The base model S Micra priced at the much-advertised $9,998 does not look cheap by any means. You won’t find remote power door locks- as it takes an old fashioned key to lock and unlock and the windows are not power operated, but hand cranked- however all the important the stuff is there in terms of safety. Standard on the base Micra S ABS brakes, an AM/FM/CD player with an auxiliary input, a five-speed manual transmission, durable cloth upholstery and rear window wash wipe.
Upscale models offer niceties as four-speed automatic gearbox, Steering wheel mounted audio controls, cruise control, air conditioning, power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, rear window wiper w/washer, 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, AM/FM/CD/AUX-IN four speaker audio system Options include: Automatic transmission, pearl metallic paint, Convenience Package – 4.3” display with four-speaker audio system, USB connection for iPod interface and other compatible devices, rearview monitor.
The interior of the Nissan Micra is neat and well finished with an all black theme. Good quality hard plastics prevail at this price point and are matched with durable fabric covered seats front and rear. The dash is well executed with simple clear legible instruments, although the digital bar graph for the fuel level looks odd. A normal analogue fuel gauge would be more in keeping I think. Other controls are simply arranged and easy to use. The front seats are comfortable and driver and front passengers have plenty of room in all quarters.
The rear cabin is a little cramped for those passengers who are tall or on the large side although mercifully the two rear doors allow for easy access and exit. The hatchback cargo area is also tight, although the rear seats do fold for more cargo room.
On the road, the Nissan decision to give the Micra a decently sized 1. 6-liter engine pays off as the Nissan has lively acceleration and pickup. Around town and on the highways – the Nissan never feels breathless and weak on power. The five-speed manual transmission on the base model I tested is also a good performer with slick precise gear changes and nice easy clutch action.
The Nissan Micra’s steering is also well balanced and responsive, although the cars small wheelbase mean you do feel the odd rough roads and bumps coming through from the stiff suspension. Resources Canada rate the Micra’s fuel economy at (L/100 km) 6.6/8.8/7.7 highway/city/ combined.
All in all, I found the Nissan Micra in its base form to be a hugely enjoyable car to drive with its nippy acceleration, simple common sense controls, responsive engine and a complete lack of pretension. The Nissan Micra is hard to beat on both price and quality. Highly recommended.
2015 Nissan Micra base priced from $9,998 to $16,733.
