Nissan unveils the Nismo March Concept at the 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon, currently taking place in the Japanese capital. This spiced-up version of the popular minicar (a.k.a. Micra in several markets) is the third compact model to get administered the Nismo treatment after the Juke and the LEAF.

Nissan did not reveal much about the model in terms of mechanical modifications, just confirming the addition of not-better-specified ‘Nismo exclusive parts’ as well as high-performance suspension and large-diameter lightweight wheels. However, we can notice a newly designed front grille, different wing mirrors and the presence of several aerodynamic parts, most notably the rear spoiler. Besides, the car comes with the usual pearl white body/red inserts combination that is becoming Nismo’s signature color scheme.

As for now this model is just a concept, but the response of the public might eventually lead to a limited edition production version of the model. To find out more about the Nissan March/Micra Nismo Concept, check out the official press release after the jump.

Continue reading: Nissan March/Micra Nismo Concept: video and pictures released

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Renault just presented the Pulse, their re-badeged rendition of the Nissan Micra that will be marketed in India only. The Pulse will be equipped with the well-known and reliable 1.5 dCi diesel engine, and will be assembled at the Renault plant in Chennai, India, which can produce up to 400.000 units per year. The whole project required a 990 million dollars investment.

The Pulse, alongside Fluence and Koleos models, will make up the foundation of Renault’s range for the Asian country, and will be followed by the upcoming Durbin and by a new saloon car in 2012. More information about the Pulse will be released during the 11th Auto Expo in New Delhi, taking place this coming January.

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We just had the chance to test-drive the new Nissan Micra DIG-S in Germany, a car whose main objective is to be as green and affordable as possible. DIG-S stands for Direct Injection Gasoline Supercharged, which in this case is it’s a three-cylinder, 1.2-litre petrol engine, 98 hp, with CO2 emissions of 99 g/km. And thanks to these CO2 levels, this Micra was awarded a Pure Drive badge - which can be obtained only when a vehicle can prove to be eco-friendly by featuring emissions lower than 130 g/km (to be reduced to 120 g/km in 2013/14).

Talking about the interiors, the overhall quality is very good: comfortable seats, quality plastics, pleasant colors’ combination. Visibility is also extremely good and the panoramic sunroof helps a lot in reduced-light situations. Other features include an audio system with USB and AUX plug as well as an outstanding navigation system with an easy-to-use interface and an handy manual switch that enables the zoom.

Continue reading: Nissan Micra DIG-S road test: the results

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