2010 Nissan March Review

overall rating
average
Live Life Drive Rating
Price
RM92,399
Installment
RM881/mth

2010 Nissan March at a glance

In contrast to its cute-as-a-button looks, the 2010 Nissan March handles and performs quite well on the roads. But newer alternatives are stealing the show with practicality and rear room that the 2010 Nissan March sorely lacks.

2010 Nissan March quick specs

Body Style Hatchback
Class Small Family
Assembled -
Engine Range -
Fuel Options -
Seating Capacity 5

2010 Nissan March ratings (overall rating : 3.5/5.0)

Styling
Handling
Comfort
Quality + Reliability
Performance
Roominess
Running Costs
Value for Money
Equipment
Environment

Styling

A car that is as cute as a button, and perhaps the cutest in the market? We cannot remember a more cheerful design. Yes, the 2010 Nissan March looks a little girly, but on the whole, Nissan has successfully produced a distinctive design that allows the 2010 Nissan March to stand out in a crowded segment.

Handling

In a contrast to its cute looks, the 2010 Nissan March handles quite well thanks to its agile chassis. Grip levels are not high, but the responsive steering, decent body control, and sharp reactions combine for a fun drive. Highway cruising is composed, too.

Comfort

The ride is firm and bouncy around urban areas, where Nissan March owners would likely be spending the most time. Highway cruising is stable but not quiet, with quite noticeable engine and road noise. The driver enjoys an excellent driving position, but seating and steering adjustments are restrictive. Front and rear visibility is good, plus the controls are laid out clearly. The seats are, however, a little flat for comfort on long trips.

Quality + Reliability

The cabin consists of quality materials, assembled to a high standard that we have come to expect from a Nissan. The doors can use a more solid thud when being shut, though. As for all cars wearing the Nissan badge, the March can be expected to be mechanically reliable in the longer run.

Performance

Producing a maximum of 97 bhp and 137 Nm, the 1.4-litre engine performs admirably, putting in a quick enough showing on the roads, especially for the targeted city-dwelling audience. The four-speed automatic gearbox shifts smoothly, too.

Roominess

Front driver and passenger enjoy masses of room. While the rear may have seats for three passengers, no thanks to the Nissan March's curvy shape, rear headroom is inevitably limited. Rear legroom is still decent, but boot space is disappointing. At least the rear seats can 60:40 split-fold for more storage space.

Running Costs

Fuel economy is good, while servicing and repair costs should be reasonable. Even though the March wears a Nissan badge, depreciation will likely be steeper than for more mainstream Nissan models. In Malaysia, hatchbacks typically fetch lower resale prices compared to similarly-priced sedans. And the situation is grimmer for the Nissan March as its appeal is relatively limited.

Value for Money

The 2010 Nissan March handles and performs quite well on the roads. Add on the distinctive looks and high cabin quality, and the Nissan March makes a strong case for itself. However, it seems the obvious competitors such as the class-leader Honda Jazz, Toyota Yaris, and Suzuki Swift can at least match what the 2010 Nissan March offers (barring the looks), while including room and practicality as their merits. The Perodua Myvi, Malaysians' favourite, is a much cheaper but still capable alternative.

Equipment

The 2010 Nissan March comes equipped with 14-inch wheels, variable-speed windshield wipers, power windows, air-conditioning, auto door lock, Clarion 1-DIN AM/FM radio with CD/MP3/WMA/iPod player and four speakers. Safety equipment includes dual front SRS airbags, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution) and BA (Brake Assist).

Environment

The fuel economy and carbon dioxide emissions make the 2010 Nissan March seem “green” in comparison to many sedans, coupes and SUVs. But when put aside similar hatchbacks, and taking the 2010 Nissan March's light weight and small engine into consideration, there is definitely room to be “greener”.

Live Life Drive Verdict

Cute as a button
Good to drive
High cabin quality
Noise intrusion while cruising
Limited rear headroom and boot space
Capable alternatives

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