New Nissan Micra

New Nissan Micra – Launch drive

Cape Town was the setting for the 5th generation of one of the Japanese car maker’s successful products, the Nissan Micra. The weather did not play along however that was not to damper what was to be an exciting and fun media launch. Rain drenched the Cape, well the city does need the water. The vibe was jubilant, as we joined another group that had already done the launch drive; our group had a nice mix of new faces from various walks of life. The launch also coincided with the opening game of the soccer world cup in Russia, They had done a set stadium seating set up right next to the bar. We were stationed at the Waterfront Radisson Red Hotel, easily the funkiest decorated hotel I have stayed in, the staff, rooms, quite a chilled yet warm place.

About the Micra, the change is incredible to say the least, the design is bold and lines are sharp bearing its intent, the highlight is a line that runs from the bonnet to the shoulder line and ends at the rear taillight which is infused in the rear and side panel. The front wears the V motion Grilled synonymous with all most Nissan products lately. The headlights jointly mounted btw the bonnet, front bumper and side panel, with daytime running lights housed within. The side profile is highlighted by 17” alloys and the floating roof insert on the rear door panel, the clean approach with the door panel mounted higher is a lovely touch. The rear is just as bold with 370Z looking taillights, a centre mounted rear fog light sends a sporty message, and the roof spoiler is another rear profile highlight.

The Interior is well put together with some decent finishes,  a minimalist approach centre console is most notable, followed by the sports inspired flat bottom multi-function steering wheel, the material used on the seats is ultra-sports funky detail in black and dark grey. Its spacious and seats offer decent comfort for driver and passengers, worth noting is the driver’s seating position, low !

The overall look was met with much approval, it looks strikingly good. If you want something bolder you can spec your Micra with sports decals that add a more impactful look, not that’s it needs it, however it is not over the top but tastefully done.

The New Micra is powered 3 cylinder turbo charged one litre engine, this generates a healthy 66kw of power ,and an impressive 140nm of torque to get going. This is mated to a 5 speed manual gearbox that’s transfers power to the front wheels. The ride is solid with enough comfort to absorb bumps and ensure decent handling, the power plant ferries this body very well, 3 potters have a beautiful aura of delivery despite their size, and it is impressive. It picks up velocity quite smoothly. Connectivity is pivotal in the segment as the target market is the younger bracket of peeps who want cool gadgets, the Micra is equipped with Apple Car Play, pairing it while we were driving on the launch route proved user friendly, Bluetooth and USB are also available should one have other sources of music. Operating the multi-function steering can be daunting as 1st but eventually we were good.

The Micra comes standard with 6 airbags and most safety driving aids to ensure peace of mind.

This is a welcome change, we noted this in how most Nissan product looks and feels damn good , the Micra has our stamp of approval, living with it for the review period will reveal more on the consumption and other key factors, for now, it is utterly Proper.

Pricing .

Nissan Micra Visia:                          R233, 500

Nissan Micra Acenta:                      R257, 400

Nissan Micra Acenta Plus               R272, 400

Nissan Micra is covered by Nissan Assured and comes with a 6-year/150,000km warranty; a 3-year/90,000km service plan; and 24/7 roadside assistance.