Nissan March

The next version of the March/Micra, the K12, was unveiled in late 2002. The car was radically redesigned: it featured a new, 70 mm longer wheelbase (developed with Renault) and an even more curvy exterior that was taller and slightly wider. Its most distinctive feature was a pair of prominent headlamps that extended to the wing-tops. Other additions included a sliding rear seat and the option of keyless ignition on higher specification models. [ [http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/main.jhtml?xml=/motoring/2002/12/20/emfnis21.xml Telegraph.co.uk: Cupid raids the car park] ] The range of engines included improved 1.2 (CR12DE) and 1.4 (CR14DE) petrol models, and a Renault-sourced 1.5 diesel unit (HR15DE).

The K12 was well received by the motor industry and set a new standard for the superminis that followed it. [ [http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/nissan-micra-2004925.html Yahoo! Cars: Nissan Micra (2003 to date)] ] [http://www.parkers.co.uk/cars/reviews/Review.aspx?model=584 Parker's: Nissan Micra Hatchback (03 on)] ]

In July 2004, Nissan announced that a Coral Blue K12 Micra had become NMUK's one millionth car for the UK market, and that its Washington plant had produced over 250,000 K12s since the model's launch, for sale in up to 45 markets. [ [http://www.nissanpress.co.uk/nissan/releases/arc_2004/36034nis.htm Nissan Press: Nissan produces millionth UK car] ]

In 2005, Nissan Europe released a performance model of the K12. Dubbed the 160 SR, it was released as a direct competitor to the MINI Cooper, Ford Fiesta Zetec-S and the Citroën C2 GT, with a 1.6 L HR16DE engine, giving 113 PS (83 kW/111 hp) and uprated sports suspension. In 2006, Nissan renamed the 160 SR to the Sport SR in line with name changes across the board for the K12. However, this rebranding was shortlived: the performance model reverted to the 160 SR name in late 2007. [http://www.nissan.co.uk/home/vehicles/passenger/K12/index.html?ln=/en_GB Nissan UK: Micra] ]

The launch of the 160 SR coincided with a revision of the K12. The radiator grilles were given a chrome strip through the centre and the original amber indicators were replaced with clear ones. The rear bumper was restyled and made more robust (apparently in response to French parking habits). The interior was also given a makeover, with more supportive seats, thicker glass and better soundproofing. [ [http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/autoexpressnews/57771/now_micra_gets_a_new_face.html Auto Express: Now Micra gets a new face] ]

There were originally six trim levels of the K12, but in 2006 they were simplified to just three: Initia, Spirita and Sport. In addition, the launch line-up of six engines was reduced to the most popular four. [ [http://www.testdriven.co.uk/news.cfm/nissan-micra-110ps-sport-sr TestDriven.co.uk: Nissan Micra 110PS Sport SR] ]

Autech, a Nissan-owned company, has unveiled alternative models called the Bolero and the Rafeet. The Bolero, like Autech's versions of the K11, has the usual retro front end (which with the standard March headlights makes the car resemble the Lancia Ypsilon); the Rafeet has a more modern approach, resembling a BMW MINI, with either a black or white leather interior, [ [http://www.autech.jp/SV/MARCHRAFEET/index.html Autech: March Rafeet] ] whereas the Bolero has partial wood panelling and exclusive seating. [ [http://www.autech.jp/SV/MARCHBOLERO/index.html Autech: March Bolero] ]

While Nissan Europe has the 160 SR, in Japan the 5-door only March is available with the 12 SR and 15 SR-A versions, the first one with a tuned 1.2 L CR12DE engine giving 110 PS (81 kW/108 hp). It is equipped with an exclusive HKS exhaust and has a set of 15x6 wheels on a 185/55R15 81V Bridgestone RE-01R tyres. From 2005 in Japan, 3-door models and the CR10DE were dropped from the range, the CR14DE was only used for 4WD models, and the HR15DE was introduced.Fact|date=January 2008

In 2003, Nissan UK, inspired by the Andros Trophy K11, unveiled the Micra-R, a one-off mid-engined K12. Shown at the Geneva Motor Show without running gear and engine, being only a display car, it was later given the go-ahead and Nissan commissioned Ray Mallock Ltd to insert a mid mounted BTCC-derived Primera QG20DE engine for show and press demonstration purposes. [ [http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/firstdrives/41087/nissan_micra_r.html Auto Express: Nissan Micra R] ] In 2005, Nissan UK decided to replace the Primera engine with a VQ35DE from a 350Z with a modified Altima SE-R gearbox for user-friendliness on the road. This model was baptized 350SR, although it was not offered for sale. It was taken on to "EVO" magazine's "fast fleet" for a period of time where it became a favourite of many of the writers. [ [http://www.evo.co.uk/carreviews/evolongtermtests/210169/nissan_micra_350sr.html EVO: Nissan Micra 350SR] ] Other modifications to this car include a vented rear arch and a set of Rays Engineering wheels. To date, Nissan has no plans to put this model into production.

Micra C+C

In 2005, the K12 chassis spawned the coupé convertible model called the C+C. It was designed at the new London-based Nissan Design Europe studio, developed at the Nissan Technical Centre Europe at Cranfield, Bedfordshire and built, as with its predecessor, at the Washington plant. The electric folding glass roof is made by Karmann coachworks and has a 2+2 seating layout. The car is powered by an 1.4 or 1.6 L engine. [ [http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/autoexpressnews/57634/new_micra_is_a_touch_of_glass.html Auto Express: New Micra is a touch of glass] ] It is also the first European-specification Micra to be sold in Japan.Fact|date=January 2008

There were originally four trim levels: Urbis, Sport, Essenza and Active Luxury. [http://www.testdriven.co.uk/news.cfm/2008-nissan-micra-range-revised TestDriven.co.uk: 2008 Nissan Micra range revised] ]

K12C (2007–present)

In late 2007, the Nissan March/Micra was facelifted for the final time before its successor is launched sometime in 2009. [http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/autoexpressnews/203198/nissan_micra.html Auto Express: Next Micra set to play rough?] ] It has had several cosmetic tweaks: every model now comes with the standard racing grille taken from the K12 160 SR; the front headlights have been tidied up (incorporating light blue-tinted sidelights) and the grilles housing the indicators are edged in chrome. In addition, the B-pillar trims are no longer colour-coded. Inside, there are new seat fabric designs, and the dashboard features parts taken from other Nissans. New equipment includes an audible speed warning, bluetooth connectivity with the vehicle and reversing sensors. [ [http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/autoexpressnews/210261/nissan_micra.html Auto Express: Fresh Micra on the way] ] All models (save for entry-level) are fitted with sport bumpers and spoilers on the sides and rear. [http://www.nissan.co.uk/home/vehicles/passenger/K12/grades-and-specs/index.html?ln=/en_GB Nissan UK: Micra grades and specifications] ]

The model grades have been brought into line with the rest of the Nissan UK range, namely Visia, Acenta, Tekna, 160 SR and Active Luxury.

K12C models in Europe:
*Visia: old K12 model with facelift
*Acenta/Acenta +: luxury models
*Tekna: sportive model
*160 SR: sportive/performance model
*Active Luxury: luxury/sportive model

The 1.2 litre engine for the entry-level Visia is a 65 PS unit, as opposed to the 80 PS version on other grades. In addition, the Visia does not have the option of a 1.4 litre engine. The 1.6 litre engine is reserved for the 160 SR and as an option on the Active Luxury grade.

Nissan re-introduced the Micra to Australia in 2007, [ [http://www.nissan.com.au/news_pdfs/20070302_Micra.pdf Nissan Micra to enter Australia's light car Market] (2007-03-02)- Retrieved 2007-27-11] being sold only as a 5-door hatchback, and coming from Japan and not the UK.

The Micra C+C convertible is available in Visia, Acenta, Tekna and Active Luxury grades. [ [http://www.nissan.co.uk/home/vehicles/passenger/K12F/index.html?ln=/en_GB Nissan UK: Micra C+C] ] However, the 1.6 litre engine is available for all models, save the Visia. [ [http://www.nissan.co.uk/home/vehicles/passenger/K12F/grades-and-specs/index.html?ln=/en_GB Nissan UK: Micra C+C grades and specifications] ]

March in motorsports

Nissan first entered the March in motorsports with the March Superturbo R. Introduced in 1987, this rare pre-facelift K10 weighed in at 740 kg (1630 lb) with half interior, roll cage and tool kit. It was built for the new sub-1600 cc Group A class, and shortly after in 1988 Nissan released the March Superturbo as a road car.

While the March was a favourite with the drivers in the Japanese Rally Championship, veteran Swedish rally driver Per Eklund finished the 1988 RAC Rally in 21st position and the 1989 Acropolis Rally Greece in 10th place.

During the K11's production life, there was a series of national rally championship trophies held all over Europe called the Micra Challenge. This was intended as a cheap introduction to rallying, as the cars all had identical 1.3 L race-prepared engines. The UK series ran between 1995 and 1999. This model is still used in club and national rallies. In France, the 1.3 L model was used as the basis for a circuit racing one-make cup for celebrity drivers, the Nissan Stars Cup. In Portugal, the Micra spawned a one-make trophy alongside the National Rally Championship for Beginners.

In the late 1990s, a K11 was adapted into a VQ30 mid-engined 4WD configuration to race in the Trophée Andros, the French ice racing series. Drivers who raced this car include Érik Comas, Philippe Gache, Stéphane Peterhansel and Emmanuel Collard.

Nissan sponsors a one-make series in Japan called the March Cup, which has been running since the introduction of the K10. Usually a JGTC support race, it is held in two separate five-round championships called West Japan Series and East Japan Series, and a ladies series running simultaneously. At the end of the season, the best performing cars from both sides meet up for the Champions Cup final at the end the season.

Reputation and popularity

The March/Micra is known for its reliability, excellent build quality, and user friendliness. The K12 model has received consistently good overall reviews, with the main criticisms being the lack of head room and luggage space in the rear. [ [http://www.topgear.com/drives/D0/A0/new/ Top Gear: Nissan Micra new car review] ] [ [http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/carreviews/roadtests/39658/nissan_micra.html Auto Express: Nissan Micra review] ] [ [http://www.whatcar.com/car-review/nissan-micra-hatchback/556/ What Car: Nissan Micra review] ]

There are numerous tuning parts available for the car. Engine transplants are not new for the March, as many owners with mechanical skills have installed the SR20DE and more commonly, the GA16DE into their K11s. Turbocharger kits are a popular choice for the K11 and K12s.

The insurance company Folksam rated it as a dangerous car in case of crash for the years 1988–1995. [ [http://www.folksam.se/english/reports Folksam: Report "How safe is your car?" (PDF file)] ] However, safety specification has improved with successive models. The Micra's Euro NCAP ratings are two stars for the K11 and four for the K12. [ [http://www.euroncap.com/tests/nissan_micra_2003/165.aspx Euro NC
] ]

The K12 Micra came top of its class in "What Car?" magazine's Security Supertest in 2003, passing both entry and driveaway tests and achieving a maximum score for its locking system and immobiliser. [ [http://www.compucars.co.uk/news/Nissan/338.html Compucars: Nissan Micra tops supermini security test] ]

In 2005, the UK motor insurance research expert [http://www.thatcham.org/home.jsp?ugid=2 Thatcham] introduced a standard for keyless entry, requiring the device to be inoperable at a distance of more than 10 cm from the vehicle. In an independent test, the Micra was found to be the most secure, while certain BMW and Mercedes models failed, being theoretically capable of allowing cars to be driven away while their owners were refuelling. [ [http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/autoexpressnews/58364/micras_top_of_the_fobs.html Auto Express: Micra's Top of the Fobs] ]

In "What Car?"'s Reliability Supertest in 2007, Nissan was ranked 6th out of 26 manufacturers overall, with the K11 Micra (1998–2002) being its most reliable model. [ [http://www.whatcar.com/news-special-report.aspx?NA=229285&EL=3223738 "What Car?": Reliability Supertest 2007] ]

Micra in the UK

The Micra K10 first went on sale the UK over the summer of 1983, and it was an instant sales success. In its best year, 1990, it was the eleventh most popular new car in the UK with just under 50,000 sales. It was a popular choice with driving instructors and undemanding motorists thanks to its ease of driving, solid build and durable mechanical components. As of 2007, 15 years after its demise, tens of thousands of Micra K10s are still on British roads, a survival rate which compares well with many other small cars of its generation, such as the Austin Metro, Fiat Uno, and Renault 5.

The second incarnation of the Micra was launched in the UK at the end of 1992, with production taking place in Britain at the Washington plant rather than in Japan. Like its predecessor, it was a very popular car thanks to its quality, ease of driving and fuel economy. However, it was available with a limited range of engines: 1.0 and 1.3 petrol units. A facelift over the summer of 2000 saw the 1.3 shelved and replaced with a 1.4 unit. This upgrade, after a previous makeover in 1998, enhanced the Micra's appeal and it was still fairly popular on the launch of its successor in December 2002.

Like the previous version of the Micra, the third generation model was made at the Sunderland plant. It had a wider range of engines, including Renault-sourced 1.2 petrol and 1.5 direct-injection diesel powerplants, and offered an improved driving experience. Its chassis would form the basis of the next Renault Clio, launched in 2005 but still built in France. This stylish, all-new Micra helped Nissan bolster its market share of the supermini sector, which had been declining in the final year or two of its predecessor's life. Although it has never featured in the SMMT's official top 10 best-selling cars in the UK, it has been among the best-selling 10 cars in Britain among private buyers for virtually all of its production life.

In 2003, the BBC's "Top Gear" programme featured a segment on cars that gave value for money, highlighting specification that could be purchased for £9,000. The Micra K12 was selected and tested by presenter Richard Hammond, who gave it a positive review. This was despite comparing its qualities to those of a Boeing 737, concluding that the Micra "had all the toys". [ [http://www.bbc.co.uk/topgear/show/episodes/series3episode8.shtml BBC "Top Gear": Series 3, Episode 8 (21 December 2003)] ] However, when Hammond tested the Micra C+C in 2006, he was less than enthusiastic. This was because his model was coloured pink and as a result, he spent most of the segment driving it with a paper bag over his head. [ [http://www.bbc.co.uk/topgear/show/episodes/series8episode1.shtml BBC "Top Gear": Series 8, Episode 1 (7 May 2006)] ]

The pink C+C was one of only five, made specifically for Nissan's sponsorship of the C+C TLC Tour in 2005–06, in support of the Breakthrough Breast Cancer charity. [ [http://www.breakthrough.org.uk/you_can_help/whats_new/nissan_micra.html Breakthrough: Nissan Micra goes topless in support of Breakthrough] ] Such was the public's response that Nissan subsequently announced the launch of the Micra C+C Pink, limited to 100 models. [ [http://www.testdriven.co.uk/news.cfm/nissan-micra-cc-pink TestDriven.co.uk: Nissan Micra C+C Pink] ] These quickly sold out and another production run was announced in August 2006, this time limited to 175 cars. [ [http://www.pocket-lint.co.uk/news/news.phtml/4189/5213/nissan-micra-cc-pink-edition.phtml Pocket-lint.co.uk: Nissan goes pretty with the Micra C+C Pink edition] ]

cale models

Fujimi makes 1/24 scale plastic model kits of a 3-door K11 and 5-door K12, in several different versions. Kyosho also makes a 5-door K12, as a 1/43 scale diecast in both left- and right-hand drive versions. Bandai makes 1/24 or 1/43 etc plastic model kits and diecast model kits Nissan Be-1, while Norev makes a 1:43-scale Micra C+C 1.6, complete with folding roof.

March / Micra replacement

The next generation Nissan March (W02A) will be unveiled in Feburary 2009. It will be based on a revamped B-platform with a new engine 1.2-1.3 litre (xh5) and also retaining the HR15DE. url =http://www.autoincar.com/nissan-march-modelchange-will-launch-in-february-2009/ AutoInCar Feb 2008] It will be built in Japan & UK, and Chennai, India in partnership with Nissan shareholder Renault. The NMUK plant in Washington will instead manufacture an entirely new model that will compete in the same market segment as the Micra.cite news | first= | last= | coauthors= | title=Car plant bags new Nissan model | date=2008-06-03 | publisher=BBC | url =http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/business/7432924.stm | work =BBC News Online | pages = | accessdate = 2008-06-03 | language = ]

ee also

*Nissan
*Nissan Motor Manufacturing (UK) Ltd

References

External links

* [http://www.nissan.co.uk/home/vehicles/passenger/K12/index.html?ln=/en_GB/ Nissan UK: Micra]
* [http://www.nissan.com.tw/car/march/index.asp?level=2&top=2 Nissan Taiwan: Super March] zh icon
* [http://www.nissanmicra.com.au/ Nissan Australia Micra Site]

Japanese language

* [http://www.nissan.co.jp/MARCH/ Official Site]
* [http://www.nissan.co.jp/MUSEUM/MARCH/ Nissan Museum]
* [http://www.marchcup.jp/ March Cup]
* [http://www.autech.jp/BASE_CAR/MARCH/index.html Autech March] - Nissan Subsidiary site
* [http://www.autech.jp/SV/MARCHBOLERO/ March Bolero]
* [http://www.autech.jp/SV/MARCHRAFEET/index.html March Rafeet]
* [http://www.12sr.jp/ March SR]
* [http://minkara.carview.co.jp/userid/139692/profile/ Double Charge Club. Nissan March Super Turbo and K10 March fan Site]
* [http://www.xs4all.nl/~mjs/March.html K10 and K11 history and modifications]