Across Europe, the supermini or B-segment has been gradually gaining popularity. For those not in-the-know, the B-segment is a class of automobiles that are larger than a subcompact or city car but are slightly smaller than a family car. This in-between niche makes up about 25% of all automobiles sold in Europe.
Acknowledging this market, Nissan recently unveiled its 2013 B-segment lineup that boasts off unique technologies and innovations that are indicative of the company’s dedication to its craft. The lineup includes three brilliantly made vehicles: the Note, Micra and Juke. Here we provide a brief introduction about the trio, and how they stack up against each other.
2013 Nissan Note (SRP from $21,000)
Scheduled to be sold in Europe later this year, the 2013 Nissan Note is powered by a 1.2L gasoline engine rated at 80bhp and 81lb-ft of torque. A supercharged variant is also available, which should be able to chug out an additional 18bhp and 24lb-ft of torque. Lastly, a 1.5L DCi diesel variant is also said to be available, which should be good news to those concerned about their gas mileage, as this one is rated to be the most efficient of the three options. It is rated at 90bhp and 162lb-ft of torque. All engine options are paired with a five-speed manual transmission, although an optional CVT transmission can also be fitted to the 1.2-litre DIG-S engine model upon the customer’s request.
2013 Nissan Micra (SRP from $12,100)
Quite an improvement over the previous generation, the 2013 Nissan Micra has three trim options and two engine + transmission configurations to choose from. This greatly extends the Micra’s audience, which should be able to choose from the following engine variants: (1) 1.2L gasoline engine, rated at 56kW and 100Nm, (2) 1.5L gasoline engine, rated at 75kW and 136Nm of torque.
For a small vehicle, the 2013 Micra has great handing and steering, which translates to easily slipping into small parking spaces and stress-free cornering. Overall, it is also quite fun to drive, with sound dynamics and firmer albeit more balanced suspension.
2013 Nissan Juke (SRP from $18,990)
The 2013 Nissan Juke, obviously, screams and stands out amidst its competition with its rather modern and futuristic styling. It is offered in four variants, the base S, SV, SL and Nismo. Comes standard with the vehicle are 17-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, cloth upholstery, 60/40-split-folding rear seats, keyless entry, full power accessories, cruise control, a tilt-only steering wheel, a trip computer, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player and an auxiliary audio input jack.
Under the hood, the 2013 Nissan Juke packs a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-4 engine that is rated at 188bhp and 177lb-ft of torque. The top-of-the-line Nismo is equipped with the same engine, but has been tuned to produce 197bhp and 184 lb-ft of torque.
Wrap Up
Which B-segment Nissan you choose is all up to your needs, preferences and budget. Nevertheless, whichever one you opt for, you will quite surely be pleased with the overall comfort, quality and handling that Note, Micra and Juke will come to offer. Happy shopping!
Sponsored Post by Nissan.
