The Nissan Micra K13 1.2 DIG-S (98 horsepower) was a key variant of Nissan’s fourth-generation Micra, produced from 2010 to 2013. Positioned as a more efficient and slightly more engaging option within the K13 lineup, it aimed to broaden the Micra’s appeal beyond its traditionally budget-focused image. This model was primarily marketed in Europe and other international markets, offering a blend of fuel economy and reasonable performance in the supermini segment. The K13 generation represented a significant departure from its predecessors, adopting a more contemporary design and a focus on affordability and practicality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Micra |
| Generation | Micra (K13) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 DIG-S (98 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10 kg/Hp, 100 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 144.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 98 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 142 Nm @ 4400 rpm (104.73 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HR12DDR |
| Engine displacement | 1198 cm3 (73.11 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.9 l (4.12 US qt | 3.43 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 980 kg (2160.53 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1435 kg (3163.63 lbs) |
| Max load | 455 kg (1003.1 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 265 l (9.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1132 l (39.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 41 l (10.83 US gal | 9.02 UK gal) |
| Length | 3780 mm (148.82 in) |
| Width | 1675 mm (65.94 in) |
| Height | 1525 mm (60.04 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in) |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.3 m (30.51 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 175/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Micra 1.2 DIG-S is the HR12DDR engine, a 1.2-liter, three-cylinder, naturally aspirated gasoline engine. This engine was a significant upgrade over the standard 1.2-liter unit offered in other Micra trims. The “DIG-S” designation stands for “Direct Injection Gasoline – Supercharged,” although it’s important to note this engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection, not direct injection. The HR12DDR features a variable valve timing system (CVTC) to optimize performance and fuel efficiency across the rev range. The engine produces 98 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 142 Nm (104.73 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. This power is delivered through a five-speed manual transmission, which was the only transmission option available with this engine in most markets. The engine’s compact size and lightweight construction contribute to the Micra’s overall agility.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 DIG-S equipped Micra offered a noticeable improvement in driving experience compared to the base 1.2-liter models. While not a performance car, the extra power and torque made it more capable in everyday driving situations, particularly when overtaking or merging onto highways. The five-speed manual transmission provided a decent level of control, although the gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy rather than outright acceleration. The engine felt responsive at lower revs, making it suitable for city driving, but it did require more frequent gear changes to maintain momentum on inclines or at higher speeds. Compared to the later 1.5 dCi diesel variants, the DIG-S offered a smoother, quieter driving experience, but lacked the diesel’s superior fuel economy and low-end torque.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 DIG-S trim typically sat in the mid-range of the K13 Micra lineup. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a CD player with auxiliary input, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as the Visia+ or Tekna, added features like alloy wheels, a trip computer, remote central locking, and a more comprehensive audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a relatively simple and functional dashboard layout. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, parking sensors, and a navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The Micra K13 utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were drums. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced stopping power and stability. The relatively lightweight construction of the Micra helped to compensate for the modest braking performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.2 DIG-S Micra was generally well-received by automotive critics as a sensible and economical choice in the supermini segment. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and improved performance compared to the base models. However, some reviewers noted that the interior felt somewhat basic and that the engine could be noisy at higher revs. Compared to rivals like the Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, and Renault Clio, the Micra offered a competitive price point and a strong value proposition, but lacked the overall refinement and driving dynamics of some of its competitors. The diesel variants of the Micra offered superior fuel economy, but the DIG-S provided a smoother and quieter driving experience.
Legacy
The HR12DDR engine, while not without its quirks, proved to be a relatively reliable powertrain. Common issues included occasional oil leaks and potential problems with the variable valve timing system, but these were generally not widespread. Today, the K13 Micra 1.2 DIG-S remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient city car. Its simple mechanical design and readily available parts make it relatively easy and inexpensive to maintain. The DIG-S variant is often preferred over the base 1.2-liter models due to its improved performance and overall driving experience.
