New Nissan Micra Review: It’s an EV… But Does It Still Have a Spark?
The Nissan Micra has always been one of Britain’s best-loved small cars, quietly winning hearts through simplicity, honesty and reliability. Now it returns for a sixth-generation reboot as a fully electric supermini sharing its platform with the Renault 5. I drove it at SMMT Test Day at Millbrook Proving Ground immediately after experiencing the original first-generation Micra (see my review in the previous issue or at BrownCarGuy.com), creating a fascinating comparison between analogue charm and digital sophistication.
Despite sharing its bones with the Renault 5, Nissan has successfully given the Micra its own personality. The circular front and rear lighting graphics subtly reference the K12 generation, while the sculpted bodywork and distinctive nose create a playful yet purposeful appearance. It looks modern without becoming gimmicky and stands out particularly in bright colours. From almost every angle it feels unmistakably Nissan rather than merely wearing a different badge.
The Micra measures just under four metres long, making it perfectly suited to town driving. Two battery options are available. The standard 40kWh version produces 120hp and offers up to 198 miles of WLTP range. The larger 52kWh model develops 150hp with up to 257 miles of range. Both support rapid charging, allowing a 15 to 80 per cent top-up in around thirty minutes. Pricing is particularly competitive, starting at £21,495 including the Electric Car Grant and rising to £26,115 for the better-equipped Evolve model. In a market where many electric cars still command intimidating price tags, the Micra feels reasonably attainable.
Inside, the cabin makes an immediate impression. Twin 10.1-inch displays dominate the dashboard, Google built-in services are integrated neatly, and wireless smartphone connectivity keeps everything familiar. Material quality is generally impressive, with attractive textures, thoughtful details and ambient lighting helping the interior feel more expensive than its price suggests. One amusing reminder of its French cousin is the presence of the oddly named Perso drive mode, sitting alongside Eco, Comfort and Sport.
Rear accommodation is the one obvious compromise. Sitting behind my own driving position, I found legroom too tight for a comfortable journey. Families with younger children should cope perfectly well, but taller adults will probably want to sample the rear seats before committing. The boot, meanwhile, offers sensible everyday practicality without pretending to be class-leading.
Out on Millbrook’s roads, the Micra genuinely surprised me. Too many electric cars feel technically brilliant yet emotionally distant, like expensive household appliances that happen to accelerate very quickly. The Micra is different. Steering response is sharp, the turning circle is excellent and the chassis feels eager to change direction. Body control is disciplined, grip levels are strong and, although genuine steering feel is limited, the weighting inspires confidence.
Context remains important. This is certainly not a miniature Nissan Z, nor is it trying to be. Instead, it delivers something arguably more valuable. It reminds you that a small hatchback can still be enjoyable. It feels compact around the driver, easy to position and surprisingly entertaining on a twisting road. Sport mode adds extra urgency, while the car never feels cumbersome despite carrying a sizeable battery beneath the floor.
The new Micra could easily have become little more than a badge-engineered Renault 5. Instead, Nissan has injected enough individuality to create a car with genuine character. Yes, rear space is limited and enthusiasts will inevitably miss the featherweight simplicity of earlier generations. Even so, this likeable little EV combines distinctive styling, useful range, strong value and enjoyable dynamics in one convincing package. Most importantly, it remembers that small cars should still make you smile. For buyers seeking an affordable electric hatch with genuine personality, the Micra deserves a place on every shortlist today.
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