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Tinashe Makichi Motoring Reporter
The new Nissan Almera which is now available on the local market has been updated with many new features, bringing stylish design and exceptional value together in one complete package. With the term Almera derived from the Spanish term for a large diamond “almendra”, the Nissan Almera is a global car for Nissan which exudes a youthful image and Mediterranean atmosphere.

A smartly packaged brand new sedan which boast affordability, top-class comfort and space with eco friendliness and clever engineering.

With its roots stretching back to 1995, the Nissan Almera found favour with Zimbabweans initially in its second generation both as a hatchback and sedan in 2001. The all-new Almera is built in Chennai, India and fully imported with an excess of 500 000 units to date.

The latest model has been designed to punch above its weight with large exterior dimensions, a spacious interior and a big boot – three key design points which dictated the development of the new Almera.

Keeping with the tradition of offering a global vehicle with C-segment sedan proportions at an affordable, sub-compact or B-segment price also forms part of the Almera philosophy and with this new model, Nissan again offers exceptional value to its consumers. A designed vehicle inside and out, with class-leading rear legroom and luggage capacity in particular, as well as a functional cabin all at an exceptionally affordable price.

With design keywords like “energetic” and “sleek” forming part of the design brief, the new Nissan Almera features sculptural design elements with muscular overtones, while maintaining a smooth form with curvaceous nuances.

A pronounced design crease which runs from front – to rear bumper also expresses character and spirit, forming a high waist line.

Nissan’s price-busting and space-abounding Almera is now available with updated looks, enhanced specification and even greater value.

With C-segment sedan proportions and an exceptional B-segment sedan price tag, the updated Almera continues to deliver way above expectations.

“Driving it down Mutare road towards Ruwa reminded me of the pure Nissan sedan tradition. For years my mother drove the Sunny and I always looked forward to those drives, handling and comfort in Nissan vehicles back then was bliss and now with new technologies , it has become world-class,” said Fact Jeke a motoring analyst based in Harare.

For 2014 Nissan has been offering more cars for the money, with updated looks and enhanced specifications elevating Almera to lead the pack in its segment.

The space and versatility offered by the Nissan Almera remain as key characteristics and reconfirms Almera as a forerunner. Exterior changes to the updated Almera include edgy new headlights which flank a new, more distinguished chrome grille, along with a more aggressive front bumper for a more assertive attitude.

The sides of the vehicle now play host to updated 15 inch alloy wheels and at the rear a redesigned bumper adds a sporty touch.

Rear parking sensors now make parking the Almera much easier.

On the inside, a more welcoming atmosphere has been created thanks to new seat fabric with contrasting stitching, and an updated fascia with a new audio system design and classier air conditioning controls.

Class-leading rear legroom and the Almera’s massive 490 litre boot remain in place.

An updated steering wheel in both models adds an upmarket feel, it now also including telephone controls for the standard Bluetooth and still featuring satellite controls for the new audio system, now complete with USB functionality. The updated Nissan Almera range continues to incorporate two models – the Almera 1,5 Acenta five speed manual and the Almera 1,5 Acenta 4-speed automatic – both powered by a 73 kW/ 134 Nm petrol engine.

Safety equipment across the range includes ABS with EBD and BAS, auto-locking doors, three-point seat belts for all five seats, dual front airbags and ISOFIX child seat anchors.

Both Nissan Almera models are available as standard with a class-leading three year per 60 000 km service plan and Nissan’s three year per 100 000 km warranty.

Service intervals are 10 000 km. With the ever increasing fuel prices and maintenance costs, middle managers and sales representatives should opt for this vehicle because of its low costs.

At a price of $23,800 Nissan Clover Leaf Motors has been willing to assist with finance options and other specification related enquiries.