Nissan Almera is one of the most recognizable sedans in the line of the Japanese brand, which has changed several generations and design concepts over the years of production. From the humble subcompact of the 1990s to the modern budget sedan with a signature grille V-Motion, the model has evolved while maintaining its practicality and accessibility. In this article we will look at what it looks like Almera in different generations, what to look for when choosing and what exterior details set it apart from its competitors.
If you are planning a purchase or are simply interested in design, here you will find detailed photos, comparisons of generations and key visual differences restyled versions. Let’s also look at why some body elements (for example, the shape of the headlights or taillights) can tell about the year of manufacture faster than the VIN code.
N15 generation (1995–2000): modest debut with a European accent
First generation Nissan Almera (index N15) appeared in 1995 as a replacement for the model Sunny for the European market. The design was developed taking into account the trends of the mid-90s: smooth lines, rounded headlights and a minimalistic radiator grille. The body was offered in three versions: 3- and 5-door hatchback, as well as a classic 4-door sedan.
Distinctive Features N15:
- 🔹 Headlights - round in shape, with transparent lenses (in top versions - with “angel eyes” in the 1998 restyling).
- 🔹 Bumper — plastic, painted in body color, with integrated fog lights (optional).
- 🔹 Wheel arches - slightly “convex”, which gave the car a sporty touch.
- 🔹 Tail lights — vertical, with a clear division into sections (dimension/stop/turn).
The 1998 restyling brought more modern bumpers, a redesigned grille and new taillights with transparent inserts. Interestingly, in Japan this model was sold as Nissan Pulsar, and in Australia - like Nissan Sentra.
⚠️ Attention: Often found on the secondary market N15 with “European” headlights (without “angel eyes”) and “Japanese” (with chrome inserts). This is not a fake, but features of configurations for different markets.
Generation N16 (2000–2006): transition to rigor and reliability
Almera N16 debuted in 2000 with a completely updated design that reflected the transition to more formal forms. The car became larger, and the body acquired more angular outlines. This generation is often called the “most reliable” due to its simple design and availability of spare parts.
Visual features N16:
- 🔹 Front — trapezoidal radiator grille with chrome trim, headlights with clear edges.
- 🔹 Hood - with two longitudinal “ribs” that add aggressiveness.
- 🔹 Side line - high waist line, emphasized by moldings.
- 🔹 Rear — lights with red lenses and a chrome strip between them.
In 2003, restyling took place: the shape of the bumpers changed ("smiles" appeared on the sides), the headlights were updated (in top versions - with lenses), and the grille became more massive. Interestingly, in Mexico this model was sold as Nissan Tsuru until 2017!
- N15 (1995–2000)
- N16 (2000–2006)
- G15 (2006–2012)
- B17 (2012–2019)
- New (since 2019)
- I don't know
| Parameter | N15 (1995–2000) | N16 (2000–2006) |
|---|---|---|
| Body length | 4165 mm | 4420 mm |
| Headlight shape | Rounded | Angular, with edges |
| Radiator grille | Narrow, with horizontal slats | Trapezoidal, with chrome |
| Tail lights | Vertical, with clear sections | Horizontal, with red diffusers |
G15 generation (2006–2012): global design and Renault platform
Third generation Almera G15 was the result of cooperation Nissan And Renault - the car was built on a platform Renault-Nissan B, which was also used Renault Megane II And Samsung SM3. The design has become more streamlined, with an emphasis on dynamics.
Key Exterior Elements G15:
- 🔹 Front optics — drop-shaped headlights with transparent lenses, in top versions — with xenon.
- 🔹 Radiator grille — large, with a chrome frame and horizontal bars.
- 🔹 Side mirrors — with integrated turn signals (optional).
- 🔹 Rear — lights with LED elements (restyling in 2009), bumper with diffuser.
The 2009 restyling brought updated bumpers, LED daytime running lights and a redesigned grille. In some countries (for example, Russia) this model was sold as Nissan Almera Classic in parallel with G15.
Upon purchase Almera G15 pay attention to the condition of the front fenders - they often suffer from corrosion due to poor anti-gravel protection.
Generation B17 (2012–2019): Return to roots and focus on practicality
Almera B17 became the answer Nissan to the growing demand for budget sedans in developing countries. The car was developed specifically for the markets of Russia, India, Mexico and the Middle East. The design returned to more conservative forms, but with modern accents.
Distinctive Features B17:
- 🔹 Front - grate V-Motion (corporate style Nissan), headlights with clear edges.
- 🔹 Side line — high belt line, short overhangs, wheels
R15in the database. - 🔹 Rear — lights with LED elements (in top versions), bumper with reflectors.
- 🔹 Body — galvanized, but with vulnerable spots (arches and sills).
In 2015, it was restyled: the bumpers were updated, LED running lights appeared, and the grille became more massive. In Mexico this model was sold as Nissan Versa Sedan.
⚠️ Attention: U Almera B17 a common problem with threshold corrosion due to poor seam processing. When inspecting, be sure to check these areas with a magnet!
☑️ What to check when inspecting Almera B17
New generation (from 2019): modern design and CMF-B platform
Modern Nissan Almera (index B17 for some markets, but in fact - a new generation) debuted in 2019 on the platform CMF-B, which is also used Renault Logan And Dacia Sandero. The design has become more aggressive, with an emphasis on signature V-Motion grille and LED optics.
Exterior Features:
- 🔹 Front — large grille with chrome inserts, narrow LED headlights.
- 🔹 Side line — dynamic “kinks” on the doors, wheels
R16in top versions. - 🔹 Rear — lights with 3D effect, integrated spoiler on the trunk lid.
- 🔹 Color solutions — two-color options available (black roof + body).
A unique detail: the new Almera's C-shaped taillights are a signature Nissan design element also used on the Qashqai and X-Trail.
Why do the new Almera have such narrow headlights?
Narrow LED headlights are not only a consequence of a design trend, but also a way to improve aerodynamics. In addition, they visually “stretch” the front end, making the car longer.
Comparison with competitors: what makes Almera stand out?
Against the background of classmates (Hyundai Solaris, Kia Rio, Renault Logan) Almera stands out with several visual details:
| Detail | Nissan Almera | Hyundai Solaris | Kia Rio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lattice shape | V-Motion | Hexagonal (“cascade”) | "Tiger's Mouth" |
| Tail lights | C-shaped, with LED | Rectangular, with LED | Triangular, with LED |
| Belt line | High, with a kink | Smooth, wavy | Smooth, with chrome |
Main visual advantage Almera — more aggressive and sporty look compared to competitors. For example, lattice V-Motion looks more dynamic than a “smiling” grille Solaris.
If recognition is important to you, choose Almera with LED headlights and two-tone paint. Such cars are less likely to get into accidents due to better visibility.
How to determine the year of manufacture by the exterior?
If you buy Almera on the secondary market, several visual details will help determine the year of manufacture without documents:
- 🔹 N15 (1995–2000): round headlights without lenses → 1998 restyling has transparent turn signals in the headlights.
- 🔹 N16 (2000–2006): before 2003 - small fog lights, after - large ones, integrated into the bumper.
- 🔹 G15 (2006–2012): before 2009 - headlights without LED, after - with LED running lights.
- 🔹 B17 (2012–2019): before 2015 - a grille with thin chrome strips, after - with wide ones.
- 🔹 New generation (since 2019): only this version has headlights that “go” into the wings, and the grille has a 3D structure.
Also note wheel cap shape — in earlier versions they are made of plastic, in new ones they are light alloy, even in basic configurations.
FAQ: frequently asked questions about the appearance of Almera
Why does the Almera N16 have such high headlights?
High headlight position N16 associated with the safety requirements of the early 2000s - this improved the illumination of the roadside. In addition, this gave the car a more “grown-up” look compared to N15.
Is it possible to install LED headlights on an old Almera?
Technically yes, but for N15 And N16 The entire headlight unit will need to be replaced (since the standard optics are not designed for LED). For G15 and newer, you can install LED lamps in standard headlights, but this may cause problems with the traffic police (certification required).
Which Almera is the most beautiful?
This is subjective, but according to owner surveys it is the leader new generation (since 2019) thanks to modern design and LED optics. Among the classics there are N16 for its strict lines and “brutal” appearance.
Why does the Almera B17 have such small wheels?
Basic version B17 complete with wheels R15 to reduce cost. However, even with such wheels, the ground clearance remains sufficient for Russian roads (160 mm). In top versions, disks are installed R16.
How to distinguish the restyled Almera G15 from the pre-restyled one?
The main differences between the 2009 restyling: LED running lights in the headlights, reshaped bumpers (more rounded corners) and chrome grille trim. The restyle also has different taillights - with transparent sections.