Faults:

Absolutely NOTHING. Apart from the routine servicing, my Almera has been going and going, just like the Duracell bunny! After nearly 8 years of ownership the seats are starting to show some wear, but other-wise, not even a squeak.

General Comments:

Nearly eight years on, I still enjoy driving this car just as much as the first day.

Performance from the 1.4 ltr engine is strong and economy is very decent. The car pulls really strongly in second gear and the engine thrives on the high rev range (above 3,500 rpm), even though it gets harsh at these levels.

While it's road holding doesn't compare with the best in class, it's certainly very safe and predictable. The downside is traction in the wet. The engine delivers it's power too aggressively in 1st and 2nd gears, and the front wheels spin all too easily.

As regards to comfort, there is decent space for 4 and the ergonomics are simply excellent. Visibility towards the rear is particularly good, when compared to it's rivals.

There is one thing that has bugged me from day one though: if the car if fully laden with a compliment of passengers and luggage, the ride quality deteriorates incredibly.