Nissan’s Micra Gen5, unveiled at the 2016 Paris Motor Show, is a complete transformation of the Micra that we know of today. Targeted for Europe, the world’s largest hatchback market, the Micra Gen5 has grown up to be a stunner. The all-new styling stays honest to the Sway Concept unveiled at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, and comes with a body length-defining character line. It is lower, wider and longer than its predecessors and has more interior space.
Other design cues include Nissan’s V-motion grille, boomerang-shaped lights, a floating roof, rear door handles hidden in the C-pillars and an extended roofline that incorporates a spoiler. The looks are accentuated by a selection of 10 exterior colours, including the Energy Orange you see in these images. Furthermore, additional exterior and interior personalisation options allow for the creation of 125 different variations of the new Micra.
As compared to its predecessor, the interiors get a lower driving position, greater seat adjustment, and a fully adjustable steering wheel. The car’s extended width and wheelbase means that cabin space is claimed to be among the best in class. The gliding-wing shaped dashboard has a full length, body coloured trim insert, along with a 7-inch full colour central display, providing access to the six-speaker Bose audio system, satellite navigation, mobile phone, downloadable apps and Siri voice control via Apple CarPlay.
The Micra Gen5 also offers an extensive set of safety features, available across all grades, that include Lane Departure Prevention, Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition, Intelligent Around View Monitor, Traffic Sign Recognition, High Beam Assist and Blind Spot Warning. Dynamic aids on the new Micra Gen5 include Active Ride Control for enhanced ride comfort, Active Trace Control for reduced understeer and sharper handling, along with a new brushless electric power steering system.
At launch, the car will offer the choice of a 0.9-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel, both developing 90hp. The range will be joined soon after by a naturally aspirated 73hp 1.0-litre petrol engine. The new Nissan Micra will be built in Europe at the Renault plant in Flins, France, as part of the Renault Nissan Alliance. Sales will start in Europe from March 2017.
