On the crest of a new Micra wave
NISSAN is back in the supermini market. In reality of course its Micra never really left, having been in showrooms since 1982, but the most recent fourth-generation version was disappointing.
Now though, Nissan is back with a brand-new fifth-generation Micra that’s not only tasked with improving sales but also becoming best in class.
Two primary groups of people will be targeted by the Japanese carmaker. The first are aged over 50 with children who have flown the nest. These buyers will typically be looking to downsize but also wanting to retain the qualities, comforts and safety equipment found in the class above. The much younger second group will be those looking for a stylish, good-value supermini.
While Nissan is remaining tight-lipped on the exact sales expectations for the new Micra, it does say the supermini will be in the segment top 10 in its first year. To do this it must deliver between 18,000-20,000 sales which should be easily achievable even though the vehicles aren’t on sale until March. As styling is the first thing that attracts buyers, Nissan has worked hard to make sure the new model looks good and also fits with the rest of the range.
The Micra is lower, wider and longer than the previous version and is arguably the best-looking model in Nissan’s current range, particularly at the front of the car.
As it is available only in five-door form, Nissan has opted for hidden rear door handles to give it a more sleek look. It works but this contributes to a very wide rear pillar that blocks your vision when looking over your shoulder at junctions or manoeuvring.
Two engines are on offer initially, a 900cc three-cylinder turbo-petrol producing 89bhp and a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel with the same power output but more grunt. Both engines are very refined. The petrol has an appealing three-cylinder thrum but it is less pronounced than in rival cars. This is very welcome. The diesel is also one of the most refined in the sector particularly on a 70mph cruise.
Later this year a 73bhp 1.0-litre petrol will be added to the range and Nissan hasn’t ruled out hybrid and quicker versions in the future.
The turbo-diesel is the quicker of the two engines, just. The 0-to60mph time comes up in 11.9 seconds and it has a top speed of 111mph. The petrol records figures of 12.1 seconds for the 0-to-60mph sprint and has a maximum speed of 109mph. Both use a five-speed manual gearbox.
Driving around town in the petrol feels more responsive and nippier. However, at higher speeds the diesel is the car that feels faster