The Nissan HR12DDR is a 1,198 cc, inline‑three supercharged petrol engine produced between 2010 and 2018. It features a DOHC 12‑valve design with direct fuel injection and a Roots — type supercharger, delivering outputs of 96 kW (130 PS) and 190 Nm. The compact three‑cylinder layout with forced induction provides a blend of efficiency and spirited performance for small crossovers.
Fitted primarily to the Nissan Juke and Micra C+C, the HR12DDR was engineered for drivers s…
Production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards for applicable markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Nissan HR12DDR is a 1,198 cc inline‑three supercharged petrol engine engineered for compact crossovers (2010-2018). It combines direct fuel injection with a mechanically driven Roots-type supercharger to deliver strong low-end torque and responsive performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances urban efficiency with engaging drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,198 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Supercharged (Roots-type) | |
Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 83.6 mm | |
Power output | 96 kW (130 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
Torque | 190 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (GDI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None (Roots-type supercharger) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Nissan 5W-30 (API SN/ILSAC GF-5) | |
Dry weight | 95 kg |
The Nissan HR12DDR was used across Nissan's Juke and Micra platforms with transverse mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Juke and revised intake ducting in the Micra C+C-and from 2014 the facelifted Juke models adopted a revised supercharger pulley ratio for improved low-end response, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The HR12DDR's primary reliability risk is supercharger bypass valve actuator failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Nissan TSB NTB13-077 documents this concern, while general owner feedback indicates carbon buildup on intake valves and ignition coil failures are also common. Neglecting scheduled oil changes can accelerate chain wear, making adherence to the maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from Nissan technical bulletins (2010-2018) and owner-reported failure data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The HR12DDR is generally reliable if basic maintenance is followed. Its main weaknesses are the supercharger bypass actuator and intake valve carbon buildup. With regular servicing, timely actuator replacement, and periodic intake cleaning, it can easily exceed 150,000 km. Its robust chain-driven timing system is a positive factor for longevity.
The most frequent issues are supercharger bypass valve actuator failure (causing boost loss), carbon buildup on intake valves (causing rough running), and ignition coil failures (causing misfires). Timing chain tensioner wear is also a known concern if oil changes are neglected. These are well-documented in Nissan service information.
The HR12DDR engine was used in the Nissan Juke (2010-2018) and the Nissan Micra C+C (2010-2014). It was marketed as the 1.2 DIG-T, offering a unique combination of small displacement and forced induction for its class.
Modest power gains are possible. As a supercharged engine, it responds well to ECU remaps, which can safely increase output by 15-20%. More significant gains require upgrading the supercharger pulley or intercooler, but these modifications can strain the engine and drivetrain, making them less practical for daily use.
Good for a forced-induction engine. Official combined figures for the Nissan Juke are around 5.1 L/100km (55 mpg UK). Real-world driving typically yields 6.0-7.0 L/100km (40-47 mpg UK) in mixed conditions, offering a good balance between performance and efficiency.
Yes. The HR12DDR is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump, the pistons would collide with the open valves, resulting in severe internal engine damage requiring a costly rebuild or replacement.
Nissan specifies a 5W-30 viscosity grade engine oil meeting API SN or ILSAC GF-5 standards. Using the correct oil is crucial for protecting the timing chain tensioner and ensuring the supercharger and variable valve timing systems operate correctly. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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