We drive the new Nissan Micra
In June (2018) we attended the launch of Nissan’s 5th-generation Micra, and we loved much it has grown to appeal to those looking for a more modern and stylish hatch. But this week, we’ve had some more time to get to know it during our one-week test drive where we got to experience it in our day-to-day driving.
The new Nissan Micra takes a noticeable step up in terms of design, with extra length, width and height, as well as a chiselled exterior inline with its contemporary and premium intentions. It’s a significant progression, in fact it presents itself as a whole new car. This comes with a slightly more expensive price tag than the old Micra of course, but then there’s the Nissan Micra Active which takes the place of the more affordable option in the Nissan’s hatch range.
“Nissan’s contender in the Lower B hatchback segment, the Micra Active, will continue to be sold alongside the all-new Micra, which will make its mark in the Upper B hatchback segment,” says the automaker. “In South Africa, the Upper B hatchback segment represents approximately 15% of the passenger vehicle market, making it one of the most popular segments in the country.”
What we love about the new Nissan Micra
Smooth and direct gear changing
The Micra’s 5-speed manual transmission is an easy, fuss-free affair when it comes to changing gears. It’s pretty light and smooth too, which is great for city driving and stop-start traffic.
Performance meets efficiency
We found that there was adequate performance from the Micra for both city and highway driving. In the city the Micra is quirky and does a good job at maneuvering around traffic circles or while overtaking random taxis parked in the middle of the road! Out on the open road the Micra maintains a balanced and comfortable ride quality while its cabin feels well insulated to keep the gusts of Cape Town’s wind from pushing its way through the window frames.
This is all powered by its 0.9-litre, 3 cylinder turbopetrol engine which according to the onboard trip computer offered us an average fuel consumption of 7.1 litres/100 km.
Perfect parking
We love how easy it is to park in the new Micra. Its turning radius is a real treat in the city, and although Nissan has increased the Micra’s overall dimensions, this doesn’t compromise on how easy it is to fit into tight or tricky parking spots. It’s clutch, gearstick and steering wheel are also light enough to keep you from feeling exhausted after doing so!
Express yourself!
The Micra’s striking design had a number of fellow commuters turning heads and as a driver, you begin to feel as trendy as the car when you’re behind the wheel in its contemporary cabin. The Micra sets new standards in its segment thanks to its smart packaging, with a rake/reach-adjustable steering wheel as standard, and ample head and legroom, as well as uber comfy and supportive seating design.
Keeps you connected
A wide range of technologies have been designed to enhance the car’s comfort and safety, but also to keep you connected whenever you’re on the road. On the mid-range Acenta model, as well as the range-topping Acenta Plus, a 7-inch touch-screen colour display is standard and allows you to access: music, messages and maps through Apple CarPlay in addition to the MP3, USB and Bluetooth in the Visia model.
Safety systems
After a long day at work drivers will enjoy the new Micra’s driver-assist display, located in the speedometer display. Nissan has positioned it in such a way so as to minimise “eyes of the road” time, using a high-definition 5-inch Thin Film Transistor colour display to provide the driver with key information about the car and the journey. This is based on technology that Nissan developed for the Qashqai and X-Trail, and is controlled using dedicated steering wheel buttons.
As far as transformations go, the new Micra has to be right up there, with the likes of the Ford Fiesta Volkswagen Polo to compete with. We think consumers will enjoy its trendy design and easy-to-handle driving dynamics.
Also read: Car Review: The all-new Nissan Micra
Pricing
The new Nissan Micra is covered by Nissan Assured and comes with a 6-year/150,000km warranty; a 3-year/90,000km service plan; and 24/7 roadside assistance.
Nissan Micra Visia: R233, 500
Nissan Micra Acenta: R257, 400
Nissan Micra Acenta Plus R272, 400
Test drive one at your nearest Nissan Dealership or visit nissan.co.za for more information.