Review Nissan Micra N-Sport 2019
January 31, 2019
Review Nissan Micra N-Sport 2019 - Remember the Micra 160 SR? A gold star and extra nerd points if you do. Launched back in 2005, it was Nissan’s first and (until today) only attempt to push its supermini into the 'warm hatch' sphere in Europe.
To say it was unsuccessful is an understatement. Contemporary reviews suggest it was actually pretty competitive. But it seemed that car’s cutesy styling combined with the Micra’s driving school image did it no favours for enthusiasts on a budget.
But perhaps the latest generation is a better fit, with its more grown up, angular design and slightly more upmarket positioning. Nissan clearly reckons so, which is why it’s launched the N-Sport onto the market.
Far from just a cynical trim level, the firm is using it as the basis to introduce a new 1.0-litre engine, also available in other higher-end trims. All cars with the new engine get a bespoke chassis tune, lowered suspension and a new steering rack, while the N-Sport model gets subtle exterior styling tweaks and and natty Alcantara trim on the dash and seats.
Alongside this, model year upgrades include a newly designed infotainment system with additional connectivity, and a new smartphone app that allows some limited operation of vehicle features.
Nissan adds 117bhp 'warm hatch' model to Micra range as part of mid-life revisions. Does it transform the supermini?
Nissan Micra N-Sport DIG-T 117
Where Lisbon Price £19,005 On sale Now Engine 999cc, 3cyls Power 117bhp at 5250rpm Torque 132lb ft (148lb ft overboost) at 1750-4000rpm Gearbox six-speed manual Kerb weight N/A Top speed 121mph 0-62mph 9.9sec Fuel economy 56.5mpg CO2 114g/km Rivals Ford Fiesta ST-Line, Seat Ibiza FR