2012 Nissan Almera Undergoes Nigeria Road Test

Date: 04-07-2012 6:56 am (11 years ago) | Author: Omogbolahan Babs
- at 4-07-2012 06:56 AM (11 years ago)
(m)
About two weeks after presenting the all-new Nissan Almera to motoring journalists in Lagos, the vehicle will be officially released to the motoring public on Thursday.

Nissan says the Almera is an all-new car, built with modern ride and a sculpted exterior body oozing both charm and upwardly-mobile styling.

Alliance Autos and Sun Motors Nigeria Limited, both members of CFAO Group and distributors of Nissan brand of automobile in Nigeria, released the new vehicle to journalists for a rigorous test drive penultimate Saturday.

The vehicle was subjected to test on the peculiar Nigerian road condition.

The journey, which started from Alliance Auto office on Adeola Odeoku, Victoria Island, terminated at Eleko Beach, Lekki. The Almera was expectedly not taken through the sandy beach, it is not a four-wheel drive.

The Nissan distributors explain the rationale behind the introduction of the Almera. They say, “For our customers living in these exciting times, Nissan introduces the all-new Almera, a brand-new sedan, which is both up-market and stylish yet is very competitively priced. It echoes the strong the global drive towards eco-sensibility with low Co2 outputs and frugal fuel consumption, but packages this sound base in a distinctly smart styling with just the right trimmings.”

They note that in 2012, the profile of the new car buyer in African markets has shifted radically from traditional patterns. They sum up this, in a synopsis of the new vehicle, saying, “The rapid economic growth, and the process of motorisation being driven by the flourishing middle-class and with levels of growth continuing to outstrip embattled developed markets, addressing the specific needs of this market has become critical for the global players wishing to participate in this promising environment.”

The statement quoted the Managing Director of Alliance Autos Mr. Ian Middleton, as saying, “The new Almera is one of those clear-cut cases, when a large multinational company is driven in effect by its customers.

“It is a product, which just combines so much of the real-world demand for cars in emerging markets that it is way beyond coincidence; classy looks, comfortable ride, reliable and affordable to buy and to run.”

Middleton says the Almera comes with just one engine option, a 1.5 litre, four-cylinder petrol engine, featuring dual injection and variable timing, which works on both the intake and exhaust cycles to produce 73kw and 134Nm.

The Almera’s starting price is N2.5m.

General Manager of Sun Motors Limited, Mr. Pankaj Arora says, “The world has changed, lets step up. Almera is smart and stylish, it opens the mind of an individual and re-examines ones expectation from a car. Nissan has proved its continuous endeavour to deliver quality, style and value for money to the consumers.

“Almera is a new world of comfort, sophisticated, crispy sporty rear, provides ample space and promises a level of refinement. One experiences a comfortable and roomy drive.”

Looking at other features of the vehicle, its door mirrors were developed for use on the award-winning Leaf EV, the boot lid acts as a discrete spoiler, the step between A-pillar and windshield is all but eliminated, and the fuel tank and rear suspension beam are flush with the floor to improve the under body airflow.

The attention to detail has driven down wind noise, which further enhances the charms of the well-appointed interior.

The manufacturer says the cabin occupants will feel liberated by the significant room available, which can be kept neat and free of clutter. This is made possible by the ample storage space provided.

The driver will also appreciate the open architecture for a clear and unobstructed view of the road. Its small size and low weight also allows for easy manoeuving.


Posted: at 4-07-2012 06:56 AM (11 years ago) | Gistmaniac
- winace at 4-07-2012 08:01 AM (11 years ago)
(f)
I hope d tyres are made for nigerian road.
Posted: at 4-07-2012 08:01 AM (11 years ago) | Addicted Hero
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