K12 Micra

NISSAN has returned the Micra to Australia exactly 10 years after the second-generation K11 disappeared due to uncompetitive pricing.

This time, the company listened to consumers and has introduced a single, third-generation K12 Micra model, but jam-packed with features.

The package includes a five-door hatchback body, four-speed automatic gearbox, ABS anti-lock brakes with electronic brake force distribution and brake assist, active front headrests, dual airbags, air-conditioning, remote central locking, four electric windows, powered mirrors, and CD audio with an MP3 player connector.

Motivating the 965kg Micra is Nissan’s all-aluminium CR14DE 1.4-litre twin-cam 16-valve four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing and a drive-by-wire electronic throttle that helps deliver 72kW of power at 5600rpm and 137Nm of torque at 3200rpm.

It is mated to an electronically controlled four-speed automatic gearbox.

Using the front-wheel drive Renault/Nissan Alliance B Platform that also underpins the Renault Clio III, Modus and Twingo II as well as Nissan’s not-for-Australia Note and the Tiida ‘small’ car, the Micra conforms to the light-car norm.

Suspension-wise it employs MacPherson struts, coil springs and an anti-roll bar up front and coil springs with a torsion beam axle at the rear.

An electrically assisted speed-sensitive rack and pinion steering system is responsible for the Micra’s second-to-Smart-only turning circle of 8.8 metres.