Nissan Australia has begun the renewal of its passenger car portfolio with the launch of the all-new Almera.

Almera is a light car that is big on space, comfort and value. Almera combines a sophisticated exterior design, well-appointed interior and exceptional room for five adults – including more rear legroom and boot space than many mid-size sedans.

Almera complements the popular Micra hatch in the light car segment, with both models sharing Nissan's global V-platform.

Following Almera will be the return of Pulsar, led by Pulsar sedan in early 2013 and followed by Pulsar hatch mid-year. Nissan's all-new Altima medium sized sedan then goes on sale in Australia in the second half of 2013.

"The Almera provides sensational value with its spacious, comfortable interior and impressive equipment levels," said Nissan Australia CEO William F Peffer Jr.

"Almera represents a new segment opportunity for Nissan in the Australian market, sitting alongside Micra in the light car segment.

"More people are looking to small cars, but their lifestyle still requires a car that can accommodate good cabin and boot space. The exceptional design and packaging of the Almera answers that call.

"The introduction of Almera to the Nissan product portfolio begins the renewal of our passenger car range, with Pulsar and Altima to enter the local market next year. With the Altima also on-track in the V8 Supercars Championship from next season, there are exciting times ahead for Nissan's sedan range."

Almera features quality that exceeds the segment with roomy, comfortable cabin space in front and back seats in an affordable, fuel-efficient package. The Almera's rear seat legroom (940mm) and outstanding boot space (490 litres boot capacity) set the Almera apart from its sedan competitors in the light car segment.

Segment-leading interior comfort and space

The long list of standard accessories in the Almera's comfortable, modern interior includes Bluetooth hands-free phone system, steering wheel audio controls, central locking with remote keyless entry and four-speaker audio system with MP3 player auxiliary input jack.

Almera Ti includes additional features such as rear park assist, climate control, intelligent keyless entry and push button engine start.

The Multi-Function Drive Computer in the Nissan Almera puts all the necessary information at the driver's fingertips, with display options for fuel consumption, remaining driving range and service reminder information.

Sleek exterior styling

The Almera's stylish and aerodynamic design features Nissan's next generation sedan signature grille and large multi-reflector halogen headlights.

Almera Ti offers 15-inch alloy wheels, fog lights and a rear spoiler.

The Nissan Almera is available in six colours: Brilliant Silver, Burning Red, Deep Sapphire, Ebony, Titanium and White Diamond.

Safety features ensuring peace of mind

The easy-to-drive Almera offers peace of mind with safety features including Vehicle Stability Control, ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist.

Almera also includes the full complement of six airbags across all grades, with dual front, side and curtain airbags.

Proven Nissan engine quality and efficiency

The Almera's four cylinder, 16-valve, 1.5-litre petrol engine provides 75 kilowatts power and 139Nm torque, driven through the front wheels.

The punchy, responsive engine is also efficient and economical, recording 6.3L/100km fuel use.

Almera ST is equipped with a five speed manual transmission or a four speed automatic option.

Global success story

Sold as the Nissan Versa in the United States, this model has been a highly popular car and a huge sales success.

The Versa family includes sedan and hatchback versions in the US and leads the sub-compact (light) market, outselling its nearest competitors Honda Fit, Hyundai Accent, and Ford Fiesta for a more than 22 percent share of the segment.

The Versa nameplate was recently named in Kelley Blue Book's (KBB.com) '10 Best Back-To-School Cars of 2012' list. KBB.com's editors saw the Versa as a sensible solution that meets the needs and wants of students citing its ample cargo space, budget-friendly fuel efficiency and array of safety features.

"We expect Australian families would also be convinced of the Almera's advantages of space, economy and practicality," said Nissan Australia CEO William F Peffer Jr.

The Almera is also sold as the Nissan Sunny in China.

For further information:

Jeffrey Fisher
General Manager – Corporate Communications & Motorsport Nissan Australia
Phone: (03) 9797 4358 Email: jeff_fisher@nissan.com.au

Chris Jordan
Press & PR Supervisor
Nissan Australia
Phone: (03) 9797 4155 Email: chris_jordan@nissan.com.au

SPECIFICATIONS RUNDOWN

Almera ST (automatic and manual)

Powertrain + Exterior Features

75 kW / 139 Nm 1.5L petrol engine
6.3l / 100km combined cycle (M/T)
Body coloured power door mirrors
15" steel wheels with covers
Chrome grille and exterior finishing
Remote boot release

Interior Features

4 function drive computer
Fine Vision instrument display
Tilt adjustable steering
Central locking with remote keyless entry Air conditioning
4 speaker audio with MP3 player AUX jack Bluetooth hands free phone connectivity Steering wheel audio & handsfree controls

Safety Features

Dual front, side & curtain air bags
Driver seat belt warning indicator & alarm 3 PT seat belts w/ ELR
ABS w/ EBD, BA, VDC

Almera Ti (automatic) – ST spec plus/or:

Exterior Features:

15" alloy wheels
Front fog lamps
Rear spoiler
Rear Park Assist

Interior Features

i-Key
Push button start
Variable intermittent wipers
Climate control A/C
Rear centre armrest with integrated cupholders Rear passenger adjustable headrests

Issued by Nissan