The Nissan Pixo 1.0 (68 hp) Automatic, produced between June 2009 and October 2013, represents a unique entry in Nissan’s European city car lineup. This variant was a rebadged Suzuki Alto, a result of a joint venture between Renault-Nissan and Suzuki. Positioned as the most accessible trim level within the Pixo range, it aimed to provide affordable and economical transportation, particularly in densely populated urban environments. The Pixo, and specifically this 1.0L automatic configuration, was primarily marketed in Europe, where demand for small, fuel-efficient vehicles was high. It falls within the A-segment of European cars, competing with models like the Fiat Panda, Toyota Aygo, and Peugeot 107.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Pixo |
| Generation | Pixo |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 (68 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | June, 2009 |
| End of production | October, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 118 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 17 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 17 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 16.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 150 km/h (93.21 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.4 kg/Hp, 74.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 10.1 kg/Nm, 98.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 68 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 90 Nm @ 3400 rpm (66.38 lb.-ft. @ 3400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K10B |
| Engine displacement | 996 cm3 (60.78 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73 mm (2.87 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79.4 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.1 l (3.28 US qt | 2.73 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 910 kg (2006.21 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Max load | 340 kg (749.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 129 l (4.56 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 367 l (12.96 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 35 l (9.25 US gal | 7.7 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 35 kg (77.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 200 kg (440.92 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 50 kg (110.23 lbs.) |
| Length | 3565 mm (140.35 in.) |
| Width | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Height | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2360 mm (92.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1405 mm (55.31 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.3 |
| Minimum turning circle | 9.0 m (29.53 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 55/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 4J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Nissan Pixo 1.0 Automatic is powered by the Suzuki K10B engine, a 996cc inline-three cylinder petrol engine. This engine utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The K10B is known for its simplicity and reliability, prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright performance. The engine’s modest output of 68 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 90 Nm (66 lb-ft) of torque at 3400 rpm is delivered to the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while providing ease of use, is a relatively basic unit and contributes to the car’s relaxed driving experience. The engine’s design emphasizes low friction and lightweight components to minimize fuel consumption and emissions, meeting Euro 5 standards.
Driving Characteristics
The Pixo 1.0 Automatic’s driving experience is best described as undemanding. The four-speed automatic transmission, while convenient, lacks the responsiveness of a manual gearbox or more modern automatic transmissions with additional gears. Acceleration is leisurely, taking approximately 17 seconds to reach 62 mph (100 km/h). The limited power output means that overtaking maneuvers require careful planning. However, within urban environments, the Pixo’s compact size and light steering make it easy to maneuver and park. The automatic transmission smooths out low-speed driving, making it a comfortable choice for city commutes. Compared to a manual Pixo 1.0, the automatic version sacrifices some fuel economy and responsiveness for added convenience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Pixo 1.0 Automatic typically came with a basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Air conditioning was often an optional extra. Interior upholstery was typically a simple cloth material. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over aesthetics. Optional extras could include metallic paint, alloy wheels, and a radio/CD player. The focus was on providing essential features at an affordable price point.
Chassis & Braking
The Pixo utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. The braking system consists of disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The suspension setup is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, providing a reasonably smooth ride on typical urban roads. The relatively lightweight construction of the vehicle (approximately 910 kg or 2006 lbs) helps to mitigate the effects of the modest engine power. The electric power steering provides light and easy steering, making it ideal for maneuvering in tight spaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Pixo 1.0 Automatic was generally well-received as an affordable and economical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and ease of driving, but noted its lack of performance and basic interior. Compared to other trims in the Pixo lineup, such as the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered less fuel economy and a slower acceleration time. However, it appealed to drivers who prioritized convenience and ease of use over performance. In the broader city car segment, the Pixo competed with models like the Fiat Panda, Toyota Aygo, and Peugeot 107, offering a similar level of affordability and practicality.
Legacy
The Nissan Pixo, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, served as a practical and affordable transportation solution for many European drivers. The K10B engine, known for its reliability, has proven to be durable in the long term. On the used car market, the Pixo 1.0 Automatic remains an attractive option for buyers seeking a low-cost, fuel-efficient city car. Maintenance costs are generally low due to the engine’s simplicity and the availability of spare parts. However, potential buyers should be aware of the car’s limited performance and basic equipment levels. The Pixo represents a period of collaboration between Renault-Nissan and Suzuki, demonstrating the benefits of shared engineering and manufacturing resources.
