Nissan’s all-new Micra, unveiled at the Paris motor show, is being described as “revolutionary” by company bosses. It will aim to compete right at the top of Europe’s B-segment market – currently the largest and most competitive B-segment market in the world.
In the looks department, the car represents a complete departure from previous generation models. Heavily inspired by the Sway Concept unveiled at last year’s Geneva motor show, the fifth generation Micra incorporates Nissan’s latest design language with signature design cues such as the V-motion grille and boomerang-shaped lights.
Other features include rear door handles hidden in the C-pillars and an extended roofline that incorporates a spoiler. The designers say the combined roof and side spoiler has improved aerodynamics, helping the car to achieve a Cd of 0.29.
The new Micra is also lower (reduced by 69 mm to 1452 mm), wider (up 77 mm to 1742 mm) and longer (up by 170 mm to 3995 mm) than its predecessors and has more interior space.
Tech features on-board include Lane Departure Prevention, which is claimed to be a segment first. Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition, a first for Nissan vehicles in Europe, as well as Intelligent Around View Monitor, Traffic Sign Recognition, High Beam Assist and Blind Spot Warning all get added to the mix.
There are chassis changes too. Details include Active Ride Control for improved ride, and Active Trace Control for reduced understeer and better handling – features only available on the Qashqai and X-Trail until now. A new brushless electric power steering system is also available.
At launch, in terms of power, the car will offer the choice of a 0.9-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine and a 1.5-litre diesel, both developing 89 bhp.The range will be joined soon after by a naturally aspirated 69 bhp 1.0-litre petrol engine.
“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 Nissan CEO, Carlos Ghosn.
The new Micra will be built in Europe at the Renault plant in Flins, France. Sales will start in Europe from March 2017.
Source: Nissan
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