Nissan Micra XV DCi - Performance Review

The Micra DCi is powered by a 1.5-litre diesel engine, codenamed K9K. Although this inline-four engine features commonrail direct injection, this is a pretty old engine that breathes via two valves per cylinder, operated by a single overhead camshaft. Oh yes, this engine already does duty on the Mahindra Logan. The power figure of just 64PS feels a little less for this capacity but 160Nm of peak torque available at just 2000rpm makes up for it. The engine is mated to a five-speed gearbox.

On the road, the Micra diesel feels peppy enough, although the engine is very noisy. However, it is refined and revs nicely. Turbo lag is almost eliminated and the Micra not only accelerates beautifully from low revs but also keeps pulling right till the redline. The torque spread is even across the rev range while the tall gearing gives it better traffic sense, apart from making it frugal. The engine has proven its fuel efficiency in the Logan and Nissan claims an ARAI figure of 23.08kmpl. I didn’t like the gearshift though, which is slick but has longer throws.

The Micra takes it easy in the handling department. It’s more about comfort than focused driving. To start with, the steering is very light to make it easy to steer in the hustle-bustle of the city as well as parking lots. Thankfully, it still feels connected and there is no vagueness.