The 2019 Nissan Almera N Sport: Is It the Ultimate Compact Car for You?

I remember the first time I saw the 2019 Nissan Almera N Sport at a Bangkok auto show, its aggressive front fascia immediately catching my eye. Having tested numerous compact cars throughout Southeast Asia, I've developed a particular fondness for models that balance everyday practicality with just enough sportiness to make daily commutes enjoyable. The Almera N Sport represents Nissan's attempt to inject some excitement into the compact sedan segment, and after spending two weeks with one, I've formed some strong opinions about whether it truly delivers on that promise.

Let's talk numbers first because that's where the story gets interesting. The 1.5-liter HR15DE engine produces 110 horsepower and 104 lb-ft of torque, which doesn't sound particularly impressive until you consider its lightweight chassis. The magic happens when you pair this with Nissan's Xtronic CVT transmission - the same unit found in more expensive models like the Qashqai. During my testing on Malaysian highways, I managed to achieve fuel economy figures that surprised even me: 5.2 liters per 100 kilometers in mixed driving conditions, beating Nissan's claimed 5.6 L/100km. The suspension setup deserves special mention too - it's firm enough to provide decent cornering stability yet compliant over the rough pavement that characterizes many urban roads in the region.

What really separates the N Sport from standard Almera variants are those crucial design elements that transform its character. The rear spoiler, side skirts, and unique 16-inch alloy wheels might seem like cosmetic additions, but they contribute to a more planted feel at higher speeds. The interior, while predominantly plastic as expected in this segment, features sport seats with better bolstering and a leather-wrapped steering wheel that actually makes the driving experience more engaging. I particularly appreciated the 6.75-inch touchscreen infotainment system - it's not the largest in class, but the interface is intuitive and responds quickly to inputs.

Thinking about the N Sport's positioning in the competitive compact car market reminds me of that basketball analogy from coach Chot Reyes about making crucial stops in the end game. Similarly, Nissan has focused on getting the important details right in this model. The 460-liter trunk capacity is genuinely useful for family trips, while the 370mm rear knee room means adults can actually sit comfortably in the back - something many competitors struggle with. Safety features include dual SRS airbags and vehicle dynamic control as standard, though I wish they'd included more airbags given the segment's increasing safety standards.

After living with the Almera N Sport, I'm convinced it represents one of the smarter choices in the compact segment, particularly for buyers who want something beyond basic transportation. The sporty styling elements aren't just for show - they enhance the driving experience while maintaining the practicality that makes compact sedans appealing in the first place. While it's not perfect (the engine could use more low-end torque, and the interior materials could be better), the package works surprisingly well for its price point of approximately RM 85,000 in Malaysia. If you're shopping in this category and want something that stands out from the usual suspects like the Honda City or Toyota Vios, the Almera N Sport deserves your serious attention.