Used Nissan Pixo Review (2008-2013) MK1
Independent review by Peter Hayward from Driving Force
4-minute read
Overview
- Easy to drive
- Affordable running costs
- Low emissions
- Looks might not be to everyone's taste
- Basic models have very low levels of equipment
- Luggage space is tiny
What's the Nissan Pixo like?
A car like the Nissan Pixo makes much more sense than a smart car because it can seat four in reasonable comfort and is just about as easy to park and manoeuvre.
The smallest Nissan is the same as the Suzuki Alto under the skin – and is none the worse for that.
Engines
It’s a city car with a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder engine and 5-speed gearbox, but light weight means performance is quite acceptable, and it can keep up with the flow of traffic on the motorway.
Obviously, such a small car is all about economy and low running costs, and the Pixo has those too, with 65mpg economy, very low emissions, cheap insurance, and low road tax.
Driving Experience and Practicality
The Pixo is good fun out on country roads, as they handle well and have plenty of grip for good roadholding.
They're excellent in town due to their small size, and they're quick off the mark away from traffic lights.
Peter Hayward
The little engine sounds lovely when revved and is very willing to do so when pressing on, but of course, such driving won’t do much for your economy.
Small size and a very good turning circle make it a breeze to park, and once you get to know it, that small shape will fit through gaps other cars can only dream of.
Although there's room for four, luggage space is tiny as with a number of city cars, and there's only space for two small bags.
The steering is light but not very informative, the clutch is a featherweight, and the gear change neat and quick.
But basic models don’t even have a dipping rearview mirror, or a passenger door window switch on the driver’s side.
The steering wheel is only adjustable for height, which can make a compromised driving position for taller people.
Comfort is good over all surfaces for a small car, and it takes speed humps in its stride – unlike some of the competition.
Equipment
Inside, the Pixo shares everything with the Alto, so you get a fairly basic cabin and a low level of standard equipment.
There are four trim levels - Visia, Acenta, N-Tec, and Tekna. Entry-level Visia gets few home comforts, hence its low price tag.
It does have twin front airbags, power steering, ABS with electronic brake force distribution, and a CD stereo.
Acenta is the most popular and comes with side airbags, remote locking, electric front windows, front fog lights, colour-coded door handles and mirrors, and a split folding rear seat.
N-Tec and Tekna are the only ones to have air conditioning, and it's not even an option on the others. Tekna models also get stability control and curtain airbags.
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Find your Nissan Pixo your way with CarStore
The Nissan Pixo is a compact city car that offers an effortless driving experience, distinct styling, and low running costs. The Pixo is sufficient in urban areas and on motorways, so you won't need to worry about being restricted to city streets.
