Nissan Micra has hit the headlines with a superior automatic version. The small car is now available for Rs 6 lakhs, ex-showroom, with CVT automatic.
Nissan Micra has been available all across the world since 1982. Micra goes by the name March in Europe and Canada. The first Micra was named the K10 and further revisions saw the K13 coming to India.
Micra had recently received a refresh with new grills and interiors. Here is a test drive report of the automatic version of the new car which will hit the markets with a price cut.
The automatic Micra offers more mileage than the manual: 19.5 kilometres to the litre. The car uses technology that only Honda used to employ in its cars. Now, the CVT is available in the Maruti Baleno as well.
The new grills offer a better appearance for the car and there are also changes to bumpers, headlamps and the fog lamp. The LED tail lamp is exclusive in this class.
Micra is a capable hatchback with enhanced space inside in terms of headroom and legroom, thanks to the boomerang-shaped roof. You find a lot of space inside and the car and the back seat can seat three comfortably.
The quality of plastics is good and the two-tone grey colour is one of the changes that the car has undergone. The black central console is new and there are two glove boxes, which are however small. Practicality is the hallmark of the car.
The wing mirrors can be folded using electric controls. Keyless entry is provided and the car sports a start-stop switch. All models have driver-side airbags and trip computer. Body coloured bumpers and air conditioning are standard.
In the CVT, the number of gears are practically unlimited, which translates to enhanced driving comfort and mileage.
The performance is at par with higher-priced cars. The three-cylinder, 1198 cc engine powers the car with 77 BHP and 104 nm torque.
The driver's seat is comfortable and the view from the driver's seat is good. The steering is light and the clutch and brakes are smooth. The suspension has been well tuned to suit Indian conditions.
Ex-showroom price: Rs 6.09 lakhs onwards
Test drive: Pinnacle Nissan - 9072600001