Everyone, it seems, has a Nissan Micra story. After all, 40 million customers across the five previous generations can’t be wrong! Mine was that I learned to drive in a rather tired 1988 K10, first-generation five-door.
I wonder what my 17-year-old self would have made of the latest sixth-generation car? Well, I think I’d certainly be happier to be seen driving the new one! It looks sharp, but move closer and that shape and roofline are more Renault 5 E-Tech than Nissan. Despite some reticence from Nissan management at the launch to acknowledge this, this Micra is virtually identical to the Renault underneath.
Design and interior
More than a nose and tail job, all body panels have been changed below the wing mirrors. The work of Nissan’s design studio in London, the styling is supposed to be influenced by the blobby, K12 third-generation car. This is most obvious from the front, with the high-set circular headlights, and horizontal hood. At the side, there’s a new horizon line, called the ‘Gelato Scoop’ by Nissan, and the same chunky stance. Whilst at the back, the Micra design highlights are the circular rear lights, that mirror the design of the headlights.
Inside, arguably there’s even less differentiation between the Micra and Renault 5 E-Tech. Although Nissan was keen to talk about the ‘easter egg’ Mount Fuji graphic in the central storage between the seats, and the other on the boot trim, both supposed to show how proud this Micra is of its Japanese roots – we’re not convinced! Elsewhere, just the steering wheel badging, and different interior colours and trims differentiate from the Renault. However, like the 5, the Micra’s interior feels special. Highlights include the distinctive air vents, and the contrast-stitched panel on the passenger side – which draws your eyes away from the hard interior plastics, and the two 10in screens for the infotainment and instruments.
The driving position is excellent, with decent space. The tombstone-like seats echo those fitted in original 5s and are supportive, plus the blue faux-leather trim of our upper-level Evolve-spec car felt more Alpine A290 than 5 E-Tech. Sadly, like the 5, all the room in the front comes at the expense of rear space. Legroom is at best average – and the tallest rear passengers will find their heads brushing the textured roof lining. Elsewhere, there’s a deep 326-litre boot, although the high loading lip doesn’t help with practicality.
Performance and drive
Like the 5 E-Tech, the Micra is offered with two batteries – a 40kWh with an expected range of up to 198 miles, and a 52kWh, which has a WLTP range of 260 miles. The smaller battery comes with a 120hp motor, while the bigger battery comes with a 150hp motor. When it comes to charging, Micras benefit from 11kW AC charging as standard, with up to 100kW DC charging depending on the battery.
We spent our time in the 52kWh version, and like the 5, the comfortable and composed ride impresses first, thanks to the AmpR chassis architecture. Then there’s the precise steering – better than the Citroen E-C3’s, although it’s not quite as good as the electric version of our reigning Business Car of The Year, the Mini Cooper SE. There’s also some body roll, and sadly the Micra has inherited the 5’s fiddly handbrake setup. Still, the performance is sharp, and because dynamically there’s also no change from the Renault, the Micra is a tidy, fun drive.
Engage, Advance, and Evolve equipment grades are available. All are well equipped, and options such as the heated front seats, aren’t just reserved for the top version. Prices start at £22,995, the same as the Renault – with the Nissan having slightly more range, thanks to the Micra’s slightly sleeker styling. Ultimately, if the 5 E-Tech’s modern, retro styling doesn’t appeal, the Micra offers an appealing small EV package – it’s just a shame the Japanese makeover didn’t go further!
Positive: More range than the Renault 5 E-Tech, composed ride, fantastic value for money, fun to drive.
Negative: Styling not as appealing as the Renault, fiddly handbrake control, compromised rear legroom, high boot loading lip, not enough differentiation between the Micra and 5 E-Tech.
Standard equipment: 18in alloy wheels, dual 10in screens for driver information and infotainment, advanced ADAS systems.
Engines: Electric: 120hp, 150hp
Equipment grades: Engage, Advance, Evolve
Transmission: Single-speed auto
| Model | Nissan Micra 52kWh Evolve |
| P11D | £29,865 |
| Residual value | TBC |
| Depreciation | TBC |
| Fuel | £3,091 |
| Service, maintenance and repair | TBC |
| Cost per mile | TBC |
| Range | 260 miles |
| CO2 (BIK%) | 0g/km (3%) |
| BIK 20/40% a month | £15/£30 |
| Luggage capacity | 326 litres |
| Battery size/power | 52kWh/150hp |
| Score | 8/10 |
