For This is the cheapest Micra, and cheap is exactly what a Micra should be. It's easy to drive, cheap to run and there's a decent amount of space inside.
Against The spec is just too basic – there's no air-con, driver's seat-height adjustment or split-folding rear seat. Micra trails some similarly priced rivals for ride, handling, refinement and interior quality.
Fine if you want basic transport for as little money as possible, but some rivals do the job better.
If you want basic transport at an affordable price, the Nissan Micra fits the bill. The light steering, tight turning circle and good visibility make it a very easy car to drive, and despite its teeny dimensions, there's a decent amount of space in the cabin. It's affordable to buy, and with high fuel economy and low emissions, it's cheap to run.
However, the Micra isn't up to muster in terms of ride, handling, refinement and interior quality. This wouldn't be such a problem if it weren't for rivals such as the Hyundai i20 and Suzuki Swift, which are similarly priced and give you more talent for your money.
The 79bhp and super-economical 97bhp 1.2-litre petrol engines are available in three trims. Visia cars are too basic and Tekna models are too expensive, so we'd recommend mid-spec Acenta trim, which gives you alloys and climate and cruise controls at a reasonable price.
Test drove the new Micra as I was looking for a 5 door car to replace my Fiat 500. Overall it's a nice little car the gear changes didn't appear…