But for the latest version of its Indian-built Micra, Nissan has bucked that trend. The result is the 1.2 litre Direct Injection Gasoline-Supercharger, or DIG-S for short.
A three-cylinder unit, it needs a supercharger because it runs on the Miller Cycle. Unlike a normal four stroke engine, the intake valves on a Miller engine are left open for the initial part of the compression phase, reducing internal power losses and allowing it to run at a higher compression ratio.
The new engine produces 96 bhp (72 kW / 98 PS) and 142 Nm (104 lb/ft) of torque, but its real party piece is efficiency. Combined with a stop / start system and regenerative braking, the Micra Visia with manual transmission will manage 68.9 mpg (4.1 l/100km), while emitting just 95 g/km of CO2.
Even the slightly heavier Acenta version achieves 99 g/km, and so it too will be exempt from both UK road tax and the London Congestion Charge. No acceleration figures have been released, but the DIG-S-equipped Micra can reach a more than adequate top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h).
There isn’t a diesel available for Nissan’s supermini and, judging by those figures, it doesn’t really need one.
Reinforcing that view, Pierre Loing, Vice President Product Strategy and Planning, Nissan International SA, said: “Ultra low emissions with no compromise when it comes to drivability means the Micra DIG-S sets new standards for the current generation of city cars. No other petrol-powered compact hatchback can beat its overall efficiency... and it is more than a match for an equivalent diesel.”
After its debut at the Geneva International Motor Show, sales of the Micra DIG-S are set to begin in the summer. Prices will be confirmed nearer the time.
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