Nissan Micra Review

Nissan Micra 1.5 DCi SX

How It Drove - Performance

The Nissan Micra dCi is powered by a 1.5 litre common rail diesel engine which produces 82 PS enabling the Micra to accelerate from 0-62mph in 12.9 seconds and continue to a top speed of 104 mph.

The Renault sourced engine is responsive and acceleration felt brisk. 12.9 seconds is quoted for the 0-62mph sprint but in practice it felt quicker. When driving the car we found it difficult to tell it was a diesel - the engine is fantastic. The 5-speed manual gearbox is easy to use and offers short and seamless changes.

It may be classed as a supermini but you don't find yourself frustrated by wanting more power as the diesel Micra makes excellent progress under all driving conditions. Around town it is nippy and easy to drive and on 'A' and 'B' roads it keeps up with the flow of traffic well. On the Motorway it is happy to cruise at 70 mph.

Fuel economy is excellent we saw 72 mpg at one point according to the trip computer and on average we returned approximately 60 mpg.

How It Drove - Ride/Handling

Nissan's design brief was to make the new Micra 'easy and fun to drive' and they have succeeded admirably. The advanced new chassis offers a comfortable yet supple ride with excellent roadholding ability. All diesel models are fitted with 15-inch wheels and 175/60 profile tyres further improving grip. However, if pushed hard the car will become unsettled and understeer which is only to be expected. Having said that the Micra is not a sports car and under normal driving conditions its ride and handling does not disappoint.

Electric speed sensitive power steering is standard across the Micra range which is well weighted and offers greater assistance at lower speeds for ease of manoeuvring and parking. This also contributes towards the superb economy figures as there is no need for an hydraulic pump.

ABS (anti-lock brake system) with EBD (electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and Brake Assist is standard throughout the Micra range.

Nissan Micra