By Declan Glynn
After a noticeable absence from showrooms, the Nissan Micra is back – reborn as a fully-electric urban hatchback for a new generation. The Micra Electric takes things to a new level, combining the car’s long-standing reputation for practicality and affordability with intuitive technology to make it the smart choice for everyday drivers making the switch to electric driving.
Design-Conscious Appeal
The new Micra’s subtle SUV-inspired proportions provide it with a robust stance and a modern-retro look. Featuring eye-catching LED headlamps within circular LED daytime running lights, an iconic rear lighting signature, and sporty 18-inch wheels, it is a design that successfully balances form and function.
Trim & Battery Options
There are three trim grades to choose from: Engage, Advance and Evolve. The entry-level Engage model has a 40kWh battery with a WLTP range of up to 317km on a combined driving cycle. Mid-spec Advance trim comes with the option of a 40kWh or 52kWh battery, while the top-spec Evolve model is only available with the 52kWh battery, which increases the achievable range to 416km. Both variants support DC fast charging up to 80kW and 110kW respectively, enabling a 15% to 80% charge to be completed in as little as 30 minutes. Alternatively, a 10% to 80% charge via an 11kW domestic wallbox charger can be achieved in as little as 3.45 hours. With NissanConnect powered by Google built-in occupants can enjoy services like Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play.
Car on Review
My review car was a Micra Electric (52kWh) in Evolve trim, and it looked terrific in its Authentic Blue metallic paintwork with a contrasting Mystery Black metallic roof. The cabin features a clean, uncluttered layout centred around a dual 10.1-inch screen setup with built-in Google services. The Micra’s slightly elevated driving position gives a clear, crossover-like view of the road ahead, and overall cabin comfort is excellent, with soft-touch finishes, padded fabrics, and distinctively patterned seat upholstery providing an upmarket look and feel. On the road, the new Micra is a genuinely enjoyable companion, and the driving experience can be summed up in three words: Nimble, Fun, and Refined. The electric motor is located on the front axle, and it produces 150hp (148bhp) and 245Nm of instant torque, resulting in a 0-100km/h sprint time of 8.0-seconds. The car feels responsive and agile at all times, and it feels planted and secure too, inspiring confidence whether navigating challenging urban streets, enjoying a spirited drive on country roads, or cruising on a motorway. One-pedal driving can be selected via paddles mounted behind the steering wheel, with multiple regenerative braking levels available, and this is perfectly suited to stop-start city driving.
Conclusion & Price
The all-new Nissan Micra Electric is highly-commendable in every way – from its striking exterior design to its refined driving manners, and everything in between. Pricing starts from just €25,995 (ex-delivery), with my test car specification priced from €32,995 (ex-delivery).
