Micra for everyone

Nissan has great expectations for its Micra light car, referring to it as the brand's core model in Australia.

Company managing director Dan Thompson told journalists at this week's launch of the LEAF EV (see separate story) that the new Micra will increase Nissan's presence in the light car segment with a wider lineup on offer, and more appeal to buyers other than women, when it arrives Down Under in December.

Currently female buyers account for around 70 per cent of sales for the Micra. Thompson admitted Nissan Australia had "targeted young females" with the K12 version but "we will be more neutral in our marketing for the new Micra."

The Micra has been a strong seller for Nissan Australia, despite being offered only with auto and one engine option. The new lineup will be available with a five-speed manual or automatic transmission, and a 1.5-litre four-cylinder powerplant or new 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine, rated at a city-suited 58kW/108Nm.

A more powerful, direct injection supercharged three-cylinder unit is also under consideration for the local range but it will not be released until 2011. The supercharged engine has 72kW power and 142Nm torque, and Nissan says emissions will be below 100g/km.

The new Micra will be also available with "customisation options", according to Thompson. A CC model (coupe-convertible), limited editions and a version like the hot SR which is offered in the UK may make it to local showrooms, he said.

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