Nissan Micra NISMO (VW Polo GTI rival) reportedly considered

03/11/2016 - 17:45 ,   Aravind Jayachandran

Likely to be more than just a NISMO-branded body kit.

Auto Evolution is reporting that Nissan could be mulling over a NISMO variant of the new Micra for European markets, which will be pitched as a rival to the VW Polo GTI, Ford Fiesta ST, RenaultSport Clio 200 RS, SEAT Ibiza Cupra and Peugeot 208 GTi.

In Japan, the outgoing Nissan Micra was available in a Nismo variant (pictured), although upgrades were limited to cosmetic enhancements.

The JDM-spec Nissan Micra (called the Nissan March) was available in a Nismo variant, although the upgrades were limited to cosmetic enhancements such as a sportier bumpers, larger alloy rims, red accents, roof spoiler and a chrome-finished exhaust pipe.

The new Micra NISMO that is being planned is likely to feature more than just a NISMO body kit. It could pack a bigger engine, although given that it's under consideration, there are no firm details. The smallest NISMO in the portfolio - the Nissan Juke NISMO - is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, which also powers the new Micra's French cousin - the Renault Clio RS.

The new Micra NISMO that is being planned is likely to feature more than just a NISMO-branded body kit.

Also Read: Nissan GT-R to launch in India on December 2

As for the regular Micra, it's expected to arrive in showrooms across Europe in March 2017. Engine options include a 90 hp 0.9 TCe three cylinder engine, 73 hp 1.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine and a 90 hp 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine.

[Source: Autoevolution]

2017 Nissan Micra vs. 2014 Nissan Micra

More from Nissan

Subscribe to our daily newsletter