2000 NISSAN Micra 3 Doors 1.0L 5MT (60 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Nissan wasn’t ready to replace the Micra’s second generation, which was on the market since 1992, so it added a final refresh in 2000, a revamp that affected both the five- and the three-door versions.

Europe was ready to introduce the Euro 3 emission standards, which became mandatory starting in 2001. Thus, many automakers had to replace or update their engines so their cars could fit in these new measures. While some opted to introduce new models, others kept their older models and only improved them. Nissan was among the latter group, and its decision paid off.

Even though the biodesign era was closed to an end, the carmaker didn’t feel to completely abandoning the ideas. Thus, the two-leaf grille design with chromed surroundings adorned the car’s front fascia. Its headlights were slightly curved and featured amber turn-signals incorporated into the headlamps, while the bumper sported, as an option, a pair of reshaped, triangular foglamps that flanked the broad lower grille. This small-sized Micra featured a sportier profile thanks to its three-door bodywork that led to longer doors and wide rear windows. Moreover, this version also got a sporty trim level and package that added light-alloy wheels to this city vehicle.

The interior could have been described as cozy, thanks to the small bucket seats at the front and the narrow bench in the rear. Access to the rear was helped by the tilt-forward front seats, but it wasn’t something special. Moreover, there was hardly enough elbow- and shoulder room, not to mention legroom which was very limited.

Under the hood, the carmaker installed a choice of two engines of 1.0- and a 1.3-liter mated to a five-speed manual. For selected markets, Nissan also offered a turbo-diesel engine.