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It’s been 21 years since the Nissan Micra disappeared from Canada. Now it’s back with a new generation and its set to take on the sub-compact market.
The 2015 version of Micra has been exclusively tailored and fine-tuned for Canada. It’s not available in the U.S. although it’s sold in 160 countries worldwide.
At a starting price of $9,998, it is the most affordable new car you’ll find. Even the Chevy Spark, its closest rival in pricing, costs almost $2,000 more in base trim.
There are three trim levels for the Micra (S, SV and SR) and all three come with a 109-hp, 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, sourced from the Versa Note. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, or you can opt for a four-speed automatic.
The base S model with the manual gearbox is the one with the head-turning price, although Nissan predicts it will comprise only about 10 per cent of all Micras sold.
It offers few interior frills, with cloth seats, tilt steering, a four-speaker stereo system with CD and auxiliary jack, and a trip computer to keep track of your fuel consumption. But you’ll have to use some muscle to work the windows or adjust the mirrors and the four-way adjustable seats.
Opting for the automatic in the base model bumps the price to $13,298, but it also adds cruise control, audio controls in the steering wheel and air conditioning.
The most popular trim level will likely be the manual SV, which adds power windows and door locks, heated power mirrors, remote keyless entry, Bluetooth, and some exterior trim pieces, for $13,698 (add $1,000 for the automatic).
The SR adds some connectivity features, a 4.3-inch screen for the audio system with a rear-view camera, and mostly exterior cosmetic trim, including 16-inch alloy wheels (steel 15-inchers on all other models), topping out at $16,748 when opting for the automatic.
Admittedly, Nissan cut some corners to meet the low price point, but you’d have a tough time finding them from the driver’s seat.
Sure, there are no soft-touch materials, but the fit and finish of the textured plastic is above what you’d expect in this price range.
Although it’s small, the Micra is not tiny, and falls right in the middle of its competitors in interior volume, at 2,475 litres. I’m 6-feet tall and found the cockpit quite roomy and accommodating.
Agencies/Canadajournal
