EDARAN Tan Chong Motor's (ETCM) stealthy 2024 cosmetic update to Nissan's premier B-segment model has given the Almera its edgiest design look yet.
The Kuro Edition, which is a translation of Black Edition in Japanese, comes with factory-fitted styling enhancements that encompass a gloss black front grille cladding and black alloy rims, all of which are selectively applied across the VL, VLP and VLT variants as standard equipment.
One major highlight is the addition of the Glacier Grey exterior body colour.
The standard Kuro package builds on the aerokit developed exclusively by Tomei Japan for the Almera Turbo by adopting a front bumper spoiler, rear bumper spoilers, side skirts and boot lid spoiler all in Gloss Black.
This is complemented by accessories such as Ice Cool tinting film, sports pedals, a kicking plate, door handle protectors and a door visor.
Customers can also opt for the Kuro GT package that adds a Tomei GT Wing and 16-inch Impul Racing alloy rims.
As mentioned, the update is mostly on the Almera's aesthetics while it retains most of the other features.
At the time of launch, the then-new Almera featured the now-recognisable exterior design that includes the signature V-motion front grille and boomerang-shaped LED headlamps that flow across the front end to a low profile floating roof as well as signature rear LED tail-lamps.
Compared to the first-generation model, the current Almera has a longer wheelbase at 2,620mm (+20mm). The overall dimensions have also been improved, with the sedan now 70mm longer, 45mm wider and 40mm lower.
In the cabin is a "gliding wing" design-inspired instrument panel that is furnished with a mix of materials and features, including a flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel.
At the centre is an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment display that's compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while a seven-inch semi-digital meter cluster greets the driver.
The trunk space is 482 litres but standard on all variants is the foldable 60:40 split back seats in case more cargo space is needed.
The driving aids include Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IFCW) and Intelligent Forward Emergency Braking (IFEB), which are standard across all three variants.
The top VLT variant gains Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Intelligent Around View Monitor 360∞ camera with Moving Object Detection.
All variants share the brand's then all-new 1.0-litre turbo engine that's paired with a next-generation Xtronic CVT with D-Step Logic System.
The powertrain delivers up to 152Nm of maximum torque and has a fuel efficiency of 18.4km/litre, which is roughly equivalent to an estimated 650km driving range on a 35-litre full tank.
The engine now comes with a Mirror Bore Coating Technology that is adapted from the iconic Nissan GT-R. This reduces friction between the piston ring and inner cylinder and results in increased durability, reduced wear and tear, and improved heat management.
Nissan's Intelligent Mobility and Safety Shield 360 advanced safety technologies are also present.
The Intelligent Forward Collision Warning and Intelligent Forward Emergency Braking are standard across all three variants while the VLT variant has the Blind Spot Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Intelligent Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection.
The standard safety features include Vehicle Dynamic Control, Traction Control System, Anti-lock Braking System, Brake Assist, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Hill Start Assist, and two Child Seat Retainer with Top Tether (ISOFIX).
The VLP and VLT variants are equipped with six SRS Airbags while the standard VL has two.
The exterior colours, before the latest update, were Radiant Red, Monarch Orange, Dark Metal Grey, Brilliant White, Diamond Black and Tungsten Silver, although the latter has seemingly been removed as an option.
Pricing for the Almera Kuro Edition starts at RM83,888, with a launching promotion at RM1,000 for the Kuro Package or RM1,500 for the limited edition Kuro GT Package.
For now, the starting price inclusive of the Kuro Edition is shared with that of the standard VL variant at RM83,888. Without the package, the VLP and VLT variants are priced from RM89,888 and RM95,888, respectively.
However, ETCM is having rebates of up to RM3,000 for the two variants.
All variants of the Almera Turbo are certified energy-efficient vehicles and come with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty with five free maintenance services (parts and labour included).
The Kuro package is valued at RM8,000 while the Kuro GT add-on package is an additional RM3,200. The latter is limited to 300 vehicle sets and is exclusively available as an add-on to the VLP and VLT Kuro package.
It comes with a three-year or 100,000km, whichever comes first, warranty. Terms and conditions apply.
