Nissan Micra XV D: 1000km Long Term Review

It hasn’t been long since I got my hands on the Nissan Micra dCi but I have still managed to spend a fair amount of time behind the wheel to get to know the car better. Having driven it for a considerable distance in the city as well as on the highway, I have been increasingly impressed with the overall package. In terms of design, the arrow head shaped headlamps, the front grille that is broken by a v-shaped slat in chrome and the taillamps that have been lined up with LEDs give the Micra an aggressive stance and it now look a lot more bolder than its predecessor.  

In the heart of things, the 1.5-litre diesel mill that works force in the Micra is extremely drivable with barely any lag and great roll-ons. Its ability to pick up from speeds as low as 20km/h in the third gear with utmost ease is what makes it very convenient to drive even in the bumper-to-bumper traffic in Mumbai. I recently made a trip to Kolad and the availability of ample of torque lower down the rev range ensured that it made those quick overtaking maneuvers on the two-lane NH17 without breaking a sweat. Returning 16.7kmpl overall, most of which was clocked in the city; it has proved to be pretty efficient too. My only grouse is the absence of insulation in the engine bay makes it cabin rather noisy.

Despite being progressive, the brakes need a little more bite, especially for a car that can attain three-digit speeds in a jiffy. The steering wheel is aptly weighted and accurate but the rather soft nature of the suspension wasn’t quite confidence inspiring especially when I pushed it on the twisties. The clutch isn’t too tedious either but the gearbox although precise could have been a little smoother.  

The interiors have been washed in grey with the piano black centre-console that houses the music system and the climate control doing its part in making things a slightly interesting on the inside. A long list of features like button start, steering mounted controls, keyless entry and Bluetooth telephony make the overall driving experience that much more convenient. 

With a Just about two weeks and nearly a 1000km into its long term tenure, I am already starting to feel that the Micra is a highly underrated hatch and is a lot better car than given credit for.

Date Acquired: April 2014

Total km till date: 1077km

Fuel consumed: 64.49 litres

Efficiency: 16.7kmpl (As tested)

Cheers: Engine, Efficiency

Sneers: In cabin noise

Total Cost:  Nil