Nissan Almera is one of the most recognizable models of the Japanese brand on the Russian market, the history of which goes back more than two decades. During this time, the car has gone from a compact sedan with a simple design to a modern budget liftback with advanced security systems. But not everyone knows what is called Almera over the years, completely different cars were hidden - from the converted Sunny to global Versa.
In this article we will look at all generations of Nissan Almera, including little-known versions for the European and Asian markets. You will find out which engines were installed on each generation, how the design changed and what unique technical solutions have been used over the years. And also why some versions Almera have never been sold in Russia and how they differ from the models we are used to.
First generation: Nissan Almera N15 (1995–2000) - European Sunny
Debut generation Almera N15 appeared in 1995, but in Russia they began to officially sell it only in 2000. In fact it was converted Nissan Sunny (model B14), adapted to European standards. The car was offered in bodies sedan And hatchback, with the latest version being especially popular in Europe.
Gasoline engines with a volume of 1.4 (75 hp) and 1.6 (90–100 hp), as well as diesel 2.0 Di (75 hp) for the European market. Transmissions are only manual and 4-speed automatic. Interestingly, in Japan this model was sold as Nissan Pulsar, and in the USA - like Nissan Sentra.
- 🔧 Engines: 1.4 (GA14DE), 1.6 (GA16DE), 2.0 Di (CD20)
- 📏 Dimensions: 4445×1690×1390 mm (sedan)
- 💰 Price in 2000: from $12,000 (in Russia)
- ⚡ Feature: first Almera with the system Nissan Anti-Theft System (NATS)
⚠️ Attention: at Almera N15 with engine GA16DE There is often a problem with the valve cover gasket - when buying a used car, be sure to check for oil leaks under it.
- N15 (1995–2000)
- N16 (2000–2006)
- G15 (2012–2019)
- B17 (2019–2026)
- New generation (2026–...)
Second generation: Nissan Almera N16 (2000–2006) - transition to the Renault platform
In 2000, the second generation debuted - Almera N16, which became the first joint project Nissan And Renault after the formation of the alliance. The machine is built on a platform Renault-Nissan MS, which was also used Renault Mégane II And Nissan Primera P12.
The design has become more modern: there are teardrop headlights, chrome grille and more streamlined body. In Russia, the model was offered only in a sedan body, while in Europe a hatchback and station wagon were available. The engines remained the same (1.5 And 1.8), but there is a new 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic with mode Overdrive.
| Modification | Engine | Power (hp) | Box | Acceleration 0–100 km/h (s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 | QG15DE | 98 | Manual transmission-5 / automatic transmission-4 | 12.5 / 14.2 |
| 1.8 | QG18DE | 114 | Manual transmission-5 / automatic transmission-4 | 10.8 / 12.1 |
| 2.2 dCi | YD22DDTi | 110 | Manual transmission-6 | 10.5 |
Main disadvantage N16 — poor sound insulation and poor interior ergonomics (for example, inconvenient location of climate control buttons). But the car was highly praised for its reliability: many copies still drive on Russian roads with mileage over 300,000+ km.
Upon purchase Almera N16 pay attention to the condition of the suspension - stabilizer struts and arm bushings wear out by 80–100 thousand km.
Third generation: Nissan Almera Classic (2006–2013) - “Korean” version for Russia
In 2006, it appeared in Russia Nissan Almera Classic - actually converted Samsung SM3 (Korean version Nissan Bluebird Sylphy). This car was the first Almeraassembled at the factory AvtoVAZ to Tolyatti according to the system industrial assembly (from ready-made units).
The model differed from previous generations:
- 🚗 More spacious interior (wheelbase increased to
2600 mm) - 🔋 New engines:
1.6(107 hp) and1.8(126 hp) with variable valve timing system - 🛡️ Improved security: 2 airbags and ABS as standard
- 💳 Richer packages (climate control, leather interior, alloy wheels)
Interesting fact: in Europe this model was sold as Nissan Almera Tino (compact van), and in Korea - like Samsung SM3. In Russia, it became one of the best-selling foreign cars of the early 2010s thanks to low price (from 450 thousand rubles) and unpretentiousness.
⚠️ Attention: at Almera Classic with engine HR16DE Problems often arise with the timing chain - its resource rarely exceeds 120 thousand km. If the chain breaks, the valve bends!
Why was Almera Classic assembled at AvtoVAZ?
In 2006, Nissan entered into an agreement with AvtoVAZ to localize production. The cars were assembled from Malaysian complete kits (CKD), which made it possible to reduce the price due to preferential customs duties. The build quality wasn't perfect, but it was better than Ladas of that era.
Fourth generation: Nissan Almera G15 (2012–2019) - global Versa for Russia
The fourth generation debuted in 2012 - Nissan Almera G15, which has become a complete clone of the global Nissan Versa for emerging markets. The car was developed specifically for countries with bad roads, so it received:
- 🛣️ Increased ground clearance (
160 mm) - 🔩 Reinforced suspension with reinforced levers
- 🔋 New HR16DE engine (109 hp) with aluminum block
- 🎛️ Simplified dashboard (many buttons have been moved to the steering wheel)
Unlike previous generations, Almera G15 was offered only in the body sedan and assembled at the factory Nissan Manatus in St. Petersburg. The car received a modern design in style "V-motion" (V-shaped radiator grille), but was criticized for cheap plastics in the cabin and poor sound insulation.
| Year | Changes | New options |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | Start of sales | Audio system with USB, air conditioning |
| 2015 | Restyling (new bumpers, LED DRLs) | Rear view camera, heated steering wheel |
| 2017 | The appearance of a version with automatic transmission (variator) | System NissanConnect with navigation |
Main advantage G15 — low cost of ownership. For example, fuel consumption in the combined cycle was only 6.2 l/100 km, and the price of spare parts was 20–30% lower than that of competitors (Kia Rio, Hyundai Solaris).
☑️ What to check when buying a used Almera G15
Fifth generation: Nissan Almera B17 (2019–2026) - transition to the CMF-B platform
In 2019, the fifth generation appeared - Nissan Almera B17, which became the first Almera on a modular platform CMF-B (same basis as Renault Logan And Dacia Sandero). The car has changed dramatically:
- 🚘 New body type liftback (trunk volume increased to
495 l) - 🔋 Only one engine —
HR16DE(114 hp) with CVT Xtronic - 🛡️ Security: 6 airbags, ESP, tire pressure monitoring system
- 💡 Salon: digital instrument panel, multimedia with Apple CarPlay
Main feature B17 — complete elimination of manual transmission. Now all versions were equipped only with a CVT, which caused a mixed reaction among buyers. But the car received high praise for comfort (improved sound insulation) and efficiency (consumption in the city - 7.5 l/100 km).
In 2022, the model was restyled: new bumpers, LED optics and expanded equipment appeared. Tekna with leather interior and system 360° cameras.
⚠️ Attention: variator Xtronic in Almera B17 requires oil changes every 60,000 km — if this rule is ignored, the box fails at 100–120 thousand km.
Nissan Almera B17 became the first model in the line to meet the Euro NCAP 2019 safety standard (4 stars out of 5).
Sixth generation: Nissan Almera (2026–...) - the return of the sedan?
The sixth generation is expected to debut in 2026 Nissan Almera, which, according to preliminary data, will again become sedan (unlike liftback B17). The new model is being developed based on Nissan Versa for the Latin American market and will receive:
- 🔥 New turbo engine
HRA0(1.0 l, 100–120 hp) with system mild hybrid - 🤖 ProPilot system (adaptive cruise control, lane keeping)
- 📱 Digital instrument panel diagonally
12.3" - 🌍 Hybrid version for the European market (not for Russia)
Official data has not yet been published, but it is known that the new Almera there will be shorter and lighter predecessors, which should have a positive effect on dynamics and fuel consumption. In Russia, the model will most likely retain the CVT and naturally aspirated engine 1.6, but with improved environmental standards (Euro 6).
If you are planning to buy a new Almera 2026, pay attention to the configuration with the system Nissan Safety Shield 360 — it includes automatic emergency braking and pedestrian recognition.
Comparison of generations: which is better to choose?
Every generation Nissan Almera has its pros and cons. Here's a quick comparison for those choosing between used models:
| Generation | Pros | Cons | Who is it suitable for? |
|---|---|---|---|
| N15 (1995–2000) | Simplicity of design, low maintenance | Outdated design, poor sound insulation | For retro lovers and minimalists |
| N16 (2000–2006) | Reliable engines, spacious interior | Electrical problems, body corrosion | For those looking for a budget family car |
| Classic (2006–2013) | Spacious trunk, unpretentiousness | Weak dynamics, poor handling | For taxi drivers and commercial use |
| G15 (2012–2019) | Low price, economical engine | Cheap interior materials, weak CVT | For young drivers and city driving |
| B17 (2019–2026) | Modern equipment, good security | Expensive CVT maintenance | For those who value comfort and technology |
If you need most reliable and cheap to repair option - pay attention to Almera N16 or Classic. Better suited for city driving G15, and if comfort and modern security systems are important, take it B17.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Almera
🔧 Which Nissan Almera engine is the most reliable?
The series engines are considered the most reliable QG (1.5 and 1.8 liters) from generation N16. They are known for their resource (up to 400,000 km with proper maintenance) and simplicity of design. Engines HR16DE (in G15 And B17) are also good, but require more frequent oil changes (every 7,500 km).
💰 How much does Almera maintenance cost per year?
The average cost of maintenance depends on the generation:
- N15/N16: ~20,000 rub/year (cheap spare parts, simple design)
- Classic: ~25,000 rub/year (replacement of consumables is required more often)
- G15/B17: ~35,000–45,000 rub/year (variator and electronics are more expensive)
The most expensive element to maintain is the variator (an oil change costs ~10,000 rubles).
⚡ Is it possible to install HBO on Nissan Almera?
Technically yes, but there are some nuances:
- On N15/N16 with engines
GA16DE/QG18DEHBO is installed without problems. - On HR16DE (G15/B17) required ECU reconfiguration, otherwise misfires are possible.
- CVT Xtronic does not tolerate operation on gas - the service life of the box may be reduced.
Recommended generation for HBO - Almera Classic (simple engine, manual transmission).
🔄 How often do you need to change the oil in the Almera G15/B17 variator?
Official regulations Nissan - every 60,000 km, but in practice it is better to reduce the interval to 40,000–50,000 km, especially if:
- You often drive in traffic jams.
- Operate the machine in extreme heat/cold conditions.
- Noticed jerks or delays when shifting gears.
Use only original oil Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3!
🚗 Which Almera is better: with a manual or a CVT?
The choice depends on your driving style:
- Mechanics (N15, N16, Classic): more reliable, cheaper to repair, better for aggressive driving.
- CVT (G15, B17): more comfortable in the city, more economical, but requires careful handling.
If you drive mostly around the city and don’t like to change gears often, take a CVT. For long trips and off-road driving, a manual is better.