For quite some time now the Nissan Micra has been something different in a segment where just about every other car looks the same … rip off their badges and you would never be able to tell them apart.
While looking different may good maybe it is possible to look a little too different and the old Nissan Micra always reminded me of something that Noddy might have been seen driving around in if green credentials had been important when I was a kid. But beauty is in the eye of the beholder and the old Micra did seem to sell quite well.
However that’s all history now because the new Nissan Micra is about to make it’s Australian debut and you could be forgiven for mistaking it for several of it’s competitors … at least in looks.
In price it’s certainly going to challenge some of it’s competitors because there aren’t many small cars that deliver 5.9L/100km, come with safety features such as Vehicle Dynamic Control, anti-lock brakes and six airbags all for $12,990 RRP. Of course dealer delivery and government charges will kick that price up but it’s still a good starting point.
Equipment levels
The new Nissan Micra comes in three equipment levels …ST, ST-L and Ti … and with either manual or automatic transmission. The Micra is also the first to secure a five star rating in the Green Vehicles Guide. Of course a rating like that does come at a price … not in dollars but in performance. If you want to be green and own a Micra then you’ll need to buy the 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol version.
The more powerful 1.5-litre four-cyclinder petrol version returns just 6.5L/100km for the manual version and 6.6L/100km for the automatic version and does put out a bit more greenhouse gas.Nissan claim that 98 percent of the new Micra will be recyclable
All models have Bluetooth connectivity, multifunction drive computer, airconditioning, remote entry, CD player with AUX MP3 input and tilt-adjustable steering column.
The top-of-the range model features the Nissan Intelligent Key, push-button engine start and stop, climate control, reversing sensors, 15-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights and handbag storage. If the front passenger seat is not being used the seat squab can be flicked forward to provide a storage area for loose items.
Safety equipment
The new Micra comes with all the good gear I mentioned above plus Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist on all models. The full suite of airbags is standard on all models too.
Design basis
The new Nissan Micra has been built on Nissan’s new global V-platform … a basic model that will be used in 160 different markets. Our version of the Micra will be built in Thailand … alongside the model being built for the Japanese market. Other plants in India, China and Mexico will build versions for other markets.
Pricing
pricing for the entry-level ST 1.2-litre model ranges from $12,990 to $14,990 while prices for the 1.5-litre ST-L and Ti models start at $14,990 for the ST-L manual and peak at $18,990 for the Ti automatic. All prices are recommended retail only and do not include statutory and dealer charges.