Name: Nissan Micra Review
Item: Nissan Micra
Author: Gumtree.com

The Nissan Micra has been on the UK market since 1993, and in 2017 it received a much needed overhaul. The result is a superbly stylish supermini that offers reliability and practicality in abundance, with a fresh sporty look helps it stand out from the crowd. The interior may be a little bit cramped, but the use of space is cleverer than in previous models. An improved engine range arrived in 2019 to add to the Micra’s competitive edge in the market. Nissan’s small city car has transformed into a sleek contender, with all the power an everyday motor needs.

Visit the Nissan Hub for more details on the Micra’s trims and specs.

What we think about the Nissan Micra

Nissan has delivered a Micra that returns to form with a charming new exterior, diverse powertrain and the latest in advanced technology.

Pros

Stylish and contemporary design, inside and out

Very fuel-efficient

Improved and responsive handling

Cons

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Poor visibility through rear window

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Cramped back seating

Nissan’s 2019 update on the Micra brought a new engine range to the table. A 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol three-cylinder engine, producing 99bhp or 114bhp, depending on the spec, is the pick of the range. All Micras now have front-wheel drive, and there are six trims to choose from, starting with the entry-level Visia and going up to the Tekna. Compared to previous versions, the exterior is longer and wider, with a sporty look, and it’s packed with advanced tech.

Driving performance of the Nissan Micra

Our Driving Rating7 / 10

Nissan’s accomplished small car is as convenient and fun to drive as ever, with a focus on comfort that will appeal to its traditionally older demographic. Nissan has fitted the Micra with smaller wheels, which make short work of lumps and bumps, keeping the ride smooth. The handling is as reliable and light as ever, though it may take some getting used to at first. The 2019 upgrade added a sport version, the N-Sport, with a new automatic gearbox, smoothing out the rougher edges on the older model. A stylish and practical supermini, the Micra is ideal for an urban setting.

Safety and reliability of the Nissan Micra

Our Safety Rating7 / 10

Crash test ratings have varied throughout the Micra’s history – it scored four stars when it was tested by Euro NCAP in 2017. Despite this result, Nissan has packed it with the latest safety tech. Every model has six airbags and Isofix attachments in the front and rear seats. Electronic stability control and tyre-pressure monitoring systems come as standard, too. And Nissan goes even further, offering many advanced safety features as standard including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, so the car will apply the brakes if it detects an impending collision.

Under the bonnet of the Nissan Micra

Our Engine Rating7 / 10

The entry-level petrol engine is a non-turbocharged 1.0-litre, producing 71 bhp – a fuel-efficient engine trim, designed specifically for urban use. It will do 0-62mph in 16.4 seconds and has a top speed of 98 mph. If you’re looking for a bit more oomph, the turbocharged alternative offers 100 bhp and will eclipse 0-62mph in 10.9 seconds, with a top speed of 114mph. The one diesel option is a similarly powered1.5-litre, offering 90 bhp and doing 0-62 mph in around 11.9 seconds.

What you'll find in the Nissan Micra

Our Design Rating8 / 10

Nissan’s latest Micra design in 2017 took it from a dreary, outdated hatchback to a stylish and contemporary supermini. A body that’s longer by 174mm and wider by 78mm means it’s a little less timid looking. LED headlights flank its new aggressively designed bonnet – adding a dominant feel. Despite its growth spurt, the Micra is still one of the most agile vehicles for urban driving, while its boot space offers a surprisingly impressive 300 litres of cargo space.

Comfort and interiors in the Nissan Micra

Our Comfort Rating7 / 10

The Micra’s interior is packed with a range of affectionate touches from Nissan. The front seats are good quality, comfortable and adjustable with sturdy back support. Be aware of the blindspot lurking over your shoulder where that swooping roofline and craftily hidden rear door handle reduce your visibility – an issue that is compounded when opting for a higher spec model with tinted windows. Its back seats remain a little bit cramped, but its colourful interior cabin is distracting enough to make you feel at home.

What features you'll find in the Nissan Micra

Our Features Rating8 / 10

The first thing you’ll notice in the cabin is the range of user-friendly equipment on the steering wheel – a convenient and thoughtful touch. The dashboard is dominated by the 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system that now includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard – a welcome addition compared to its older versions. The dashboard buttons’ configuration is adjustable to your own preference, as you move up through the range of specs.

What fuel efficiency to expect from the Nissan Micra

Our Fuel Consumption Rating8 / 10

Nissan has produced a very fuel-efficient car, with even the thirstiest Micra offering more than 42 miles per gallon on average. The 1.5-litre diesel is certainly the most economical, capable of doing 52.3 mpg on average. The petrol range is less efficient, offering an average of between 42.2 mpg and 51.4 mpg, depending on the spec of the 100 bhp manual you choose. It’s also the greenest model, emitting 103 g/km of C02. The 71 bhp non-turbocharged 1.0-litre should deliver around 46.1 mpg.

Running costs of the Nissan Micra

Our Cost Rating7 / 10

Micras are traditionally inexpensive to run and maintain, which is partly what makes them such a popular choice for cities or occasional use. Nissan continues this tradition with the latest Micra by offering a three-year warranty or up to 60,000 miles driven, which includes recovery, a hotel and a rental car, just in case you’re left stranded. Historically, Micras are one of the most reliable cars on British roads, with little to no reported problems, which makes them an excellent used car alternative too.

Our verdict of the Nissan Micra

4 / 5 Gumtree rating

Superb handling, advanced tech and a new powertrain make the new Nissan Micra a big improvement on its past models, in every sense of the word.

Nissan Micra Review