Discover the Nissan Micra in 2023 - Safety Ratings, Reviews, Specs & Prices

Buying a first car can be a daunting task, but the Nissan Micra might just be the perfect choice for new drivers. With its affordable price, impressive features, and easy-to-drive nature, the Micra is a solid investment for those getting behind the wheel for the first time. Are you ready to discover why the Nissan Micra is considered a top choice for first-time car buyers? Let’s dive in.

Short Summary

• The Nissan Micra has been a popular choice in the Australian market since 1982, offering affordability and 4-star ANCAP safety rating.
• The fourth generation offers customizable features and specifications tailored to first-time car buyers, with engine choices ranging from 1.0L to 1.2L petrol engines and two transmission types.
• With its affordability, reliability & safety features, the Nissan Micra is an ideal car for first time drivers looking for their next purchase.

The Nissan Micra has a rich history dating back to its introduction in 1982. Originally known as the Datsun Micra, this compact hatchback has evolved through several generations to become the stylish and reliable vehicle it is today.

With its impressive safety ratings and features, the Micra has proven time and time again to be a good car in the Australian market. It has been a popular choice among first-time car buyers, thanks to its affordability and reputation for reliability.

The Japanese Manufacturer's Vision

Nissan, as a Japanese manufacturer, strives to enrich people’s lives and foster trust with its stakeholders. Their vision of empowering mobility beyond conventional boundaries is evident in the design and features of the Nissan Micra. By emphasizing safety, comfort, and convenience, Nissan has incorporated their vision into the Micra, making it one of the most competitive cars in its segment. Visit your local Nissan dealership to experience the Micra for yourself.

This commitment to customer satisfaction has influenced the automotive industry as a whole, leading to the emergence of more sophisticated driver-assist technologies and a greater focus on safety and comfort.

From Datsun Micra to Nissan March

The transition from the Datsun Micra to the Nissan March was a gradual process that took place in the early 2000s. As the Datsun brand was phased out, the Nissan March emerged as a more modern and stylish version of the Micra, with a focus on safety and technology.

This transition had a positive impact on the brand, as the Nissan March was seen as a more contemporary and attractive version of the Micra, helping elevate the brand’s image and making it a favored choice for customers.

Entering the Australian Market

The Nissan Micra first entered the Australian market from 1995 to 1997 and has since become a popular choice among first-time car buyers. With a price range of $9,680 to $17,930 for the Micra ST and Micra Ti models, the Micra offers affordability without compromising on safety.

The vehicle has been awarded a 4-star ANCAP safety rating and is equipped with safety assist technologies such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring, making it a good car in terms of safety.

The fourth-generation Nissan Micra, released in 2023, brought a host of new features and improvements that made it an even more attractive option for first-time car buyers. With a choice of trim levels, engine options, and transmission types, the Micra offers a level of customization that allows drivers to find the perfect fit for their needs.

Let’s take a closer look at these features and specifications to understand what makes the fourth-generation Nissan Micra stand out.

Trim Level Options

The fourth-generation Nissan Micra offers four trim levels to suit different preferences: Visia Limited Edition, Vibe, Acenta, and n-tec. Each trim level comes with its own set of features, from the entry-level Visia Limited Edition with standard air conditioning and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, to the top-of-the-line n-tec featuring rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, a rear-view camera, and a Bose audio system.

With these options, finding the perfect Micra to match your needs and budget becomes a breeze.

Engine Choices

The fourth-generation Nissan Micra offers two engine choices for European markets: a 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with 75 PS power output and 95 Nm torque, and a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with 90 PS power output and 110 Nm torque.

The 1.0-litre engine is more fuel efficient and has lower emissions, making it a more eco-friendly choice, while the 1.2-litre engine offers more power and torque for those who prefer a more engaging driving experience.

Transmission Types

When it comes to transmission options, the fourth-generation Nissan Micra offers both a 5-speed manual gearbox and Nissan’s all-new CVT transmission. The 5-speed manual gearbox provides a smooth and efficient driving experience for those who prefer to shift gears manually.

On the other hand, the CVT transmission offers a seamless driving experience with improved fuel efficiency compared to a traditional automatic transmission. The choice between the two transmission types ultimately comes down to personal preference and driving style.

The Nissan Micra is known for its performance and fuel efficiency, with its 1.2-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine providing outputs of 72 kW (98PS) and 142 Nm (105 lb-ft) of torque. This engine offers fuel efficiency with reduced CO2 emissions and a wide gear coverage, allowing for brisk acceleration while maintaining the economy of a 1.0-litre engine.

Let’s explore some of the key features that contribute to the Micra’s performance and fuel efficiency.

Front Wheel Drive System

The fourth-generation Nissan Micra features a front-wheel-drive system that provides excellent traction and stability on the road. This system, combined with the Micra’s lightweight design and agile handling, allows for a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.

The front-wheel drive system also contributes to the Micra’s impressive fuel efficiency, making it an economical choice for first-time car buyers.

Turning Circle Capabilities

One of the standout features of the Nissan Micra is its turning circle capabilities. With a turning circle of just 9 meters, the Micra offers exceptional maneuverability and agility, making it perfect for navigating tight spaces and executing sharp turns with ease.

This feature is particularly beneficial for new drivers who may be less experienced in maneuvering larger vehicles.

Fuel Efficiency Ratings

The fuel efficiency of the Nissan Micra is another aspect that makes it an ideal choice for first-time car buyers. With a fuel efficiency rating of 5.7L/100km for the manual transmission and 5.9L/100km for the CVT automatic transmission, the Micra offers an economical driving experience without sacrificing performance.

It’s important to note that these ratings may vary depending on driving conditions, but overall, the Micra stands out as a fuel-efficient choice in its class.

If safety is your priority for a first car, the Nissan Micra doesn't disappoint. It's been on the Australian market since late 2010 and boasts a commendable four-star ANCAP rating, following production changes in 2011 for the Australasian market.

ANCAP Safety Rating

ANCAP, or the Australian New Car Assessment Program, grades vehicle safety. The Micra earns a robust four stars, indicating strong passenger safety during collisions.

Key Safety Features

Standard features on the Micra include dual front and side airbags, head-protecting curtains, antilock brakes (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD), and electronic stability control (ESC). Add to this seat belt reminders, front seat belt pretensioners, and a three-point centre rear seat belt for added safety.

Occupant Protection Score

Earning a score of 31.11 out of 37, the Micra received a four-star rating for occupant protection. It held up well in individual crash tests, albeit with a slight risk of chest and foot injury.

Pedestrian Protection Assessment

On pedestrian protection, the Micra scored 21.01 out of 36, earning it an acceptable rating. It scored highly for pedestrian leg and child head protection but was found wanting in adult head protection.

The Micra's extensive range of safety features adds an extra layer of reassurance, helping new drivers feel more secure behind the wheel.

If you’re considering the Nissan Micra as your first car, you might also be interested in its sibling, the Renault Pulse. Both vehicles share the same platform and components but have distinct designs and market positioning.

Let’s take a closer look at the similarities and differences between the Nissan Micra and the Renault Pulse.

Shared Platform & Components

As mentioned earlier, the Nissan Micra and the Renault Pulse share the same platform and components, making them closely related in terms of their underlying structure and performance capabilities. This means that both vehicles offer similar driving experiences, with comparable handling, fuel efficiency, and overall performance.

The similarities between the two cars extend to their interior design as well. Both cars feature a roof.

Design Differences

While the Micra and Pulse share the same platform and components, they each have their own distinct design aesthetics. The Micra features a more sophisticated and rounded design, giving it a classic and timeless look.

Meanwhile, the Pulse has a sportier and more angular appearance, appealing to those seeking a more modern and aggressive design.

Market Positioning

In terms of market positioning, the Nissan Micra is often seen as an economical and dependable option, making it a popular choice for first-time car buyers. On the other hand, the Renault Pulse is positioned as a more stylish and up-to-date vehicle, with an emphasis on comfort and accessibility.

Both vehicles have their own unique selling points, and the decision between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities.

So, is the Nissan Micra a good first car? With its combination of affordability, ease of driving, reliability, and safety features, it’s easy to see why it’s often recommended for new drivers. But don’t just take our word for it, let’s explore these factors in more detail.

The Nissan Micra is an affordable option for first-time drivers. It’s not.

Affordability

One of the biggest factors when choosing a first car is affordability, and the Nissan Micra certainly delivers in this aspect. With a starting price of less than $10,000, the Micra offers an economical option for new drivers without compromising on performance or safety features.

In fact, the Micra is considered one of the most cost-effective vehicles in Canada.

Ease of Driving

New drivers will appreciate the Nissan Micra’s ease of driving, as it offers an agile, light, and precise driving experience. The front-wheel drive system provides excellent traction and stability on the road, while the Micra’s compact size makes it easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces.

Additionally, the Micra comes with steering wheel-mounted controls for added convenience while driving.

Reliability & Maintenance

The Nissan Micra is well-known for its reliability, with owners reporting minimal issues with the engine and a solid reputation for dependability. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine tasks, is essential to ensure the Micra’s longevity.

While some common issues have been reported with the Micra’s brakes, suspension, and electrical system, these issues are generally not major and can be addressed through proper maintenance.

How Driva Can Help You Finance Your Next Car Purchase

If you’ve decided that the Nissan Micra is the perfect first car for you, Driva can help you finance your purchase. As an online platform, Driva helps you find the most advantageous car loan options by comparing 30+ lender offers and selecting the one that best suits your profile.

With Driva, financing your Nissan Micra is a simple and secure process, allowing you to focus on enjoying your new vehicle stress-free.

In conclusion, the Nissan Micra is a fantastic option for first-time car buyers seeking an affordable, reliable, and easy-to-drive vehicle. With its impressive safety features, fuel efficiency, and performance capabilities, the Micra provides a well-rounded package that makes it an ideal choice for new drivers. Whether you’re looking for a stylish and modern vehicle like the Renault Pulse or a classic and timeless option like the Nissan Micra, both vehicles offer unique selling points that cater to different preferences. So, why wait? Start your journey with the Nissan Micra today and experience the freedom of the open road.

Nissan Micra WF20HTX

Why was the Nissan Micra discontinued?

Nissan Australia discontinued the Micra in 2016 due to declining sales, although there were plans to introduce a new-generation model in Europe.

The new model was expected to feature a range of advanced technologies, including a hybrid powertrain and autonomous driving capabilities.

Is Nissan Micra discontinued in Australia?

The Nissan Micra was discontinued in Australia in 2016 due to a slump in sales.

This was a surprise to many, as the Micra had been a popular car in the country for many years. It was known for its affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency.

What are the faults of the Nissan Micra?

The Nissan Micra is known to have issues with its transmission, brakes and engine. It also has reports of battery life issues and cabin noise complaints.

These faults can lead to expensive repairs and decreased vehicle performance.

What is the starting price of the Nissan Micra?

The Nissan Micra is a budget-friendly car, starting at less than $10,000.

What safety features does the Nissan Micra offer?

The Nissan Micra boasts an impressive array of safety features, such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, all contributing to its 4-star ANCAP safety rating.

These features make the Micra one of the safest cars on the market, and provide drivers with peace of mind when they are behind the wheel.