What's the news?
Nissan has taken the wraps off the all-new Micra in Paris and it hopes, doubtless, to amend for the deep disappointment which was the current, Indian-built Micra.
The fifth-generation Micra uses the same chassis as the Renault Clio, and boasts a new lineup of turbocharged 900cc and 1.0-litre petrol engines and a 1.5 diesel. "When the first Micra appeared more than 30 years ago, it marked a revolution in the small hatchback segment and opened a new chapter for Nissan. The fifth generation Micra is just as revolutionary, and will raise expectations for what a hatchback can, and should, deliver to its customers," said Carlos Ghosn, CEO, Nissan Motor Company. "Following in the wheel tracks of distinctive cars like Qashqai and Juke, the latest Micra reinforces Nissan's position as a leader in automotive design. It also shows our intent to compete right at the top of Europe's B-segment market - the largest and most competitive B-segment market in the world."
Based heavily on last years' Sway concept, the new Micra does away with the child-like curves of the old one and instead has a much sharper shape, with a new 'V-Motion' grille and a floating roof (and a c-pillar that's oddly reminiscent of the Opel Astra...).
Inside, the big wing-shaped dashboard gives a lick of greater sophistication to the Micra, while the driving position has been dropped down a bit for a more sporting feel. Sporting? A Micra? You'd better believe it... There's also Active Ride Control and Active Trace Control for more precise handling and less understeer.
On the practical front, Nissan says that the much wider and longer cabin now means that the Micra is amongst the best in class for interior space.
It's going to be available with a huge swathe of high-tech options too, including Lane Departure Prevention, a segment first, Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition, a first for Nissan vehicles in Europe, as well as Intelligent Around View Monitor, Traffic Sign Recognition, High Beam Assist and Blind Spot Warning.
Sales of the new Micra start next March.