A Look at the 2019 Nissan Micra, for Students in Auto Mechanic Training
The Nissan Micra is one of Canada’s two most affordable new cars, closely matched by the Chevrolet Spark. But the price point isn’t the major sell for this compact vehicle, as its features make it a convenient, efficient, and comfortable choice for an everyday car—and in some cases, a race car (but more on that later). Since Micras are widely popular in Canada, there’s a chance you could end up encountering them in your future career.
With a more angular, sportier look this time round, the 2019 Micra improves on engine range and fuel efficiency. Read on for more about this supermini.
The Practicality of a Micra Explained for Students in Auto Mechanic Training School
A Micra can be bought at a price within the range of many 10-year-old used cars. These cars cut back on extras and deliver a more practical, simple hatchback that serves function and fuel efficiency over physical size. All Micras are 5-door, 5-seat, front-wheel drive cars. Safety features include pedestrian-detection auto brakes, blind spot warning, surround-view cameras and active lane-keeping.
The practicality of the 2019 vehicle also shows up in the surprising amount of space inside. The car has 300 litres of trunk space, as well as ample foot and head room—more than you’d think by looking at the miniature car from the outside.
The Micra Is Fun to Drive
In auto mechanic training, you may notice how wheelbase differs from car to car. Micras have a small wheelbase, even smaller than a new Mini Cooper. This allows for easy parking and squeezing into spots that no one else can—a sort of VIP situation for Micra drivers. The 2019 Micra is also a very light vehicle—at about 2300 lbs in a base trim with manual transmission, it is easier on fuel and can travel farther on less.
If you’re looking for proof that the Micra is a fun car, the annual Micra Cup should serve as some evidence. It’s a spec series, or a race where all competitors drive the same car model. The Micra Cup is in its fifth year, with races in both Ontario and Quebec. The cars that race use the same horsepower and transmission as the Micras available to the public, with modifications to the exhaust, brakes, suspension and a few other places.
Look Under the Hood of the 2019 Micra
A new 100 PS (99bhp) 1-litre turbocharged petrol engine is on all trims except for the entry-level one, replacing the previous 90 PS (89bhp) 1-litre. The new engine is more fuel efficient as well as more powerful (not always a combination you can get), plus lighter and less polluting.
If you’re in auto mechanic training school, you might be wondering if there’s an enhanced version of this car. A higher performance “warm hatch” version contains a 117 PS (115bhp) petrol turbo engine, in addition to a lowered suspension (by 10mm), to improve stability and aerodynamics. The steering is more sensitive and a 6-speed manual gearbox rounds out the vehicle for an improved driving experience.
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