Nissan Almera The 2016 is a compact sedan that has become a hit in emerging markets thanks to its combination of affordability, reliability and ruggedness. Model also known as Nissan Sunny in some regions, replaced the outdated Almera Classic and offered customers a modern design, improved sound insulation and more fuel-efficient engines.
In 2016, the car underwent restyling, which affected not only the appearance (the bumpers, radiator grille and optics were updated), but also the technical part. This model has become especially relevant for those who are looking for a budget sedan with automatic transmission - a rarity in this segment. However, Almera There are also some features that you should know about before purchasing: from modest dynamics to specifics of service.
Engines and transmission: what did the 2016 Nissan Almera offer?
In 2016 Nissan Almera was equipped with only one gasoline engine - naturally aspirated 1.6-liter HR16DE power 102 hp at 6000 rpm. This motor, developed jointly with Renault, is known for its reliability, but not outstanding dynamic characteristics. A torque of 145 Nm is achieved at 4000 rpm, which makes the car more of a slow-moving vehicle than a sports car.
The transmission was offered to choose from:
- 🔹 5-speed manual transmission - a classic option for economical drivers. Combined fuel consumption:
6.2 l/100 km. - 🔹 4-speed automatic (model Jatco RE4F03B) - a rarity for the budget segment, but with a noticeable increase in consumption up to
7.1 l/100 km.
It's important to note that automatic transmission on Almera 2016 is not the most modern - it was inherited from previous generations and requires careful handling. For example, when towing or long traffic jams, it is recommended to switch to L (lower gear) to avoid overheating.
- Mechanics - more reliable and cheaper
- Automatic - comfort is more important
- CVT - if there was a choice
- It doesn't matter, the main thing is the price
Fuel consumption: real numbers vs factory data
Official fuel consumption data for Nissan Almera 2016 looks optimistic, but in practice the numbers are often different. The manufacturer declares:
- 🛣️ Urban cycle (manual transmission):
8.5 l/100 km/ (automatic transmission):9.3 l/100 km - 🌿 Country cycle (manual transmission):
5.1 l/100 km/ (automatic transmission):5.8 l/100 km - 🔄 Mixed cycle (manual transmission):
6.2 l/100 km/ (automatic transmission):7.1 l/100 km
However, owners in reviews note that in Russian conditions (winter starts, traffic jams, 92nd gasoline), real consumption can reach 10–12 l/100 km in the city for the automatic version. Reasons:
- 🔋 Outdated 4-speed automatic transmission with wide steps, which is “stupid” when overtaking.
- ❄️ Long warm-up in winter (motor HR16DE does not like cold starts).
- ⛽ Low quality fuel at some gas stations, which leads to detonation and increased appetite.
To reduce fuel consumption by Almera with automatic transmission, use the mode OD OFF (button on the lever) when driving along the highway at a speed of 80–90 km/h. This blocks shifting to 4th gear and saves up to 0.5 l/100 km.
Dimensions, ground clearance and trunk: how practical is Almera?
Nissan Almera 2016 belongs to the class compact sedans, but by the standards of the budget segment it offers quite decent sizes:
| Parameter | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Length | 4656 mm |
| Width | 1695 mm |
| Height | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm |
| Clearance | 160 mm (enlargement package available up to 180 mm) |
Clearance in 160 mm — this is an average figure for the class, but taking into account the long overhangs, the car can “strike” its belly on steep exits. Trunk volume 490 liters - one of the most spacious in the segment, but its shape is inconvenient for transporting large loads due to the high threshold and narrow neck.
⚠️ Attention: When installing winter tires with studs on Almera check the gap between the wheel and the arch - in some configurations, when the steering wheel is turned completely, it may touch.
Options and equipment: what did the official dealer offer?
In 2016 Nissan Almera in Russia it was officially sold in three trim levels:
- 🔘 Comfort — basic version with air conditioning, one airbag, power accessories and steel wheels.
- 🔘 Elegance - added fog lights, heated front seats, audio system with
USBAndBluetooth. - 🔘 Tekna — top version with climate control, leather steering wheel, rear view camera and stabilization system ESP.
Options that are often missed when buying used Almera:
- 🔧 Heated windshield - a rare option, but extremely useful in Russian realities.
- 🎵 Multimedia system with navigation - it is not available in basic versions, only
AUXAndUSB. - 🚗 Even in the top Tekna There are no rear parking sensors - only a camera.
How to distinguish the restyled Almera 2016 from the pre-reform one?
The restyled version (since 2016) has:
- New headlights with chrome trim and a modified lens pattern.
- A radiator grille with three transverse stripes (the pre-reform one had two).
- Bumpers with integrated foglights (previously they were round and separate).
- Updated rear lights with LED elements in top trim levels.
Reliability and typical problems of Nissan Almera 2016
Engine HR16DE considered one of the most reliable in the line Nissan, but it also has weaknesses:
- 🛢️ Maslozhor — after 100,000 km can reach
1 l/1000 km. Solved by replacing the valve stem seals. - 🔥 Overheating - This is due to a weak radiator and thermostat. Symptoms: The cooling fan runs constantly.
- 🔊 Knocking in the suspension — most often the stabilizer struts or shock absorber supports are to blame (lifespan ~60,000 km).
Gearbox:
- 🔄 The mechanics are practically “indestructible”, but the input shaft bearing may make noise after 150,000 km.
- 🔄 The machine gun is a weak point Almera. Signs of wear: jerking when switching, delays during acceleration. Resource -
180,000–200,000 kmwith careful use.
⚠️ Attention: If when checking a used one Almera with an automatic transmission, you notice that the oil in the box is black or smells like burning - this is a reason to bargain or refuse to buy. The oil in the machine must be changed every 60,000 km, but many owners ignore this rule.
Condition of the valve stem seals (is there any oil in the spark plug wells) |
Thermostat operation (temperature needle should not jump)|
Play in the steering rack (a typical problem after 100,000 km)|
Condition of the silent blocks of the rear beam (crackling noise when driving over uneven surfaces) |
Checking errors via OBD-II (frequent errors on the oxygen sensor P0130/P0136)-->
Market prices and is it worth buying Almera 2016 today?
As of 2026 Nissan Almera 2016 on the Russian secondary market costs from 650,000 to 900,000 rubles, depending on mileage and equipment. The most popular options:
- 💰 Comfort with manual transmission —
650 000–750 000 ₽(mileage up to 100,000 km). - 💰 Elegance with automatic transmission —
750 000–850 000 ₽(mileage up to 80,000 km). - 💰 Tekna with automatic transmission —
850 000–950 000 ₽(rarely found with mileage less than 70,000 km).
Is it worth buying? Almera 2016 is suitable for those who are looking for:
- ✅ Inexpensive sedan with automatically (rare in budgets up to 900,000 ₽).
- ✅ Easy to repair - spare parts are cheap and common.
- ✅ Spacious interior and trunk for a family.
But there are also disadvantages:
- ❌ Weak dynamics - you will have to overtake on the highway with time to spare.
- ❌ Noisy suspension on uneven surfaces (even after restyling, the sound insulation leaves much to be desired).
- ❌ Low liquidity - sell Almera in 3–4 years it will be more difficult than Toyota Corolla or Hyundai Solaris.
If you choose between Almera with manual transmission and automatic transmission, please note: manual transmission will cost less to maintain, but automatic transmission adds comfort. The best option is Elegance with manual transmission, since it is equipped with heated seats and multimedia, which is critical for Russian conditions.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Almera 2016
❓ What oil should I fill into the HR16DE engine?
Manufacturer recommends oil 5W-30 or 5W-40 according to standard API SN or ILSAC GF-5. Popular options:
- 🛢️ Nissan Strong Save X 5W-30 (original).
- 🛢️ Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 (to extend the resource).
- 🛢️ Liqui Moly Special Tec AA 5W-30 (with mileage >100,000 km).
Oil volume when changing: 4.3 l (with filter). Replacement must be done every 10,000 km or once a year.
❓ Is it possible to install HBO on Almera 2016?
Yes, but with reservations:
- ✅ Engine HR16DE adapted for operation on gas, but requires ECU adjustment.
- ⚠️ Automatic transmission may suffer from loss of power on gas (especially when overtaking).
- 🔧 It is recommended to install a 4th generation HBO with a lambda probe emulator.
Average gas consumption: 8–9 l/100 km in the city. Equipment payback - approx. 50,000 km mileage
❓ What is the service life of the clutch on a mechanical Almera?
Clutch on Almera with manual transmission lasts on average 120,000–150,000 km, but the resource depends on the driving style:
- 🚗 In the city (frequent starts/stops) - wear accelerates to
100,000 km. - 🛣️ On the track - can last up to
180,000 km.
Signs of wear: slipping during a sharp start, vibrations on the pedal, difficulty shifting gears. The cost of replacing a clutch kit (disc + basket + release) - from 15,000 to 20,000 RUR.
❓ What tires does Nissan recommend for Almera 2016?
Factory tire sizes:
- 🔄
185/65 R15- basic equipment. - 🔄
195/55 R16- for versions Elegance And Tekna.
Recommended models for Russian conditions:
| Season | Tire model | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | Nokian Nordman SX2 | A budget option with good resistance to aquaplaning. |
| Summer | Michelin Energy Saver+ | Low rolling resistance, saves fuel. |
| Winter | Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 | Velcro with excellent grip on ice. |
| Winter | Cordiant Snow Cross | Budget studded tires. |
❓ Which battery is suitable for Almera 2016?
A battery with a capacity of 60 Ah with starting current 540 A. Recommended analogues:
- 🔋 Bosch S4 005 (60 Ah, 540 A) - the best option in terms of price/quality.
- 🔋 Varta Blue Dynamic D24 (60 Ah, 540 A) - high resistance to deep discharges.
- 🔋 Mutlu Calcium Silver 60R (60 Ah, 540 A) - budget Turkish battery.
Polarity: reverse (R+). When replacing, pay attention to the height of the battery - it should not exceed 190 mm, otherwise it won’t fit into the regular place.