Dubbed the "DIG-S", the engine is a direct injection unit with a supercharger – hence the car's name: Direct Injection Gasoline-Supercharger.

As well as low emissions of 95g/km (115g/km for the CVT) the unit will offer a combined cycle fuel economy of 68.9mpg. Nissan also assures that the 1,198cc three-cylinder unit will produce power comparable with that of a conventional 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine. The engine produces 98bhp and 106lb.ft and offers a top speed of 112mph for the manual.

'Ultra-low emissions with no compromise when it comes to drivability means the Micra DIG-S sets new standards for the current generation of city cars. No other petrol-powered compact hatchback can beat its overall efficiency… and it is more than a match for an equivalent diesel,' said Pierre Loing, vice president product strategy and planning, Nissan International SA.

'We have been able to achieve this ultra-low CO2 figure in a cost-effective package and without the complication of particulate filters needed to clean up diesel engine emissions and which are not entirely compatible with a car that spends much of its life in the city.'

The DIG-S will be given its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show, with sales starting over the summer.