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It's the fifth generation Nissan Micra supermini and probably the most interesting looking of all since the Micra name came to life in the early eighties. This car represents a bit of a shift change from Nissan too, eschewing the previous model's cheap-and-cheerful approach for something that is far more appealing to the modern car buyer. It has more technology, eye-catching personalisation options and more space than before, along with loads of new safety systems. Can it finally take on the almighty Ford Fiesta?
What will its rivals be?
The small hatchback buyer is spoiled for choice and there are plenty of stars in the segment. The Ford Fiesta, Toyota Yaris, Volkswagen Polo, Renault Clio, Opel Corsa, Hyundai i20 and Skoda Fabia all out-sold the current Nissan Micra in 2016 and those are the cars Nissan must be targeting now. First impressions are that the 2017 car will be a completely different beast that can stand up to comparison with all of the above, certainly in design terms.
Any tech info?
Nissan is going big on safety technology, and the Micra will be available with Lane Departure Prevention, Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition, Intelligent Around View Monitor, Traffic Sign Recognition, High Beam Assist and Blind Spot Warning.
In terms of infotainment, some versions will have a seven-inch full colour central display, providing access to the audio system, satellite navigation, mobile phone, downloadable apps and Siri voice control via Apple CarPlay. And there's a bespoke new six-speaker Bose Personal sound system with two Bose UltraNearfield speakers combined with Bose PersonalSpace Virtual Audio Technology built into the driver seat headrest, along with new Bose Super65 speakers in each of the front doors and tweeters in each A-pillar.
What will the range be like?
With no official information as yet for the Irish market, we assume the new Micra will retain the current car's E, SV and SVE trim structure with pricing starting around the €16,000 mark. The current 1.2-litre petrol engine will be pensioned off to be replaced by a turbocharged 0.9-litre unit producing 90hp and a non-turbo 1.0-litre engine making 73hp as the entry-level option. Some markets also get a 1.5-litre diesel version, but it's unlikely that demand exists in Ireland for such a small diesel model.
Expectations?
We have high hopes for the new Nissan Micra. It looks fantastic, genuinely attractive - inside and out. The increased dimensions mean more space and the potential for a generous level of standard equipment is there. Low emissions are likely from the new engine line-up so all that remains to be seen is whether Nissan can inject some driving verve into its new supermini.