Nissan Micra makes comeback as 254-mile EV for younger buyers

Sharing a platform with Renault’s 5 and Alpine’s A290, the new electric Micra represents a drastic departure from its predecessors. But can it rejuvenate the nameplate and appeal to a more youthful clientele?

Cast your mind back to 2023 and you might remember when Nissan teased something remarkable: a Micra that was, wait for it… cool. And here’s what the production-spec finished product looks like. Yep, the scissor doors, massively flared arches, and Apollo 17-esque cockpit, have all been chucked in the bin. But what did you expect? The 20-23 concept was just that: a figment of the imagination.

That said, certain elements of that lairy show car have made the final cut. The lights (both head and tail) have a similar slimline LED look — something which evokes the old car’s frog-like face. Overall, the styling is undeniably less controversial the fifth-gen Micra, though. Given it borrows the Ampr Small platform, the basic proportions are very similar to that of its French EV siblings. However, the Micra tries to differentiate itself with sporty 18-inch alloys, 14 vibrant exterior colour options, and a waistline which features what Nissan is calling, an “ice cream scoop” indent.

Interesting, but what else has the Micra been up to on its two-year sabbatical? It’s managed to devise a whole new propulsion system, for one. That means the Micra’s range of diminutive ICE powerplants has been swapped for more powerful and efficient all-electric options. More specifically, a choice of two battery packs (40 or 52kWh) are hooked up to a front-mounted motor. That means a range of 192 or 253 miles, and an output of 121 or 148 bhp. Oh, and don’t forget, unlike a petrol or diesel engine, that shove is available from the moment you stand on the accelerator.

The model’s newfound handling prowess will be equally alien to traditional Micra customers. Weighing just 1400 kg in entry-level guise, it’s one of the lightest EVs in its class. Combine that lack of mass with a premium-grade independent front / multi-link rear suspension, as well as versatile Hankook Ion EVO tyres, and Nissan’s “smiles guaranteed” strapline could be accurate. Believe it or not, there’s even a “sport” mode for when you want sharper throttle response and more steering feedback.

Fear not, though, the Micra hasn’t forgotten its roots in this pursuit of performance. Nissan openly admits that it’s still a car “destined for the urban jungle” at heart. To that end, there’s plenty of boot space (326 litres) for the weekly shopping run, and you can even drop the rear seats for the occasional IKEA trip. Moreover, a longer wheelbase means backseat passengers won’t feel squashed; both head and legroom are plentiful for such a modestly sized machine.

Speaking of the cabin, Nissan’s pulled out all the stops to make it feel noticeably plusher than before. “Simple, understated elegance” is the goal and — through the use of high-quality materials, decent standard tech, and adjustable ambient lighting — the new Micra does the business. There’s even a tasteful nod to Nissan’s heritage: a moulded outline of Japan’s most famous landmark, Mount Fuji, incorporated into the cubby between the front seats.

There’s a lot to like, then, but how does it stack up to its French siblings when it comes to price? We don’t know yet. That said, it’s likely the Micra will match the Renault’s £25,000 starting price. Sound good? Well keep your eyes peeled for when it lands in the UK later this year.

Can the new Micra finally appeal to younger audience? Let us know if you think it’s cool enough to tempt Gen Z buyers.