It’s really time for manufacturers to start importing some of their cool little cars into North America. Nissan has just launched the Micra C+C for the Japanese home market, which has been modified slightly from the European model. Come on folks, this tiny drop top would be a huge hit here in North America. Bring it on!

Full press release and lots of photos after the break
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Here in The Garage, we’re all about the history. Most manufacturers realize the value of their heritage and Audi is no different. This year they are celebrating 75 years of the four rings as the company symbol. It’s been 75 years since 4 manufacturers joined forces to become Auto Union AG. This combination of Audi, Horch, Wanderer and DKW produced the second largest auto manufacturer in Germany. If you’re lucky enough to be in Essen from March 29 to April 1, be sure to spend some time at the Techno Classica show, where Audi is showing a number of vehicles from all 4 partners.

Read all the details from the Audi press release after the break
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When Nissan first announced the Versa, the car looked great in pictures. The target price was said to be about 14 grand here in Canada, and they were planning on filling the car full of techie goodness. My concern was that with all this techie stuff, they would have to skimp on interior materials to make it happen. Then, when the first pre production cars showed up at the Canadian International Autoshow those fears were put to rest. The interior looked like they had shrunken a Maxima. It looked that nice.

Fast forward to the production model. That interior quality has stayed with the car, with fit and finish that is on a par with cars more than twice the price. At all speeds, the cabin is quiet and free of squeeks, rattles or any type of wind noise. Much has been said about the amount of room in the rear seats. They are indeed big enough for an adult to be comfortable. That space does however have it’s trade offs for some drivers. While I’m only 5′ 10″, I am a bit on the rotund side and with the driver’s seat all the way back, I still feel a bit too close to the steering wheel for my comfort. It’s not uncomfortable, the airbag just seems a bit close. All in all though, the well thought out interior looks great and has tons of usable space.

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Big thanks to Warwick Paterson for the above pic of the 2007 Nissan Versa at a recent media launch in Nashville. In his blog, Warwick writes about what makes a goes into shooting a video review of a car. He also tells about his visit to the Jack Daniels distillery in Lynchburg and his walkaround in downtown Nashville. Be sure to visit him to see more great shots of the area.