The Nissan Micra is a supermini car available first produced in 1982 as a 1983 model year. It is a nearly identical model to the Nissan March, which was sold in the Japanese domestic market while the Micra was sold in Europe.
Nissan Micra Design and Introduction
As a replacement to the Nissan Cherry, the Nissan Micra was first available as a 1983 model year. It was Nissan's goal to introduce another supermini vehicle to serve the demand for ultra-efficient vehicles that were easy to drive and affordable. The Micra's construction was designed to be minimum in weight, and Nissan was able to pull off an impressive 1,389 pounds (620 kg) for this practical city car. Another feature that helped the Micra achieve maximum fuel efficiency was a particularly high gearing ratio. The engine was unique to the Micra, and most markets had the option of a 1.0L MA10S inline-4 with 49 horsepower or a 1.2L MA12S inline-4 engine with 54 horsepower. While the Japanese domestic market received a turbocharged March option, the European Micra did not. There were four different transmissions available, including an expected 4-speed manual. As bonus option in the supermini segment, 5-speed manual and 3-speed automatic transmission choices were also offered. Other more-advanced features were also available on top trim level models, allowing this supermini to reach above its class in terms of style and sophistication.
1992 Updates to the Nissan Micra
Nissan released the second-generation Nissan Micra and March in 1992. It began to also be exported to other markets around Asia. Most of the styling had remained similar, with marginally softer edges rounded out. New all-aluminum engine options were brought to this model Nissan Micra, now offering a 1.0L CG10DE engine with 54 horsepower and 1.3L CG13DE engine with a much improved 74 horsepower. A 1.5L TUD4 diesel engine was also available. Transmission choices now included a 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic, and a continuously variable transmission option. While Nissan attempted to increase the safety of the Micra by including driver's airbags, pre-tensioning seat belts, and side-impact door beams, the Micra only received a modest two star safety rating from the Euro NCAP. The challenge in creating a safe supermini was evident. The Micra and March began to receive many awards, showing the European and Asian demand for vehicles in this class. Fuel efficiency and economical vehicles were doing well, especially when offered with higher-trim level options for increased comfort and style.
Third Generation Micra Update
The next generation of the Nissan Micra came in 2002, which included a longer wheelbase and larger exterior dimensions. The styling received a major update, now ushering in a more modern look to keep up with competitors. This supermini wasn't going to get left behind. Many inline-4 engine choices were offered, including everything from a 1.0L to 1.6L. A 1.5L diesel inline-4 sourced from Renault was available in select markets. A 5-speed manual or 4-speed conventional automatic transmission were the two choices, leaving behind the previous CVT. Another push ahead for the Nissan Micra was the introduction of a four-wheel drive variant. Nissan also introduced a C+C coupe convertible in addition to other high-performance variants.
Latest Nissan Micro Updates
In 2010, the fourth generation was released across the globe to more than 160 countries. To say that this peppy little vehicle was doing well was no exaggeration. The exterior shape remained stylish, sticking with the 5-door hatchback body style. Inline-3 engines were now used, with supercharged options, ranging from 1.0L to 1.2L. The previous 1.5L and 1.6L inline-4 were still available. In 2016, the latest generation Nissan Micra was released, built on the Nissan V platform. The more aggressive styling is punctuated with sharp lines. Engine choices were now limited to inline-3 gasoline variants ranging from 898 cc to 999 cc with two turbocharged options, and a 1.5L turbo diesel inline-4.