Hello!

[Mr_Sparklu]

Hi,

I am so glad this forum exists as it was the final thing I needed to tip the balance if favor of buying what has been referred to as the 2015 Nissan "Unicorn" Manual Micra S. Yes, I found one in red, and got it all in, taxes and everything, for approx $12700. I love the bare bones aspect, as I am not a fan of power anything – can we not do anything for ourselves anymore. Also, where I live, AC would be a complete waste as it rarely gets warm enough to warrant it. I like driving with the windows down in summer anyway (how else can you share your music with everyone ). Last car I bought new was a 1997 Honda Civic, for much more than this. It is still running fine, but not in my possession anymore. My other vehicle is a mini Japanese truck, so a Micra feels like a Rolls in comparison. I was looking at a very nice used Honda Fit, with power everything, but it was a 2009, with 68,000km, for almost exactly the same price. So, why not go new, with a warranty no less. I honestly think that the barebones is ‘the’ deal when it comes to this car. I am sure Nissan knows this, which is why they are limiting production so that people will order all the bells and whistles.

I read a lot of reviews about the Micra, and I really don't get some of the comments. I actually heard the power of this car questioned. Having driven a 3 cylinder, 660 cc truck for the past five years this car feels like a rocket. There is plenty of power. Maybe if I lived in California, and was driving on one of their insane highways I might want more, but I doubt it. Hopefully I’ll never have to experience it. The ride is smooth and the shifting feels good, but I still need to get used to the clutch as it is very light when compared to the very stiff one in my truck. So far I love this car and I hope to have it for years to come. It looks great, is super roomy, and is fun to drive. It is perfect for the city and will easily stretch out on the nice highway drives in my area.

I have some questions about optimal shifting if anyone can direct me to any existing discussion on it.

Thank you!

[MetroMPG]

Welcome, Mr Sparklu!

Congrats on snaring a unicorn! I think they were harder to find in the summer (as were manual transmissions in the SV), but we haven't heard any stories lately about people not being able to get the Micra spec they want. (I'm sure it took Nissan a while to sort out supply & demand for the various trims.)

What kind of mini-trucklet do you have? I loved seeing the various Kei cars rolling around Vancouver last time I was there.

As for optimal shifting, what do you mean? Optimal for acceleration? Floor it and shift at redline.

Optimal for fuel economy? Upshift as soon as you can without lugging the engine (a.k.a. "short shifting), and always go for the highest non-lugging gear once up to speed. Downshift when you want power.

[micrapolis]

well if you're coming from a kei truck, the micra would indeed feeel powerful

you made a great choice

[Daox]

Welcome to the site Mr_Sparklu! Its great to have you.

Any plans to do anything special with the Micra?

[Mr_Sparklu]

Hi,

Sorry for the late reply.

My Kei truck is a 1993 Suzuki Carry. Had it for five years and it has been pretty faithful, but just not practical anymore.

So far the Micra has been great. The power is more than adequate for my needs. I have taken it on a mountain drive and it felt great. No issues what so ever. I love shifting gears, so I am more than happy.

As for something special with the vehicle...just take my son on a trip, which I was unable to do with my former vehicle.

Oh, the shifting question is a non issue. I was just curious as the Kei truck really likes hi revs.

Thanks!