Nissan Micra: Your Guide to Gearbox Options

When considering a compact hatchback for your daily commute or weekend adventures, the Nissan Micra often emerges as a strong contender. Beyond its stylish exterior and practical dimensions, a crucial aspect for any driver is the type of gearbox it offers. Whether you prefer the engagement of a manual or the convenience of an automatic, understanding the Micra's transmission options is key to making an informed decision. This comprehensive guide will delve into the various gearboxes available with the Nissan Micra, with a particular focus on its automatic offering, often a point of curiosity for potential buyers.

The Nissan Micra has historically been available with a sensible choice of petrol and diesel engines, designed to cater to a range of driving preferences and budgets. While the current market availability may focus on a 92hp petrol engine, it's worth exploring the full spectrum of powertrains that have graced this popular supermini, as many excellent used examples are still readily available. Each engine configuration is paired with specific gearbox options, influencing everything from acceleration to fuel efficiency and the overall driving experience.

Petrol Powerhouses and Their Transmissions

The Micra's petrol engine line-up primarily features 1.0-litre three-cylinder units, some naturally aspirated and others benefiting from turbocharging. These engines are designed for efficiency and provide adequate performance for a car of the Micra's size.

The Entry-Level 1.0-litre (71hp)

Kicking off the petrol range is the non-turbocharged 1.0-litre engine, producing 71 horsepower and 95Nm of torque. This unit is primarily suited for urban driving, where its modest power output is less of a hindrance. While a 0-62mph time of 16.4 seconds and a top speed of 98mph might sound uninspiring on paper, this little engine possesses a surprising amount of character. For drivers who mainly undertake short, city-based journeys, the cost savings over its turbocharged alternatives make it an attractive proposition. This engine is typically paired with a five-speed manual gearbox, which is well-suited to its urban focus, requiring frequent but smooth shifts to maintain momentum, particularly on more open roads or motorway sliproads where the slower acceleration becomes more noticeable.

The Turbocharged 1.0-litre (100hp)

Stepping up to the turbocharged offerings, the 100hp version of the 1.0-litre engine provides a significant boost in performance and versatility. With 160Nm of torque, it handles most driving situations with ease, offering a torquey mid-range power delivery that makes for a more relaxed experience. It completes the 0-62mph sprint in a more respectable 10.9 seconds and can reach a top speed of 114mph. This engine is generally refined, avoiding the loud, characteristic thrum often found in triple-cylinder engines from rivals like Peugeot or Citroen, though a noticeable turbo whistle can sometimes filter into the cabin. Crucially, this 100hp unit is the one that opens up the possibility of an automatic gearbox in the Micra.

The Potent 1.0-litre (117hp)

For those desiring more vigour, the 117hp version of the 1.0-litre turbo engine is the most powerful in the range. It boasts 180Nm of torque, with an additional 20Nm available via an overboost function for brief periods of maximum acceleration. This translates to a quicker 0-62mph time of 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 121mph. This particular engine is exclusively paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, offering an extra ratio compared to the 100hp's standard five-speed manual, which allows for better refinement at higher speeds and more precise control over the power delivery.

The Surprising Automatic: Nissan Micra's CVT

One of the most frequently asked questions about the Nissan Micra revolves around its automatic gearbox availability. And the answer is a resounding yes! If you're specifically looking for a Micra with an automatic transmission, it is available exclusively with the 100hp petrol engine. This automatic option is a Continuously Variable Transmission, or CVT. Traditionally, CVTs have garnered a mixed reputation among drivers, often characterised by an inconsistent response, a 'rubber band' effect, and a tendency to make the engine over-rev, leading to a rather unrefined driving experience. However, the Micra's CVT stands out as a surprising exception to this general rule.

In the Nissan Micra, the CVT works remarkably well, defying many of the common criticisms levelled against this type of gearbox. While it does impact the 0-62mph time, extending it to 13.0 seconds compared to the manual's 10.9 seconds, this slight trade-off in outright acceleration is often overshadowed by its smooth and responsive nature. What makes it particularly effective in the Micra is that the engine's power band is situated low enough in the rev range. This means the gearbox doesn't need to send the engine's revolutions soaring to get the car moving, which is a common complaint with less well-calibrated CVTs. Around town, where the majority of Micras will spend their time, this automatic transmission is genuinely very pleasant to use. This is a commendation rarely bestowed upon CVTs by automotive journalists and drivers alike, highlighting Nissan's successful calibration.

However, it's not entirely without its quirks. Over a certain throttle input, the gearbox transitions into what Nissan calls 'D-Mode'. In this mode, it cleverly holds ratios, mimicking the behaviour of a more traditional automatic transmission. This feature enhances drivability when you're pressing on, providing a more direct and engaging feel. The only minor criticism here is the absence of steering wheel paddles or a manual position on the central shifter, which means drivers cannot manually select their own ratios. There's also an 'L' (for 'low') mode, designed to provide enhanced engine braking down steep hills. While useful in theory, this mode engages a ratio that is often too low to be practical for anything but the most extreme declines. Despite these minor points, the Micra's CVT is truly a very good example of its breed. In fact, for many drivers, its smooth and unobtrusive operation makes it a more appealing choice than the slightly sloppy five-speed manual gearbox that is otherwise available with the 100hp engine.

The Diesel Option: Refined Manual Power

For those who prefer the torque and fuel efficiency of a diesel engine, the Nissan Micra did offer a refined 1.5-litre dCi unit, producing 90hp and a generous 220Nm of pulling power. While it remains a niche player in the UK market due to higher finance costs, its impressive CO2 rating of 107g/km and fuel economy figures exceeding 50mpg still hold appeal for some. On paper, its 11.9-second 0-62mph time is average for its class, but the substantial torque means you'll find yourself changing gear less frequently. This makes it a more relaxed choice, particularly for those who regularly venture onto motorways. It's important to note that the diesel engine was exclusively paired with a sweet-shifting, unobtrusive five-speed manual transmission, meaning there was no automatic option for diesel Micra models.

Driving Dynamics: Beyond the Gearbox

While the gearbox plays a significant role in the driving experience, the overall handling and ride comfort of the Nissan Micra also contribute to its appeal. The latest generation Micra is built on a heavily updated engineering platform, inheriting improvements aimed at enhancing both ride quality and handling prowess. The result is a small hatchback that is genuinely enjoyable to drive, whether navigating the tight streets of a city or tackling open country roads.

Compared to its predecessor, which prioritised cost-cutting over dynamic performance, the current Micra feels agile and exhibits tidy body control when presented with a series of bends. The steering system contributes positively to this; it's responsive and quick to react to driver inputs, making the car feel nimble. While it may not quite reach the class-leading dynamic prowess of rivals like the Ford Fiesta or SEAT Ibiza, the Micra no longer feels out of its depth when pushed. It offers a well-judged balance between comfort and engagement, making it a competent and enjoyable car for everyday driving.

N-Sport: A Touch More Agility

For drivers seeking a slightly sportier edge, the Micra N-Sport model, equipped with the most powerful 1.0-litre 117hp engine, offers enhanced handling characteristics. This variant features sport suspension, which is lowered by 10mm, and a quicker, more responsive steering rack. These modifications don't fundamentally transform the Micra's handling, but they certainly add an incremental level of fun without compromising the ride comfort too severely. It represents a well-judged compromise towards improving handling ability, maintaining plenty of suspension travel to remain comfortable over most surfaces. However, it does lack the final polish of a Ford Fiesta, feeling firm and controlled but occasionally thumping uncomfortably over larger bumps. Similarly, while the N-Sport's steering is sharper than a regular Micra, it still lacks the precise weighting and involving feedback found in some of its competitors.

Comparative Overview of Micra Powertrains

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does the Nissan Micra come with an automatic gearbox?

Yes, the Nissan Micra is available with an automatic gearbox. Specifically, it offers a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) as an option.

Which engines are available with an automatic gearbox in the Micra?

The automatic CVT gearbox is exclusively available with the 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces 100 horsepower.

What type of automatic gearbox does the Micra have, and how does it perform?

The Micra features a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Unlike many CVTs, the Micra's version is surprisingly smooth and responsive. It avoids the common 'over-revving' issue often associated with CVTs because the engine's power band is effectively matched to the gearbox. It's particularly pleasant for urban driving, although it does result in a slightly slower 0-62mph time (13.0 seconds) compared to the manual version of the same engine.

Are there any criticisms of the Micra's automatic gearbox?

While generally praised, the Micra's CVT does have a 'D-Mode' that holds ratios under certain throttle inputs, mimicking a traditional automatic, but it lacks manual control via paddles or a shifter position. There's also an 'L' (low) mode for engine braking, which is often too low a ratio for practical use on most declines. Despite these minor points, it's considered a very good example of a CVT.

Are there any diesel automatic Micra models available?

No, the 1.5-litre dCi diesel engine in the Nissan Micra was exclusively paired with a five-speed manual transmission. There was no automatic option for diesel variants.

How does the Micra's handling compare to rivals?

The Micra offers a comfortable ride and decent steering feel, making it enjoyable to drive in both urban and open road conditions. While it may not surpass class leaders like the Ford Fiesta or SEAT Ibiza in outright dynamic prowess, it's significantly improved over its predecessor, offering agile feel and tidy body control. The N-Sport model, with its lowered sport suspension and quicker steering, offers an incrementally more engaging experience without sacrificing too much comfort.

Conclusion

The Nissan Micra presents a compelling package for those in the market for a compact car, and its gearbox options are a significant part of that appeal. While manual transmissions, including a slick six-speed for the most powerful petrol variant and a sweet-shifting five-speed for the diesel, offer engaging control, it's the automatic CVT that truly stands out. Nissan has managed to engineer a Continuously Variable Transmission that defies typical expectations, delivering a smooth, responsive, and genuinely pleasant driving experience, especially in city environments. This makes the Micra a highly versatile choice, catering to drivers who prefer the ease of an automatic without compromising on refinement. Whether you prioritise fuel efficiency, sporty performance, or effortless urban driving, the Micra's well-matched engine and gearbox combinations ensure there's a suitable option for almost every driver.

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