Summary
Nissan’s new Micra is more stylish than ever, but is there more to this supermini than meets the eye?
Pros
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Fun styling
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Plenty of standard equipment
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Smart interior
Cons
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Limited choice of engines
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Rivals have more spacious interiors
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Ride could be more comfortable
Introduction
Across the generations the Nissan Micra has been an icon in low-cost and simple motoring, with this supermini offering widespread appeal to a range of drivers.
The latest generation feels like the most radical yet, with a more striking design than its predecessor, as well as a higher-quality interior to bring it on par with rivals. It’s certainly impressive, but now Nissan is back with a subtly updated model to try and improve it further, so does it succeed?
Latest model
Changes on the latest Micra are not significant, but are certainly welcome. The biggest update is the introduction of a new 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine (badged IG-T 92), which brings welcome cuts in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption.
Other tweaks to the range include larger alloy wheels along with more technology – including LED headlights and a clever around-view camera system.
Driving feel
The Micra’s new turbocharged petrol unit has certainly improved the package. This latest generation of supermini is a much more enjoyable car behind the wheel than its predecessors.
It’s best around town, where the light steering makes it impressively easy to drive. It’s enjoyable at higher speeds, too, and handles well for this class, if not being quite as exciting as the Ford Fiesta.
The only downside is that this sportier stance means the ride is quite firm, especially on models with larger alloy wheels fitted, although it’s never uncomfortable.
Looks and image
The latest Nissan Micra is sportier than it has been for a long time, and despite the design not being changed for a few years, it remains cool and stylish. It really is a handsome bit of design, especially on the higher-spec versions, which get lower suspension and sporty tweaks to improve things further.
Space
The Micra isn’t the roomiest car in this segment, but it should offer plenty of space for most looking at a small car.
The 300-litre boot is a good size by class standards, while the latest model has more room in the front and back than previously. That said, because of the slightly raking roofline, taller adults may struggle for headroom in the rear.
Engines and running costs
Nissan has culled its range of engines in recent years, and there’s now just one to choose from – the new IG-T 92, in Nissan speak.
It's a turbocharged 1.0-litre petrol unit that produces 91bhp and 144Nm of torque, allowing for a 0-60mph time of 11.6 seconds and a top speed of 111mph. It has a five-speed manual gearbox as standard or an optional CVT automatic.
Another asset of the Micra is low running costs, with Nissan claiming it will return around 50mpg, with CO2 emissions of 129g/km.
Powertrains
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1.0-litre turbocharged petrol (91bhp)
Rivals
Trims explained
There are four trim levels available on the latest Nissan Micra. Here are the highlights…
Visia
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Automatic lights and wipers
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Electric front windows
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Trip computer
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Bluetooth
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DAB radio
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Air conditioning
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LED daytime running lights
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Front fog lights
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Autonomous emergency brake
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Lane keep assist
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Electric folding mirrors
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Cruise control
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7-inch touchscreen
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Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
N-Sport (in addition to Acenta)
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LED headlights
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17-inch alloy wheels
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Sportier styling
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Reversing camera
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Rear parking sensors
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Alcantara seats
Tekna (in addition to Acenta)
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Leather steering wheel
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Satellite navigation
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Around-view camera monitoring system
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Bose sound system
The Nissan Micra is now available in the Smart Lease range for a limited time. Find out more about leasing a Nissan Micra.