion beam suspension, tuned for comfort. When going over speed bumps or rough roads, the suspension effectively absorbs most of the vibrations. However, during sharp corners at speed, body roll becomes slightly apparent, making it more suited for daily commuting rather than aggressive driving. The steering feel is moderate, with minimal slack, allowing for easy handling in daily driving. Regarding noise control, tire and wind noise become somewhat noticeable at high speeds but remain within acceptable limits, without interfering with in-car conversations.

Overall, the 2024 Nissan Almera 1.0L Turbo VL's core strengths lie in its balanced performance: the 1.0T engine meets daily usage needs with economic fuel consumption; the space is adequate, suitable for family users; standard safety features like active braking and forward collision warning are included, offering excellent value for money. Compared to competitors in the same class, such as the Honda City 1.5L V, the Almera VL's power parameters are slightly lower, but it is more budget-friendly and does not fall short in terms of features. This car is suitable for family users who prioritize fuel efficiency and safety, and it can handle daily commutes and short weekend trips. If you're looking for a reliable, economical family sedan, the Almera VL is a worthwhile choice to consider.