Test Drive – Nissan Almera Tuned by Impul


[Review]
I attended the Nissan Almera launch back in October last year (you can read about that here – https://timchew.net/2012/10/31/nissan-almera-launched-in-malaysia/) and the nice folks at Edaran Tan Chong Motors decided to lend me the Nissan Almera tuned by Impul to test-drive for a weekend.
The Nissan Almera is a B-segment locally assembled sedan and boasted class-leading cabin room and boot space for a car it’s size. Well it was time to put it to the test.

My model for this shoot is none other than MHB’s Wan Ting aka SnowXwhite
The Nissan ALMERA is built on an all-new global “V” (versatile) platform which utilizes a lightweight yet rigid body.
IMPUL Aerokit – The IMPUL front bumper spoiler, new radiator grille, side skirts, rear bumper spoiler and rear boot spoiler adds a very sporty and stylish appearance to the Almera.
IMPUL Blast 2 Exhaust Muffler – Enjoy a low growl thanks to the IMPUL sports exhaust muffler.
The IMPUL radiator grill instantly sets this baby apart!
Tuned by IMPUL baby! IMPUL is the famous Japanese automotive aftermarket company founded by Nissan’s factory driver, Kazuyoshi Hoshino and exclusively produces aftermarket parts for Nissans, such as bodykits, engine components and wheels.
LED Wing Mirror Signal Lights (optional accessory)
halogen headlights
Here’s what they look like in the dark! Very cool indeed!
The rear view
Sporty combination tail-lights
IMPUL HS-06 Alloy Wheel (16”) – Looking very stylish in silver and black with a matte finish. The alloy materials and Super Cast process used by IMPUL decreases the weight of the wheels by 20% – 30%, while improving driving performance without compromising quality and safety. The road to my house has some sharp turns but the Almera didn’t complain at all. (Consumers can also choose to upgrade to a 17” IMPUL Aura SX-10 alloy wheel for a fee.)
Powerplant & Transmission
The Almera is powered by a 1.5 litre, 4-cylinder, In-line, DOHC with CVTC (Continuously Variable-Valve Timing Control) and Drive-by-Wire Technology. Max power is 102ps at 6,000rpm while max torque is 139Nm at 4,000rpm.
The engine is either mated to a manual 5-speed gearbox (E variant) or auto 4-speed gearbox (V and VL variants).
Suspension & Handling
The front is independent MacPherson struts with stabilizer bar while the rear is torsion beam. (FYI the standard Almera comes with 15” steel rims with full cover (E variant) or 15” 7-spoke alloy rim (V and VL variants) with 185 / 65 R15 tyres.
IMPUL Super Shock Suspension System – The system consists of shock absorbers and coil springs, which have been specially tuned by IMPUL engineers. The ride height is lowered by 30mm with increased lateral force support for more agile handling and distinct road contact.
Safety 
The brakes are equipped with ABS, EBD and a brake assist system, while there are SRS airbags for the driver and front passenger.
Now to the interior.
Wan Ting very at home with the car
I was surprised at the amount of leg room at the back. The driver’s seat was adjusted to accommodate my height (5′ 10″) and look at the remaining room at the back!
Sport Pedal (A/T variants only) – optional accessory
LED Stainless Steel Kicking Plant – something usually found on luxury cars – the stainless steel kicking plate protects the car’s interior and is lit by LEDs when the car lights are on. (optional accessory)
Chrome door handles – V and VL variants only
The centre multi-function display includes the radio which is also the multimedia navigation console that displayed the view from the rear view camera, and is also a DVD player which has iPod connectivity, USB and Bluetooth capabilities.
The instrument panels at night
Automatic aircon (VL variant only)
I found this feature very very useful indeed!
And the GPS navigation was handy too. Relatively easy to set the destination and the map was pretty up to date.
The start/ stop button just adds to the coolness factor
The instrument cluster also includes a Multi Information Display while the steering wheel has Illuminated Audio Controls.
The boot is a spacious 490 litres with a wide open area capable of carrying up to 4 golf bags.

All in all I thought the Almera was good value for money and surprisingly roomy! Good for cruising around the city.
The on-the-road price (inclusive of insurance, road tax, registration fee and ownership claim fee) for Peninsular Malaysia will be as follows:

Grade

Variant

Price (RM)

E

1.5 M/T

66,813.50

1.5 A/T

69,813.50

V

1.5 A/T

76,813.50

VL

1.5 A/T

79,813.50

The Nissan ALMERA is differentiated by the standard specification E, well equipped V & full specification VL and all come with a 3-year or 100,000 km warranty (whichever comes first).
For more personalisation, customers can opt for the exclusive ALMERA Optional Accessories. Premium accessories include the on board multimedia navigation console (with a rear view, DVD player, iPod connectivity, USB and Bluetooth capabilities), LED kicking plate and luxurious leather seats.
Sport accessories by IMPUL Motor Racing Development, which have been tailored specifically to suit Malaysian roads, are also available. The complete Tuned by IMPUL package is available for all grades for an additional RM9,500.00.
More info at http://www.nissan.com.my