By Andrew Ganz
Wednesday, Mar 3rd, 2010 @ 6:19 am

Nissan ’s cheeky Micra has long been popular with European consumers – if not enthusiasts – but with only one facelift since its late 2002 debut, it was time for a redesign. Enter the 2011 Micra, which just debuted at the Geneva Motor Show.

The first car to ride on Nissan ’s all-new V platform, the Micra boasts increased roominess and a highly-efficient drivetrain lineup.

Aimed mainly at urban drivers, the Micra will offer a so-called “parking space measurement” system that combines with the parking sensors to help drivers navigate their way into parallel slots.

Powered by a 1.2-liter three-cylinder, the 79-horsepower Micra won’t win any drag races. But its lithe packaging and low-displacement engine combine to give it a decent 115 g/km of CO2 rating. Nissan will also offer a supercharged version of that three-cylinder rated at 100 horsepower. Interestingly, the supercharged model will come fitted with a start-stop system that helps reduce emissions to just 98 g/km of CO2. A five-speed manual will be standard, although a CVT will be optional.

It’s unclear what powertrain will usher the Micra into North America when the car goes on sale here, however. U.S. and Canadian sales are anticipated to begin for the 2012 model year, although Europe will receive the latest Micra in November and sales in Thailand begin almost immediately.

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