1999 Nissan Almera GTi review from UK and Ireland

Nothing in the 35k miles so far.

After two years of Almera GTI ownership it's time to give my verdict. Unfortunately it's a rather mixed review as there are things I really like and really hate about the car, but overall I still think it's an overlooked bargain GTI.

Good Points:

Engine - Amazingly smooth all the way to 7,000 rpm.

Handling - Very well balanced except when it's wet, when it understeers massively. Steering is fantastic.

Ride - What I'd call about perfect, minimal roll without being rock hard.

Reliability - Feels very well engineered (except the interior) and never feels like it would let you down.

Economy - Tall gearing (see below) means 40+ mpg can be had on a long run (personal record 42mpg from a tank!).

Refinement - Cruises smoothly and quietly.

Equipment - Absolutely fully loaded for half the price of the equivalent Golf.

Bad Points:

Engine - Is poor between 2.5k to 4k rpm and tails off too quickly above 6k.

Performance/Gearing - Gearing (especially 3rd) is too high and means it never feels truly quick.

Interior - Mine suffers from a huge number of rattles and squeaks on the inside. Also the front seat just doesn't quite go back far enough for six-footers like me.

Rare - And most cars are either neglected or thrashed.