The Nissan Micra is the first hatchback to be launched in India by the Japanese carmaker, but the Micra Active is the facelifted version of the car. Nissan and Renault are in partnership and the Nissan Micra and the Renault Pulse share the exact same platform. The Nissan Micra was first launched in 2011 and in 2013 was refreshed. The Micra competes against other mid-level hatches such as the Swift, i10, Fiat Punto, Toyota EtiosLiva and Tata Indica D90. It comes with a diesel engine and a petrol engine, which gets an optional automatic transmission.
Design & Styling
The new MicraActive had gone under the knife again and this time it has gotten rid of a few elemets. While it still has the same shape it now gets rid of the chrome fitted front grille and fog lights. The Micra follows a very unconventional hatch design and is tall and has got lots of curves. The front headlights stick up from the hood and the rear end slopes downwards and its overall length is well under 4 metres. It has also got decent size tyres that now come with alloys. It is a stylish and unique overall design that is also very practical.
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Interiors
The interiors of the Micra are also done up in a very unique way. The instrument cluster is nice and now there are better materials on the front console, which still has the button configuration designed in a circle. There is lots of room for all passengers with plenty of headroom and legroom.
Engine & Transmission
The Micra comes with a 1.2 litre petrol engine and a 1.5 litre diesel engine. The diesel engine is very well refined and has got good power figures of 84bhp and 160Nm of torque. It is also mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, while the petrol engine also now comes with an automatic transmission.
Performance and Handling
The diesel Micra is a great all round performer. The ride quality is very good and the car can be controlled very easily around tight bends and when in traffic filled streets. The power from the engine is adequate for the city as well as the highway and the suspension setup is simply fantastic. The steering response is spot on and it follows the driver’s commands and gives good feedback as well. There is however a slight power lag but not too much. The automatic transmission in the petrol is not very good and there is a lack of power, while gear changes take too long.
Fuel Efficiency
The Micra is a very fuel efficient car and the diesel provides a fuel economy of 18kmpl, while the petrol unit gives around 13kmpl.
Features
The new MicraActive comes with power steering, power windows and air conditioning, but there is now also a well equipped audio system with steering mounted controls.
Safety
Safety features include central locking, keyless entry, front airbags, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist.
Quality & Reliability
The Micra Active is made up of good quality materials. The panels on the doors and dashboard are nice and the fit and finishing touches are also very good. It is also a very reliable car and has a strong frame that can handle rough conditions. The panels on the exterior have also been improved and the engine is extremely well refined. Running costs are low and there are now plenty of service centres opening around the country.
Value for Money
The Micra has got decent value for its cost price. The price has gone up because of the added features but it is still reasonably priced. More importantly it is a very well engineered car so you do get your money’s worth.
Verdict
The Micra Active is a practical solution for the city and yet it also serves well on the highway. It is very fuel efficient and comfortable inside, however it is not the most fun to drive and you may feel that it is underpowered, especially with the auto transmission. Consider your options and your budget before deciding to purchase one.
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