Nissan unveil all-new Micra

Nissan pulled the covers off its all-new fourth generation Nissan Micra at the 80th International Geneva Motor Show this week.

Boasting a new breakthrough design and impressive small-car engineering, the iconic city car is expected to create a whole new set of industry standards, thanks to its all-new versatile lightweight platform and Continuously Variable Transmission.

Since its launch in 1982, the Micra has consistently won praise and success, gaining a reputation as a reliable, stylish, accessible compact car enjoyed by consumers all over the world. Nissan hope the latest generation model will build on that success and appeal to even more European consumers.

New Design
The all-new Micra is slightly longer and marginally lower than the current model but despite this, still retains its compact dimensions.

The classic and iconic Micra shape is still visible but subtle enhancements have been made to the double-layer integrated grille and arched side window lines to improve the look of the car. A longer wheelbase has also allowed for a roomer interior and created a ‘wheels-at-each-corner’ stance.

All-new Engine and CVT
In Europe, two engine options will be available - both variations on Nissan’s all-new naturally aspirated HR12 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine. Inheriting its DNA from the HR16 4-cylinder engine which powers the Note and Qashqai, the new engine employs valve-timing control (VTC), boasts power rated at 59kW and world-class CO2 figures of just 115g/km.

In addition to the new engine, Nissan will also offer a supercharged 1.2-litre direct injection engine with a start-stop system fitted as standard in Europe. The start-stop system reduces CO2 emissions by 6% and the powerful engine boasts a performance output of 72kW (98PS) and 142Nm of torque.

Both engine options are available with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or Nissan’s all-new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The wide gear coverage enables the 1.2-litre engine to achieve the economy of a 1.0-litre as well as brisk acceleration.

Comfort, function and equipment
The all-new Micra boasts superb visibility and a class-topping turning circle of 4.5m. To keep up with its rivals, the new Micra will also be available with some key technological innovations which are designed to simplify day-to-day life for its owners.

Reversing sensors and a new ‘parking space measurement’ (PSM) device with three skill levels (amateur, normal and expert) - which is designed to help lessen the burden of parking in tight spaces - will feature in the latest model. The new Micra will also boast Nissan Connect (Nissan’s accessible touch-screen combined audio and satellite navigation system), glass roof, automatic wipers, speed sensitive volume on the audio, a push button start-stop system and a trip computer which supplies drivers with real time fuel economy information, cruising range and outside temperature. On the security side, the new car will also fitted with a speed-sensitive automatic door locking system.

Safety
Impact safety has been improved significantly on the new Micra thanks to its new versatile lightweight platform. The car is designed to absorb the forces of a frontal impact, thanks to the sophisticated crumple zones, while maintaining cabin integrity due to its highly reinforced body shell. In Europe, the Micra will be fitted with ABS, dual front airbags, curtain and side airbags, Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and pretensioner seatbelts as standard.

Simon Thomas, Nissan’s European Senior Vice President for Sales and Marketing, said: “The new Micra will continue to be the benchmark city car in Europe. Its appeal will be enhanced by its unique combination of compact exterior dimensions, with roomy interior, small and efficient engines, and user-friendly technology. Its continued icon status is destined to be reinforced in its fourth generation.”

Sales of the all-new Nissan Micra are excepted to start in Europe in the autumn.

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Donna Kelly

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