Hatched - Nissan working on two cars below Micra

According to a recent report on a popular auto magazine, Nissan is working on two small cars below the Micra. IAB had reported last year about Nissan mulling a sub-Micra mini hatchback, but Autocar India has spilled the beans on the second model as well.

The first car (codename - K2) is going to sit right under the Micra when it comes out in December 2012. It will use a two generation old Micra platform (the Micra that existed from 1992-2003) and the current Micra's 1.2-liter petrol engine. A 1.0-liter engine capable of higher fuel economy is also being considered. The old Micra had a 1.0-liter MPFI petrol engine capable of 60PS, but given the fact that it's outdated, we'd be surprised to find it under the K2's bonnet.

The K2 must have been prompted by the success of the Ford Figo, which is a phased out European Fiesta with new body panels and an upgraded diesel engine. By using the old Micra platform, Autocar India says up to 50,000 rupees was saved.

The second car (codename - I2) will be positioned between the proposed ULC and the K2. Despite Ashok Leyland denying any role in the development of a small car with Nissan, Autocar India believes the I2 will be done up by Defiance Testing and Engineering, a US company which Ashok Leyland bought in 2007. There are no details available on this car, though the report mentions it will take the fight to the Alto.

It would be a better idea to develop this car using resources available in India, like how Tata Motors did or how Bajaj is developing the ULC. There would be nothing better than having an Indian task force behind a small car for our market as the thinking and ideologies will be in line with our customer's needs.

It is safe to assume that the I2 will have a sub 1.0-liter petrol engine and four doors. The I2 is expected in 2013 in India.

Source - autocarindia.com