The latest generation of the Nissan Micra supermini hatchback will go on sale here this April with prices starting from €16,650, writes Trish Whelan.
It will replace the current Micra and the Note.
First launched in 1983, Micra has 34 years of history and sales success in Europe and has seen huge levels of customer loyalty over its lifetime. More than seven million units have been sold worldwide since launch with more than 3.5 million of those in Europe.
Many Irish drivers have happy memories of learning to drive in a Micra and hold the car in high esteem.
Available only as a five-door model, the car is longer, lower and wider than before and has a longer wheelbase. It is the widest model in the B-hatchback segment and is among the lowest.
Three efficient engines will be available from launch are a 0.9 litre 90hp turbo petrol; a 1.0 naturally aspirated petrol with 73hp; and a 1.5 90hp 4-cylinder turbo diesel.
Five grades are offered to meet every customer’s budgets, XE, SV, SV Premium and SVE. Not all grades are available with all engines.
Every Micra comes with a two-tone interior and there are three different versions, one for XE, a second for SV and SVE, and a third for SVE. Leather trim is an option on SVE.
The entry level grade gets as standard, 15-inch steel wheels, LED daytime running lights, electric door mirrors with integrated turn signals, electric front windows, rear spoiler, Hill Start Assist, trip computer, manual air con, height adjustable driver’s seat, rake/reach adjustable steering wheel and a two-tone dashboard. The SV, expected to be the volume seller here, adds 16-inch alloys, 7-inch display audio system, cruise control, chrome interior door handles and gear shift surround, SV black and grey cloth trim. A spare tyre will also come as standard.
The new Note is manufactured at Flins in France at a plant operated by Nissan’s Alliance partner Renault. The Renault Clio and Zoe models are also built here. It is the first Nissan passenger car ever to be built at a Renault plant in Europe and returns Micra production to Europe after a break of seven years.
Benchmarked against key rivals in the B-hatchback segment, Nissan believes the all-new Micra meets, and exceeds, its targets.
James McCarthy, CEO, Nissan Ireland is pictured at this evening’s pre-launch event for motoring journalists held at Nissan Ireland. The car imported from the UK for the occasion, was a pre-production model.
