Although Nissan has kept most of the information under wraps, some info regarding the Almera has already made its way out to the open. Here’s what we know so far.

A total of three model grades will be offered: the EL, VE, and VL N-Sport. However, there will be total of four variants because the EL and VE will come with a 5-speed manual, while the VE and N-Sport will come with the CVT.

There will six colors on offer: Cayenne Red (VE, VL N-Sport), Premium Corona Orange (VE CVT), Galaxy Black (VE CVT, VL N-Sport), Gun Metallic (EL, VE, VL N-Sport), Brilliant Silver (EL, VE), and Pearl White (VE, VL N-Sport).

Regardless of variant, will all get a turbocharged 1.0-liter 3-cylinder. The engine, codenamed HRA0 features mirror bore coating—a technology also found in the GT-R. This boosts the efficiency of the engine while keeping its weight low. All in all, it’s good for 100 horsepower and 152 Nm of torque (160 Nm for the manual). The Philippine-spec units will not have cruise control, but the CVT models will have changeable driving modes.

In terms of exterior features, the top-of-the-line VL N-Sport will receive LED headlights and taillights. It’s also the only variant to have front fog lights, and they use LEDs, of course. Other exterior highlights include a silver-painted front air dam, silver side view mirrors, and rear spoiler. It also gets two-tone machine-cut alloy wheels. If this is all familiar, it’s very close to the Thai market Sportech variant.

Inside, the VE and VL N-Sport will have a 7-inch driver information display and an 8-inch Nissan Connect touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Like its exterior, the VL N-Sport will have a sportier-looking cabin with a predominantly black interior with dark gray stitching. It’ll have dark metallic trim on the side air vents and a piano black decoration on the gear knob and steering wheel spokes too. It’s also the only variant to get a leather steering wheel. In comparison, the VE has striking white contrast padding on the dashboard and seats.

As for safety, Nissan is continuing to offer class-leading safety with dual SRS airbags, ABS with EBD, and vehicle stability control all as standard equipment. Though not clear at this point, it seems the 360-degree parking camera will be offered on both the VE and VL N-Sport.

Now comes the most awaited part: the price. Well, so far that’s one thing Nissan Philippines is keeping close to their chest. However, there are reports floating around that the base EL will already start at around the P 800,000 mark. If that’s true, then expect the VE to hover around the P 900,000 mark, and the VL N-Sport to across the P 1-million mark. It makes it hella expensive compared to its predecessor. But then again, Nissan’s known to spring a surprise in terms of price (see the refreshed Navara and Terra).

Whatever the case, the wait is almost over. Mark your calendars, and click here to join the virtual launch.