We didn't at all like the diesel installation in the Almera 2.2TD, but trying a Sport+ with the 1.8-litre petrol engine which made its debut a few months ago in the Primera meant that there were other things to consider, and that they could be considered in much quieter surroundings.Styling, for one thing. Nissan has taken a real chance with the side view of the new Almera. This is a car with a coupé window line, but a non-coupé roofline. Either you think the two elements are an intriguing contrast, or you think they're a mis-match. Of course, the upswept "surf tail" ought to have some aerodynamic benefits at speed.The new Almera is the first model to use Nissan's latest global MS platform, and this Sunderland-built car certainly feels robustly built. Interior design is one-up on the previous version, the trim materials are better-looking, and it's full of little details that take a while to be noticed.Right away, though, you can see that if somebody wants to steal the radio, with its control buttons built into the console itself, they'd have to nick the whole car. Nissan has taken a quite different approach here from other manufacturers with their slot-out radio fronts.There are 20 or more little boxes, holders, shelves, hooks, trays, nets and pockets scattered around the car, which is one in which you have to behave better than just chucking things on the floor. It's a matter of "a place for everything and everything in its place".Rear legroom, with the driver's seat the way I like it, was pretty tight, and I was surprised that, in the three-door model, when you tip a front seat forward to let somebody get into the rear, only the seat back moves - there's no directly connected slide-forward mechanism. On the other hand, when I sat there and tried to clamber out, it wasn't all that much of a problem.Sport+ versions are well-equipped at the price. They come with electronic brakeforce distribution, and a brake assist system which applies more pressure than human calf muscles would manage when you jab the pedal for an emergency stop. There are 16" alloy wheels, a 6-CD autochanger and a leather-rimmed steering wheel which lets you get a good chunky grip.All Almeras are fitted with an active head restraint system to guard against whiplash injuries. Nissan didn't invent it, but is the first manufacturer in the class to specify it, in conjunction with front and side airbags.Another system Nissan fits is a top-class anti-theft alarm. Ask any of the numerous motoring writers who have carelessly set one off. We don't do it twice!The petrol-engined version felt more composed on the road than the diesel, and there was none of this business, around town, of often having to drop down to third, to get rid of the vibrations.Whether the latest Almera has quite enough going for it, to improve on the sales of the previous model, is an open question. But in the middle of the year it's going to be available with one of the most remarkable satellite navigation systems on the world market.Nissan's Birdview screen shows a three-dimensional map, not the usual two-dimensional flat plan. You see your immediate position from about 400 yards behind, and about 300 yards above, with a view ahead to the horizon, and major landmarks on the way.It sounds like a stunning improvement on anything provided before, it's exclusive to Nissan, and it could be just the kind of thing the Almera needs.Second opinion: The title positively whinnies with irony, as this is in no sense a sports car. "Sport minus" would be more appropriate. It's pretty lifeless, which is a shame when you consider the splendid handling of a ten year-old Primera. Comfortable and well-built, though. I'm not a fan of the shape, but a couple I know thought it was the most attractive car they'd seen in a long time. David Finlay. Engine 1769cc, 4 cylinders Power 111bhp Fuel 37.7mpg Acceleration 0-62mph: 11.1 seconds Top speed 115mph Price £14,900 Details correct at publication date