Nissan Micra/March Sedan rendering (Codename : L02B)

With the Micra already unveiled and creating quite a buzz, the focus will slowly shift to the Micra based sedan on the V-Platform. The sedan version codenamed L02B will be launched by end-2010 to early 2011. Going by the renderings available and the styling of the hatchback, we think that the sedan will not be a Micra+boot (like the Dzire or the older Indigo). The hatch’s styling wouldn’t gel well with a boot stuck to it and Nissan being Nissan are likely to make the sedan look distinct.

It will however share the same V-Platform with the Micra and most of the mechanicals would remain the same although they are likely to be tuned to suit an upmarket model. The merits of the Micra like low kerb weight and reduced parts will remain and the wheelbase is expected to be stretched by 5-10cm to generate more rear space. Our source reports that the sedan would be 4200-4390mm long, 1690mm wide and measure 1490mm in height.

It is expected with a new range of engines like the HR15DE 1.5L petrol 4-cylinder engine or the HR16DE 1.6L. Although these engines are quite common, what we would really like Nissan to offer is the supercharged 1.2 that makes 97bhp and emits just 95 g/km in the hatchback. It would be simpler as it shares common parts with the non-supercharged version and moreover, such an engine would add ‘Bling’ to the sedan. Even VW will launch a 1.2TSI for the Polo Sedan. Along with the petrol, a 1.5L K9K diesel engine from the Logan is expected as well.

Competing against the likes of Ford Fiesta, Honda City, Indigo Manza, SX4 and the lot in India, the L02B must offer something unique to establish itself. As such, we have no information about this car (except that it is based on the V-Platform) and hence we reserve our comments till we get to see the vehicle. The L02B will be produced in LCC – Leading Competitive Countries like India, China, Thailand and another undisclosed location.

Finally, we have no idea about its price as we still do not have the prices of the Micra. We expect the range to start at Rs 6.5 lakhs.

Source