You already know that the new-generation Nissan Almera is officially out in Thailand, and it’s significantly better-looking than the model it’s replacing. Little wonder that the feedback this subcompact sedan has been getting on social media has been overwhelmingly positive. In a nutshell, people can’t wait to get their hands on this car.
Unfortunately, Filipino customers will have to wait months to buy and drive the all-new Almera. According to a source who is familiar with Nissan Philippines’ product plans, the desirable car is reaching our territory in 2020, but it likely won’t arrive until the third quarter of the year. Our informant also says that the Almera engine for our market will be the same 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbo gasoline motor (99hp and 152Nm) that is now doing duty in Thailand, where it is exclusively paired with a continuously variable transmission.
Our source adds that two other new models are sure to join Nissan Philippines’ product lineup next year: the 370Z sports car and the Leaf electric hatchback. We have to manage our expectations, however, when it comes to the Leaf. The local Nissan distributor has been rumored to want to launch this car since last year, but we have yet to see its shadow.
While we find the thought of seeing Nissan coupes and EVs cruising up and down our roads, it’s the much-awaited Almera that should help the Japanese automaker further cement its newly acquired status as the third-best car brand in the Philippines in terms of sales (next only to Toyota and Mitsubishi). Let’s see how the competition reacts.
Comments