2013 Nissan Micra: four-cylinder out as production shifts to India

The change in Nissan Australia’s production source means all models in the updated 2013 Micra range will be powered by the 56kW/100Nm 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine (below) that was previously only offered in the base model Micra ST.

Originally, the mid-spec Nissan Micra ST-L and high-grade Micra Ti featured a larger 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 75kW and 136Nm – giving them around 35 per cent more power and torque than the entry-level model.

The loss of power and performance is offset slightly by a decrease in fuel consumption. Teamed with the standard five-speed automatic transmission, the 1.2-litre engine consumes 5.9 litres per 100km compared with 6.5L/100km for the 1.5-litre. The saving less significant with the four-speed automatic optioned in, with combined cycle consumption differing just one-tenth of a litre, measuring 6.5L/100km for the three-cylinder unit.

The engine downsize has not been accompanied by a price reduction, however, with Nissan Australia confirming Micra pricing will carryover unchanged into 2013.

The production shift sees automatic headlights with headlamp levellers now standard across the range, along with new seats and rear-seat armrests.

The mid-spec ST-L adds 15-inch alloy wheels, foglights, rear spoiler, driver’s armrest and a passenger-seat bag holder. The Ti also gets the rear spoiler.

Sales of the Nissan Micra fell 3.6 per cent last year to 9162 as its share of the sub-$25,000 city-car segment dipped from 7.3 per cent to 6.8 per cent.

2013 Nissan Micra manufacturer’s list prices: