Nissan GB has unveiled a refreshed version of one of its concept cars – the mid-engined Micra 350SR – to mark its 23rd anniversary, as the brand prepares to launch the MICRA EV.
Originally built in 2002 by Nissan GB in collaboration with its touring car racing team, the one-off Micra 350SR was based on a K12-generation Micra and designed to showcase the versatility and motorsport heritage of the model.
Now, over two decades later, the car has received a sympathetic ‘restomod’ update by the designers at Nissan Design Europe in London.
Powered by a 3.5-litre V6 from the Murano and enhanced with NISMO cams, 350Z headers and a remapped ECU, the 350SR delivers around 300hp to the rear wheels, in a car weighing just 1,200kg.
To celebrate the model’s milestone 23rd birthday – nicknamed its ‘Ni-San’ anniversary, after the Japanese pronunciation of the digits two (ni) and three (san) – the car has been treated to a number of upgrades.
The refreshed look includes a satin liquid silver finish with blue accents, graphics inspired by the rear lights of the iconic 300ZX, and LED headlights with distinctive semi-circular DRLs that echo the design of the new MICRA EV.
The original 18-inch RAYS alloy wheels have been refurbished in gloss black, and the grille and lower bodywork have also been given a modernised finish.
Inside, new seats, harnesses and a 9-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have been added – though the V6 soundtrack remains the dominant feature.
Nissan says the project was developed with a light-touch ethos, preserving the character and significance of the 350SR while bringing its looks and functionality up to date.
The work was undertaken by the same team behind the design of the new MICRA EV and the Concept 20-23 show car, both of which draw design inspiration from the rounded silhouette of the K12 Micra.
Kate McLaren, head of marketing and sales operations at Nissan GB, said the restoration was a fitting way to honour both the 350SR’s unique place in the company’s heritage and the arrival of the next-generation MICRA.
The updated Micra 350SR will make its public debut today (15th May) at the SMMT Test Day at Millbrook Proving Ground – the same site used for the car’s original development.
