The Europe-sold version of the Nissan Micra has received a mid-generational refresh. The French-produced mini hatchback now ships with an updated selection of engines and an optional infinitely variable transmission (IVT).
The available engine palette used to be restricted to three options: a 1.0L naturally aspirated gasoline engine with 71 hp / 53 kW; a 0.9L turbo with 90 hp / 67 kW; and a 1.5L diesel with 90 hp / 67 kW. In the 2019 version, the 0.9L turbo engine goes away to be replaced with a more potent 1.0L GT engine with 100 hp (75 kW) and 160 Nm (118 lbft) of torque at its disposal.
The new engine can be purchased with either the old five-speed manual or the new Xtronic IVT transmission. The latter choice limits the maximum torque to 144 Nm (106 lbft), though.
The 2019 Nissan Micra is also available with a new hi-end engine, a 1.0L DIG-T unit rated at 117 hp (87 kW) and 180 Nm (133 kW). The manufacturer markets this version as a ‘souped-up’ trim of the Micra and therefore ships it exclusively with the six-speed manual box. The DIG-T version accelerates 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 9.9 seconds, while the GT one needs 10.9 seconds to accomplish the same.
Finally, the Micra family has been expanded to incorporate a new trim called the N-Sport. It comes with tinted windows, black details on the bumpers and sides, fog lights and new seats.
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