2011 Nissan March Debuts in Japan

YOKOHAMA, Japan — Nissan has launched sales of its redesigned March minicar in the Japan domestic market. Unveiled earlier this year at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show, the fourth-generation March, also sold as the Micra in Europe and other overseas markets, eventually will be built in five countries, including China and Mexico, and is expected to arrive next year in North America.

In addition to all-new sheetmetal, a revised color palette (choices include Spring Green, Night Veil Purple and Crystal Lilac) and a completely revamped "twin bubble" cabin, the 2011 March should be one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its class, thanks to new powertrain technology.

The centerpiece is Nissan's new HR12DE engine, a 1.2-liter three-cylinder power plant that makes 79 horsepower and is mated to a new version of the company's Xtronic continuously variable transmission. Fitted with an "idling stop" system that shuts the engine down when the vehicle is at rest, the powertrain team achieves a remarkable fuel-economy rating of 61 mpg on Japan's urban test cycle.

European variants will get a derivative of the engine, designated HR12DDR. This is a direct-injection Miller-cycle engine with a supercharger that is automatically switched off at lower speeds to conserve fuel. The 1.2-liter three-cylinder is fitted with an idling-stop system and is designed to emit an ultra-low 95 g/km of CO2, while providing power equivalent to that of a normally aspirated 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine.

Nissan said the new March in Japan will be priced from $11,500 to $18,990, including tax.

Inside Line says: Although it's never been sold in the U.S., the March/Micra has been a huge hit at home and in many other markets for Nissan, reaching more than 5.6 million customers around the world since its debut in 1982. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent