New hot Micra is ready to charge in

It's maximum attack for the Micra. Auto Express has learned Nissan is planning a new hot hatch version, powered by an engine with a turbo and supercharger!

Similar in concept to the TSI twin-charger system seen on the Volkswagen Golf, the new 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol super-turbo unit will deliver excellent performance, plus low emissions and strong fuel economy.

It debuts on the next-generation Micra, due in 2010, and according to sources in Japan, will produce 140bhp at 6,000rpm. So it should be powerful enough for a 0-60mph time of around eight seconds. But it will also return 56mpg and emit less than 120g/km of CO2. Standard transmission is expected to be a five-speed manual.

This is not the first time Nissan has dabbled in the world of hi-tech units. It launched its first Micra Super Turbo in 1989 as a model for competition rallying. That car’s 930cc engine generated 110bhp.

As well as a hot powerplant, the Micra flagship is likely to get an eye-catching body, with a look inspired by the GT-R.