Nissan Canada Launches One-Make Micra Cup Race Series
The Nissan Micra has already staked itself out as the most affordable new car on sale in Canada, with a base price of just $9,998 CDN. And at $19,998, it’s also the cheapest race car in the country.
Nissan and Quebec performance outfit JD Motorsports are launching the one-make Micra Cup, intended as a stepping stone series to bridge the gap between karting and more costly forms of motorsports.
The Micra race cars will be based on the lowest trim level Micra S, and be sold as a turnkey package prepared for racing. Modifications include a NISMO suspension kit, better brake pads, alloy wheels and performance tires, a new exhaust and the requisite safety gear.
While the Micra Cup will be limited to Quebec initially, it may expand to other provinces in Canada (Quebec is currently the top market for the Micra). What we wouldn’t give to see it expanded to include our fantasy “ Spec Mirage” class as well.
More by Derek Kreindler
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I recently drove a rented Micra in Thailand. There it’s called the March, and it comes with a 79 hp 1.2 L engine and a CVT. Those specs allow it to qualify for Thailand’s Eco-car program, in which automakers are awarded financial perks in return for producing fuel-sipping cars domestically. The Micra/March was good, however its appearance and drivetrain were a notch down from that of the slightly pricier Honda Brio, which is also a CVT-equipped Eco-car. But the Nissan’s very lack of refinement might just make it the more suitable vehicle for Thailand driving and Canadian spec series racing alike.