The fifth-generation 2017 Nissan Micra has been revealed at the Paris Motor Show.
THE NEW FIFTH-GENERATION Nissan Micra “is a complete redefinition of what Micra means,” Nissan said. According to the Japanese car maker, the new Micra, unveiled at the Paris Motor Show has been designed primarily for Europe, which is the world’s largest hatchback market.
“When the first Micra appeared more than 30 years ago, it marked a revolution in the small hatchback segment and opened a new chapter for Nissan. The fifth generation Micra is just as revolutionary, and will raise expectations for what a hatchback can, and should, deliver to its customers,” said Carlos Ghosn, CEO, Nissan Motor Company.
“Following in the wheel tracks of distinctive cars like Qashqai and Juke, the latest Micra reinforces Nissan’s position as a leader in automotive design. It also shows our intent to compete right at the top of Europe’s B-segment market – the largest and most competitive B-segment market in the world.”
The new Micra borrows heavily from the Sway Concept shown off last year at the Geneva Motor Show. It gets the signature V-motion grille, boomerang shaped lights and a floating roof. Rear door handles are hidden in the C-pillars. Buyers will be able to choose from 10 different colours and 125 different interior and exterior “personalization options”.
New Micra comes with a 7-inch full colour central display, providing access to the audio system, satellite navigation, mobile phone, downloadable apps and Siri voice control via Apple CarPlay.
As far as safety is concerned, the new Micra will be available with Lane Departure Prevention, Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition, as well as Intelligent Around View Monitor, Traffic Sign Recognition, High Beam Assist and Blind Spot Warning.
Nissan is throwing everything at the new Micra to improve its chances in the highly competitive small car market and take technologies from its bigger vehicles, including “Active Ride Control for enhanced ride comfort, and Active Trace Control for reduced understeer and sharper handling – combining driver enjoyment and reassurance – innovations only available on Nissan’s Qashqai and X-Trail until now. A new brushless electric power steering system – for greater steering feel and response – is also available”.
At launch, slated for March 2017 in Europe, the new Micra will offer a 0.9-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel. The range will be joined soon after by a naturally-aspirated 1.0-litre petrol engine.
Question: Will feature-packed small cars become the new battleground?
