The Nissan March, known as the Micra in many markets, is a supermini car produced by Nissan since 1982. The K11 series, manufactured from 1992 to 2002, represented a significant redesign and offered a more rounded, contemporary aesthetic compared to its predecessors. The 1.4-liter (82 hp) variant with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) was introduced around the year 2000 and continued through 2002, positioned as a mid-range offering within the K11 lineup. This model aimed to provide a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and ease of driving, appealing to urban commuters and first-time car buyers. It was primarily sold in European and Asian markets, with limited availability in North America.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | March |
| Generation | March (K11) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 (82 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2002 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3/5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 164 km/h (101.9 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 82 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 108 Nm @ 2800 rpm (79.66 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1348 cm3 (82.26 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72 mm (2.83 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.8 mm (3.26 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Kerb Weight | 865 kg (1907 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1360 kg (2998.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 495 kg (1091.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 205 l (7.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 960 l (33.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 3746 mm (147.48 in.) |
| Width | 1595 mm (62.8 in.) |
| Height | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2360 mm (92.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1360 mm (53.54 in.) |
| Rear track | 1325 mm (52.17 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 165/60 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the K11 March 1.4 CVT is the CG13DE engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each intake port for improved combustion efficiency. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to reasonable power output for its displacement. The CG13DE is a naturally aspirated engine, meaning it doesn’t employ forced induction like a turbocharger or supercharger. The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) paired with this engine is a key characteristic of this variant. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, a CVT uses a belt and pulley system to provide a seamless and theoretically infinite number of gear ratios within its operating range. This allows the engine to operate at its most efficient RPM for any given speed, maximizing fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4L CVT March offers a comfortable and undemanding driving experience. With 82 horsepower, acceleration is adequate for city driving and moderate highway speeds, but it’s not particularly sporty. The CVT contributes to smooth acceleration, avoiding the noticeable gear shifts of a conventional automatic. However, some drivers may find the CVT’s “rubber band” feel – where engine RPMs rise independently of vehicle speed – to be less engaging. Compared to the 1.6-liter versions of the K11 March, the 1.4 CVT offers less outright performance. The 1.6 provided a more responsive driving experience, while the diesel options (where available) prioritized fuel economy over acceleration. The CVT, while smooth, doesn’t offer the driver control of a manual transmission.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 CVT March typically came equipped with features considered standard for a supermini of its era. These included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an adjustable steering column. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a relatively simple dashboard layout. Optional extras could include air conditioning, alloy wheels, and a radio/cassette player. Trim levels varied by market, but the 1.4 CVT generally sat in the middle of the range, offering a step up in convenience and refinement compared to the base models but lacking the premium features of higher-spec versions.
Chassis & Braking
The K11 March utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with a relatively simple suspension setup. The front suspension employs independent wishbones, providing a degree of ride comfort and handling precision. The rear suspension utilizes a torsion beam setup, which is cost-effective but less sophisticated than a fully independent system. Braking is comprised of ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was often included as standard equipment, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The chassis was designed to be lightweight, contributing to the car’s fuel efficiency and nimble handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan March 1.4 CVT was generally well-received as a practical and economical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and ease of driving, particularly the smooth operation of the CVT. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of power, especially when fully loaded or tackling steep hills. Compared to other superminis of the time, such as the Ford Fiesta or Volkswagen Polo, the March offered a competitive price point and a focus on affordability. Its fuel economy was generally comparable to its rivals, and its reliability was considered to be good. The CVT, while innovative, was sometimes criticized for its lack of driver engagement.
Legacy
The K11 Nissan March, including the 1.4 CVT variant, has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable vehicle. The CG13DE engine is known for its longevity, and the CVT, while requiring proper maintenance (fluid changes are crucial), can provide years of trouble-free operation. In the used car market, these models are often sought after as affordable and economical transportation. However, potential buyers should be aware of the age-related issues common to older vehicles, such as corrosion and wear and tear on suspension components. The K11 March represents a significant step forward in Nissan’s supermini offerings, establishing a reputation for practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability that continues with subsequent generations of the Micra/March.
