Japanese car maker Nissan has launched the new range of the all-new Nissan Micra in the UK, but the most talked about variant is the eagerly anticipated 1.0-litre 70bhp entry-level model. While it’s the last of three launch engines to go on sale, it will play a vital role in the Micra success story. However, it is not certain yet if the older generation Micra in India will receive any updates or this new engine option. This three-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine is linked to a five-speed manual transmission and is a highly efficient powertrain and Renault claims will provide a fuel economy of 22kmpl. This engine would do quite well in India, but as of now Renault is showing no interest to bring it to the Indian market.
The new Nissan Micra is a brilliant car and it’s a radical progression from the model it has replaced, and from the trio of highly successful superminis, which date back to the Micra’s debut in Europe in 1983. For many reasons the Micra has not had much of a success story in India, which is why the Japanese car maker did not bring in the new versions last year. In Europe, the all-new Micra is also a technology leader, with a number of features which are not only new to the Micra but new to the segment. These include Intelligent Lane Intervention, a safety system which gently corrects the Micra back on to the right path should it be required.