Compact hatchback Nissan March is one of the most popular city cars in Russia, and its interior often becomes the deciding factor when choosing. Despite its modest dimensions (the length is only 3.8–3.9 meters), the manufacturer managed to competently organize the space, offering the driver and passengers a surprisingly functional interior. But is it really that good in practice? In this review we will look at finishing materials, ergonomics, configurations and those nuances that are kept silent in salons.
Model March (known in some countries as Micra) has gone through several generations, and the modern version (2020–2026) has received noticeable improvements: from the quality of plastic to the multimedia system. However, even she has weaknesses - for example, noise insulation at speeds above 90 km/h leaves much to be desired, and the back row is suitable only for children or short trips. Next is an honest analysis with photos, comparisons and tips for tuning the interior.
Interior design and ergonomics: pros and cons
Interior Nissan March made in a minimalist style with accents on rounded shapes. The center console is slightly angled towards the driver, which improves access to the buttons, but some controls (for example, climate control controls in basic versions) are located inconveniently. The small-diameter steering wheel is a plus for maneuverability in the city, but a minus for long trips: your hands get tired quickly.
Among the successful solutions:
- 🔹 High seats with good lateral support (heated in top trim levels).
- 🔹 Good visibility thanks to large windows and thin counters.
- 🔹 Driver armrest (optional) - rare for the class.
- 🔹 Dashboard lighting with brightness adjustment (in versions from 2022).
Here's what's disappointing:
- ⚠️ Hard plastic on door cards - scratched by keys.
- ⚠️ Small glove compartment — only holds documents.
- ⚠️ No cup holders in the rear in basic versions.
- Steering wheel
- Seats
- Climate control
- trunk
- Other
Finishing materials: what's really inside
B Nissan March Materials used are typical for the budget segment, but with some pleasant exceptions. For example, in the top configuration Tekna the seats are upholstered combined fabric with leatherette, which is easy to clean and does not stain. But in the basic Visia - only fabric that gets dirty quickly and absorbs odors.
Let's look at the details:
| Salon element | Material (base) | Material (top) | Wear resistance rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steering wheel | Plastic with rubber inserts | Leatherette | ⭐⭐⭐ (erased after 2–3 years) |
| Instrument panel | Soft plastic | Soft plastic with stitching | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (does not creak) |
| Door cards | Hard plastic | Hard plastic with fabric inserts | ⭐⭐ (scratched) |
| Seats | Fabric | Combined fabric + leatherette | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (in the top - good) |
Important nuance: in models before 2021, the plastic of the instrument panel begins to creak on uneven surfaces. This can be treated with silicone grease, but it is better to immediately check the car on a test drive.
If you buy a used March, pay attention to the condition of the plastic around the gearshift lever - it is often worn off by the driver’s shoes.
Options and options: what's worth paying extra
Nissan March in Russia it is offered in three main configurations: Visia, Acenta And Tekna. The difference between them is not only in options, but also in quality of materials. For example, in Tekna added:
- 🎵 Multimedia system with navigation (only radio in the database).
- 🔥 Heated front seats and steering wheel.
- 🚗 Rear view camera with dynamic lines.
- 🔄 Climate control (instead of regular air conditioning).
But there are also pitfalls. For example, in Acenta no armrest, although he appears in Tekna. And the system NissanConnect (even at the top) often slows down and requires map updates for a fee.
What is the dealer hiding when selling?
The Tekna configuration does not include a light or rain sensor - they are installed only on European versions.
Selection advice: if the budget is limited, it is better to take Acenta and pay extra for heated seats And rear view camera as an option, it’s cheaper than overpaying for a full top.
Passenger interior: comfort or compromise?
Back row in Nissan March - this is a classic example "a compact car for the city". The cabin is cramped even for two adult passengers if the driver is tall. Distance from front seat to rear seat - total 780 mm, and the ceiling height is 1350 mm. For comparison: Kia Picanto these indicators are 50–70 mm better.
What is pleasantly surprising:
- 🪑 Rear seat backs adjustable for tilt angle (rare for this class).
- 🧳 Trunk capacity 270 liters - more than Hyundai i10 (252 l).
- 👶 ISOFIX for child seats (available in all trim levels).
What's disappointing:
- ⚠️ No rear center armrest.
- ⚠️ Ventilation vents at front only — It’s stuffy in the back in the summer.
- ⚠️ No pockets on the backs of the front seats.
The March is suitable for a family with 1 child, but not for frequent trips with adult passengers in the back seat.
Noise insulation: is it true that the cabin is noisy?
This is one of the most controversial points. In city mode (up to 80 km/h) interior March quite quiet thanks good insulation of the engine compartment. But on the highway the situation changes:
- 🚗 At speeds of 100+ km/h You can hear noise from the wheels and wind (especially from the front pillars).
- 🔊 Engine 1.0 (HR10DE) It's loud at high speeds.
- 🌧️ In the rain The noise from drops on the roof is amplified due to the thin metal.
For comparison: Toyota Yaris And Volkswagen Polo insulation is 15–20% better. However, the problem can be partially solved:
☑️ How to reduce noise in the March cabin
Important: in models after 2022, the insulation has improved slightly due to denser seals, but there are no fundamental changes.
Interior tuning: what you can improve with your own hands
Even the basic interior March can be transformed without large investments. Here are the top 5 improvements:
- Replacing the steering wheel to leather (from Nissan Juke suitable for fastenings).
- Installing LED lighting in the legs and glove compartment (costs ~2000 rubles).
- Instrument panel pasting carbon film (will hide scratches).
- Replacing the original radio on Android Auto-compatible (for example, Pioneer SPH-DA130DAB).
- Installing seat covers (for example, from Covercraft - protect against burnout).
Warning: When replacing the radio, you will have to buy an adapter to keep the steering wheel buttons working (about 3,000 rubles).
How to save on tuning?
Many interior parts from the Nissan Micra (European version) fit the March and are cheaper.
Comparison with competitors: who is better?
Main rivals Nissan March on the Russian market - Kia Picanto, Hyundai i10 And Toyota Yaris. Let's compare them based on key interior parameters:
| Parameter | Nissan March | Kia Picanto | Hyundai i10 | Toyota Yaris |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rear legroom (mm) | 780 | 810 | 790 | 850 |
| Trunk volume (l) | 270 | 255 | 252 | 286 |
| Noise insulation (1–5) | 3 | 4 | 3 | 5 |
| Plastic quality (1–5) | 3 | 4 | 4 | 5 |
Conclusion: March loses Yaris in terms of comfort, but outperforms Picanto for the price and luggage space. If needed the quietest interior possible - better look to the side Toyota. If important practicality — March not the worst choice.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan March interior
Is it possible to install full climate control in the basic package?
No, in Visia And Acenta Only regular air conditioning is provided. For climate control you need to take Tekna or look for a used car with this option. An alternative is to install universal climate control (for example, from Valeo), but it will cost 30–40 thousand rubles.
What is the real seat resource in March?
In the basic fabric trim, the seats begin to lose their shape after 80–100 thousand km (especially the side bolsters). In the top-end configuration with leatherette, the resource increases to 150 thousand km with careful operation. To extend service life, use covers and avoid parking in direct sunlight.
How much does March interior soundproofing cost?
Complete sound insulation (doors, floor, roof, arches) in the service will cost 25–40 thousand rubles. You can save money by doing partial insulation yourself (materials - ~10 thousand rubles). The greatest effect is achieved by treating doors and floors (reduces noise by 30–40%).
Will a child seat fit in the front seat of a March?
Technically yes, but disable airbag possible only in trim levels from 2021 (button on the end of the seat). In older models, this will require a service visit. Also keep in mind that the front seat is narrow - a group 0+ seat may not stand up straight.
Which March interior accessories should you buy right away?
Top 5 useful little things:
- Trunk organizer (eg Thule).
- Rugs WeatherTech (protect from dirt and water).
- LED interior lighting (white or blue).
- Smartphone holder for ventilation grille.
- Pedal covers (aluminum or rubber).