Given the price premium that slotting a diesel engine into any variety of passenger vehicle commands, it’s little wonder that the market for diesel-driven superminis is miniscule. In this price-conscious segment of the market such a premium over equivalent petrol models could make or break a buying decision. So, at a shade under R150 000, does Nissan’s cheapest diesel deliver the goods?
Design and packaging:
It’s fair to say that the current car’s bulbous styling is not as challenging, or potentially divisive, as that of the previous car, but it’s not completely without its charms. Likewise, the cabin is also a more sober affair than before, but it is well screwed together and the controls are logically laid out and well sited for easy use. Despite all of the hard, dark plastic adorning many of the cabin surfaces, the interior still feels quite airy thanks to generous glazing that also aids with all-round visibility. While there is appreciably more legroom in this model than in its predecessor it falls short of such rival offerings as the Ford Figo and, at 200 dm3, the boot is rather small. Comfortable front seats with height adjustment and a steering column that adjusts for rake helped most of our testers find a comfortable driving position.
Powertrain and performance:
In most circles the 47 kW developed by the Micra’s 1,5-litre turbodiesel unit would be considered rather meagre, but it’s the 160 N.m on tap from 2 000 r/min that proves to be its saving grace. There’s virtually nothing of the lag or erratic drive delivery than can sometimes trouble small-displacement turbodiesels present here. Power delivery is smooth, progressive and linear. Refinement at highway speeds is also reasonable for an engine of its ilk, but it does sound rather clattery at low speeds or when cold. Having piloted the car over a 300 km stretch that included town-, highway- and country road driving, the Micra’s powerplant, although hardly a fireball off the mark, never felt out of its depth. A glance at the onboard computer showed an average fuel consumption figure of 5,8 L/100 km after this excursion, which means you’ll get around 700 km from a tank of diesel. Factor in a light, if rubbery, gearshift and an easily modulated clutch and the Micra proves itself to be a pleasant companion in pretty much all driving scenarios.
Dynamics:
Accept the fact that the Micra’s modest outputs, narrow tyres and high centre of gravity are not conducive to spirited driving, and you’ll enjoy what the little Nissan has to offer. The steering is light enough for fingertip-twirling when slotting the car into tight parking spaces (hardly a chore, given the Micra’s fairly dinky dimensions) but doesn’t feel too floaty or disconnected when driving at speed. The ride is supple and largely untroubled by road corrugations, but there is a discernable amount of body lean when negotiating a tight bend at speed. Although this car has a dry weight of just 993 kg, it doesn’t feel flimsy or insubstantial; something that can diminish driver confidence when piloting a compact car.
Specification:
This model is only available in Acenta trim, but the specification is generally good. Among the comfort and convenience features are air-conditioning, power steering, ABS, electric windows and mirrors, a CD/MP3/radio sound system, remote central locking with immobiliser and a comprehensive on-board computer showing outside temperature/range/instant fuel consumption/driving time. The safety equipment includes font/side airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, brakes with ABS/EBD and brake assist, as well as outer-rear Isofix child seat anchorages. The Micra doesn’t come with a service plan as standard, but you can specify an optional item. The entry-level plan, spanning 5 years/60 000 km will set you back around R10 452 and service intervals are every year or 15 000 km. Plans spanning 75, 90 and 105 000 km are also available.
Overall:
There’s something refreshingly honest and no-nonsense about the diesel Micra that makes it appealing to those seeking a frugal, all-purpose compact car that won’t break the bank. The packaging, although compromised in terms of overall interior space, is neat; the drivetrain manages to be fairly frugal without being plodding in its performance and the specification, while not comprehensive, is decent enough. It may not possess the Ford Figo’s comparable dynamic verve, but the Micra is a comfy and viable alternative that’s well worth a look.
Specifications
Model: Nissan Micra 1,5 dCi Acenta
Engine: 1,5-litre, four-cylinder, turbodiesel
Power: 47 kW at 4 000 r/min
Torque: 160 N.m at 2 000 r/min
0-100 km/h: 10,2 seconds
Fuel consumption: 5,64 L/100 km
CO2: 125 g/km
Top speed: 150 km/h
Price: R146 900
Service plan: optional
Warranty: 3 years/100 000 km