MALAYSIANS may not get to see any new Nissan models launched here until 2018, according to some reports recently.
So until then, existing models such as the Almera, with some periodic enhancements, will continue to be the staples for its local distributor.
Recently, Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd introduced a new driving video recorder (DVR) as an optional add-on accessory in all Nissan models.
We had the opportunity to test– drive a Nissan Almera 1.5 VL variant, fitted with the DVR and other optional add-ons such as Android-based 6.5-inch multimedia navigation system, Nismo performance package and leather seats.
The Almera is powered by a 1.5-litre double overhead cam, continuous variable valve timing control (CVTC) engine hooked on a 4-speed automatic transmission. It is capable to produce about 102 horsepower (hp) at 6,000 rpm and 139 Newton Meter of torque from 4,000 rpm.
Measures at 4,425mm in long, 1,695mm wide and 1,500m, and weighs at 1,045kg, it has a 41-litre fuel-tank capacity and a 490-litre boot space.
The car comes with two airbags, day-running lights, an anti-lock braking system with electronic brake distribution, brake assist, side mirrors with turn signal, fog lamps, keyless entry with push-start button (i-key), automatic air-condition and steering wheel audio controls.
As for the Nismo performance package, it consists of a front and rear bumper spoiler, side skirts, trunk lid spoiler, 16-inch alloys, sports exhaust muffler, and a performance suspension system which includes springs and shock absorbers.
The Almera is priced at RM82,440 inclusive of the six per cent Goods and Services Tax but without insurance. Its leather combination interior is priced at RM1,817 while its Nismo performance package costs RM14,442. The DVR is priced at RM999.
It has a 10,000km service intervals and all Nissan Almera and the DVR come with three years or 100,000km warranty, which ever comes first.
THE DRIVE
We clocked nearly 500km on the Almera. The Nismo performance package’s aerokits are elegantly sporty and its sports muffler sounds beautiful at low revs.
However, the Almera was not as powerful as the muffler sounded. During its pick-up, the B-segment sedan’s muffler sounded loud and powerful, but the car struggled to achieve the speed.
On corners, it sat on the ground firmly, but without traction and vehicle stability control. We felt it was not safe to push the Almera to its limits. The absorbers gave a go kart-liked feeling, where all bumps, potholes and rough surface were sharply felt.
The newly-introduced DVR is, however, amazing. It features a 150-degree viewing angle, a six-layer coating filter lens, audio and photo recording capability and a low-light image sensor capable of capturing HD-quality video.
The DVR automatically turns on and starts recording when the engine starts up. It triggers the record mode and prevents crucial information from being overwritten in the event of an impact, a collision, sharp turning or emergency braking.
It can wirelessly connect to any IOS or Android-operated smartphones with the TCAT DVR app, which allows users to access videos and photos, configure settings, stream recorded videos, live view as well as download its videos.
As for the engine, wind and tyre noises, we found that it was under control, but tyre noise was apparent during low-and high-speed driving.
The Android-based 6.5-inch multimedia navigation system is user-friendly, sound system is clear but the bass is not solid enough. There is quite a generous head and leg room in the Almera. Its 490-litre boot space is sufficient to load a 20-inch luggage along with a large baby stroller.
We recorded 5.4 to 6.8 litres per 100km when cruising on a highway at 80 to 110 kilometres per hour (kph). It consumed about 7.0 to 9.2 litres per 100km after a combination of city and highway driving. It clocked 9.8 to 11.6 litres per 100km after a pedal-to-the-metal driving.
There is a few areas that the Almera can improve on. These include having vehicle stability control and traction control for safety, reducing the tyre noise and having an automatic locking system that locks the door when it starts to move.
The Almera should also come with electrical folding mirrors, and to increase its comfort level, the car should have a centre armrest with some cushion on its door panels as the plastic-like material is not very comfortable.