THIRTY per cent of Primeras sold last month were powered by Nissan’s new uprated 138 PS dCi engine.

That’s double the average proportion of Primeras that used to be diesel fuelled.

As a result, Nissan has upped the range to create a new, top-spec T-spec version.

The T of T-spec stands for technology. For example, the 2.2-litre 138 PS diesel engine that shifts the Primera to 62 mph in around 10 seconds and, with 314 Nm of torque available at just 2,000 rpm, gives much more effortless overtaking that the equivalent petrol.

The unit is Nissan’s own and uses modern common rail technology, helped by a six-speed gearbox, to achieve 46.3 mpg on the combined cycle and a CO2 mass emissions figure of 164 g/km.

The car is priced £19,500 for the five-door hatchback and £20,600 for the estate.

The specification of the T-spec includes:

* Seven inch colour display monitor and N-FORM dashboard.

* DVD satellite navigation system which covers all of Europe on one disc.

* Cruise control.

* “Plug and Go” hands-free phone operation.

* Electronic stability programme.

* Rear view camera.

* Rain sensing wipers.

* Auto dim rear view mirror.

* Xenon headlamps with wash, front foglamps.

* Electrically adjustable and heated front seats.

* Seventeen inch alloy wheels.

* Climate control air conditioning.

* Thatcham category 1 approved alarm system.

* CD radio with upgraded speakers and subwoofer, steering wheel mounted audio controls.

* Leather upholstery.

* Electric tilt/slide glass sunroof.

* Electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors.

* Electric front and rear windows.

* Metallic paint.