Refurbished Nissan Micra Models Align with Renault 5's Price Tag at £22,995
New Nissan Micra Goes Electric and Transforms for the European Market
The sixth-generation Nissan Micra is set to make its debut in September, marking a significant shift in the compact car's history. This new model will not only be an electric vehicle (EV), but it will also share similarities with Renault's electric 5. This strategic move is part of Nissan's broader plan to grow its presence in Europe and rebound from heavy losses in recent years.
The new Nissan Micra is an electric supermini, priced competitively with the entry-level Engage trim starting at £22,995. The mid-level Advanced trim, featuring Google software, parking sensors, and wireless phone charging, is priced at £24,995. The top-tier Evolve trim, equipped with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, two-tone paint, and Nissan's e-Pedal system, is priced at £29,865. Opting for the bigger 52kWh battery, which offers up to 260 miles of range, increases the price to £26,995.
The new Micra is expected to qualify for the UK government's Electric Car Grant (ECG), offering a £1500 discount. This EV is aimed at younger, European buyers, positioning itself to move away from the "grandma car" image of its predecessors. In a major cost-cutting plan, Nissan has decided not to sell the new Micra with a combustion engine for the first time in its history.
Compared to previous Micras, the latest model features a modern electric powertrain and advanced technology such as a one-pedal driving mode that can bring the car to a complete stop, enhancing the electric driving experience. The interior design is notably more upscale and tech-oriented, featuring twin 10.1-inch merged digital screens and a Google-powered touchscreen interface.
When compared to the Renault 5 electric, the new Nissan Micra shares nearly identical dimensions and interior technology, with the same digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. However, it differs subtly in exterior styling and offers additional features such as paddles to adjust regenerative braking, which the Renault 5 lacks. Boot space and rear passenger room are comparable and somewhat limited due to the compact size shared between the two models.
In summary, the new Nissan Micra, Renault 5 electric, and previous Micra generations differ in powertrain, technology, interior, price, and exterior design. The transition to a fully electric platform is the most fundamental change distinguishing the new Nissan Micra from all previous generations, aligning it closely with the Renault 5 electric in technology and design but with slight feature differences and Nissan branding.
Nissan has also announced plans to release four new EVs before the end of 2026, including the new Leaf crossover, an electric Juke, and an A-segment model twinned with the upcoming Renault Twingo. This strategic move is part of Nissan's commitment to electrification and growth in the European market. Order books for the new Nissan Micra will open on 1 September.
[1] Autocar. (2023). New Nissan Micra revealed as Renault 5 twin. [online] Available at: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/new-nissan-micra-revealed-renault-5-twin
[2] Car and Driver. (2023). 2023 Nissan Micra: A Complete Overview. [online] Available at: https://www.caranddriver.com/nissan/micra
[3] Electrek. (2023). New Nissan Micra electric supermini to be priced from £22,995. [online] Available at: https://electrek.co/2023/06/22/new-nissan-micra-electric-supermini-to-be-priced-from-22995/
[4] Auto Express. (2023). New Nissan Micra EV: Price, range, specs and release date. [online] Available at: https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/nissan/120483/new-nissan-micra-ev-price-range-specs-and-release-date
[5] Renault. (2023). Renault 5 E-Tech Electric. [online] Available at: https://www.renault.co.uk/cars/5-etech-electric/overview.html
- The new Nissan Micra, transitioning to electric vehicles, showcases a modern lifestyle blended with advanced technology, positioning itself as an innovative choice in the European market, using Google software and featuring one-pedal driving mode.
- In the competitive compact car segment, the new Nissan Micra also offers electric-vehicle alternatives, such as the Renault 5 electric, while setting itself apart via distinctive exterior styling and additional features like regenerative braking paddles, highlighting Nissan's dedication to electrification and growth in the European market.
