NISSAN has launched a high-performance diesel version of the Almera developing 134bhp and 224lb-ft of torque. The Almera 2.2 dCi SXE sits alongside the existing 109bhp 2.2 Di version and covers the 0-62mph sprint in 9.2 seconds. It is priced at £14,500 on-the-road for three-door models and £15,250 for the five-door.

The car uses a six-speed gearbox and records 47.9mpg on the combined cycle with carbon dioxide emissions of 161g/km.

The SXE model is also available with the 1.8-litre petrol engine, priced from £13,250. Standard equipment includes four airbags, ABS, a trip computer, electric windows, climate control, colour monitor with DVD satellite navigation, 16-inch alloy wheels, a roof spoiler and electronic stability programme. Nissan has also upgraded equipment in the Almera SVE to include satellite navigation, with a price increase of £900.

Meanwhile Nissan dealers have begun taking orders for the new 350Z coupe, on sale in October. The standard 350Z is priced at £24,000 on-the-road, while the GT-pack model is £26,500. The car is equipped with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 276bhp, and accelerates from 0-62mph in less than six seconds. Nissan UK has revealed that only 450 examples are likely to be available to UK buyers this year.