The Nissan Micra (K13) facelift, specifically the 1.2 DIG-S variant producing 98 horsepower, was a key offering in Nissan’s European small car lineup from 2013 to 2017. This iteration of the K13 Micra, introduced as a refresh to the original 2010 model, aimed to address criticisms of the earlier car’s styling and driving experience while maintaining its core strengths of affordability and practicality. The 1.2 DIG-S represented a mid-range option, positioned above the base 1.2-liter naturally aspirated engine and below any potential higher-performance trims. It was primarily marketed towards buyers seeking a balance of fuel efficiency and reasonable performance in a compact package.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Micra |
| Generation | Micra (K13, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 (98 Hp) DIG-S |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 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) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 99 g/km |
| 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 | 10.8 kg/Hp, 92.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 139.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 98 Hp |
| Power per litre | 81.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 147 Nm @ 4400 rpm (108.42 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 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| 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 | 1055 kg (2325.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1425 kg (3141.59 lbs.) |
| Max load | 370 kg (815.71 lbs.) |
| Length | 3825 mm (150.59 in.) |
| Width | 1670 mm (65.75 in.) |
| Height | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Rear track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| 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 gasoline engine featuring direct fuel injection and a turbocharger. This engine was a significant upgrade over the naturally aspirated 1.2-liter unit offered in other Micra trims. The direct injection system, coupled with the small turbocharger, allowed for improved fuel efficiency and increased power output. The HR12DDR engine produces 98 horsepower and 147 Nm (108 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. This engine is known for its relatively smooth operation for a three-cylinder unit, though some engine vibration is still noticeable. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for urban driving and fuel efficiency, rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 DIG-S Micra offered a noticeable improvement in performance compared to the base 1.2-liter model. While not a particularly fast car – 0-60 mph takes around 10.7 seconds – the turbocharger provides a useful boost of power for overtaking and merging onto highways. The 5-speed manual transmission allows drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. However, the engine can feel strained at higher speeds, and the overall driving experience is geared towards practicality and economy rather than sporty handling. The steering is light and easy to use, making it well-suited for city driving. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 DIG-S trim typically included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity as standard equipment. Higher trim levels, often denoted by names like ‘Visia’ or ‘Tekna’, added features such as alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, and automatic headlights. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a relatively simple and functional dashboard layout. Optional extras included a navigation system and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The Micra K13 utilizes a front MacPherson strut suspension and a rear torsion beam suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride, but doesn’t offer the same level of handling precision as more sophisticated suspension designs. The braking system consists of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The relatively light weight of the Micra helps to compensate for the rear drum brakes, providing adequate stopping power for everyday driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.2 DIG-S Micra was generally well-received by automotive critics as a significant improvement over the base model. Reviewers praised its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and improved performance. However, some criticized its relatively basic interior and lack of refinement compared to competitors like the Volkswagen Polo or Ford Fiesta. Compared to the naturally aspirated 1.2-liter Micra, the DIG-S offered a substantial performance boost with only a slight decrease in fuel economy. It provided a more compelling option for drivers who frequently drive on highways or carry passengers.
Legacy
The HR12DDR engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit occasional issues with the turbocharger and fuel injectors. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and fuel system cleaning, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. In the used car market, the 1.2 DIG-S Micra represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient city car. Its combination of practicality, economy, and reasonable performance makes it a popular choice for first-time car buyers and those looking for a low-cost runabout. The K13 Micra, and particularly the DIG-S variant, helped to solidify Nissan’s position in the European small car segment.
