The Nissan Micra just got slick and refined for 2015. Nissan’s reliable supermini has had the treatment – gorgeous exterior styling, an interior you want to fondle, better spec and great value for money.
The Micra always drove well. It was nippy and nimble, so the new version hasn’t tinkered too much. If it ain’t broke, as they say. The DIG-S engine is a real winner here, teaming a direct-injection engine with a supercharger.
Planet-friendly issues have clearly been at the forefront of Nissan’s minds. The Micra is greener than a polar bear’s kneecaps, but performance is nothing to scoff at either, as the 1,198cc engine will reach 60mph in under 11 seconds. The standard gearbox is a five-speed manual, but you can opt for a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) automatic for ducking and diving around town.
If you’re into saving money, you might prefer the 1.2-litre non-turbo petrol. That’s good for around £1500. Whatever you go for, you'll enjoy well-designed suspension at the back, so boot access won’t be a problem, and a turning circle of just 4.5m makes the supermini a super option for u-turns.
The biggest change you’ll notice is externally. The Micra has a new face with a newly designed grille that makes it look much more like its bigger siblings. There are changes, too, to the wings, headlights, bonnet and bumper. Front fogs have some neat chrome edging and the back has a slicker bumper to go with the LED tail lamps
It’s a fresh look that’s set off nicely with 15” and 16” alloys. To the eight existing colour options, you can now add the rather exciting pearl metallic Pacific Blue and metallic Platinum Sage.
But does the Micra score over the Fiesta and Corsa? To do that, it would need a revamped interior, and that’s exactly what buyers will get. The interior has had a lot of work and now offers a high equipment level, thanks to the Tekna trim.
Accommodation is more than adequate, making you wonder where Nissan found the space from. Head room and shoulder room are vastly improved from the predecessor and the boot is a pretty competitive size. With a low window line and plenty of glass, the cabin has an airy feel.
So, if you’re in the market for a high-spec supermini that’s nice to drive, extremely sensible and starts at just £9,695, the Micra should be on your shopping list.
You can test-drive the new Nissan Micra at our Howards Motor Group’s Weston-super-Mare showroom. Call us today on 01934 332640 for more information or email us here.