Nissan has officially pulled the wraps off the all-new Micra, and it’s not just another facelift, it’s a full-blown reinvention. Sharing its DNA with the much-hyped Renault 5, this next-generation supermini ditches petrol power entirely, going all-electric in a bid to reclaim its crown as the people’s champion. But can it really outshine its French cousin?
Retro-Futuristic Design That Nails the Brief
Gone is the safe, bubbly Micra of old. In its place stands a car that blends retro charm with cutting-edge EV aesthetics. The silhouette is unmistakably modern, with a short bonnet, cab-forward stance, and pixel-inspired LED lighting that gives it a distinctive nighttime signature. The hidden rear door handles and floating roof add a premium touch, while the overall proportions stay true to the supermini formula – compact, but packing serious style.
Inside, Nissan has taken notes from the Renault 5’s playbook, offering a minimalist yet tech-savvy cabin. A large central touchscreen dominates the dashboard, flanked by just enough physical buttons to keep things user-friendly. The materials mix sustainable fabrics with soft-touch plastics, proving that affordable doesn’t have to mean cheap.
Electric Performance for the Real World
Under the skin, the Micra shares its CMF-B EV platform with the Renault 5, meaning similar specs, but with Nissan’s own twist. Expect:
- A single-motor setup producing around 134bhp, perfect for city dashes and the occasional B-road blast
- A 52kWh battery delivering 250 miles of range (WLTP), making it ideal for urban commuters
- 100kW fast charging, allowing 15-80% top-ups in under 30 minutes
It won’t rewrite the performance rulebook, but that’s not the point. This is an EV designed for practicality, not track days.
Why This Micra Matters More Than Ever
The original Micra was the quintessential learner car, simple, reliable, and affordable. The new electric version keeps that spirit alive while embracing the future. It’s positioned to be:
- The perfect first EV for new drivers, with compact dimensions and easy-to-use tech
- A genuine urban runabout, with enough range for week-long commutes
- A style statement in a segment often dominated by bland econoboxes
With the Renault 5 getting all the headlines, Nissan’s take could be the dark horse – offering the same fundamentals but with a slightly edgier design and (likely) sharper pricing.
The Big Question: Price & Competition
Nissan hasn’t confirmed final pricing yet, but if it lands close to the Renault 5’s £25,000-£30,000 bracket, it could be a winner. The real challenge? Standing out in a suddenly crowded market. The Micra will face stiff competition from:
- Renault 5 (its platform twin, oozing retro charm)
- VW ID.2 (promising Golf-like space for supermini money)
- Fiat 500e (the style icon of the small EV world)
The Verdict: A Micra Worth Getting Excited About
The new Micra isn’t just another electric supermini, it’s a statement that Nissan still knows how to make small cars matter. With sharp styling, sensible range, and the promise of affordability, it could be the EV that brings electric motoring to the masses.
Production kicks off in 2025, with first deliveries expected by early 2026. For those waiting for a no-compromise small EV, the Micra might just be worth the wait.
One thing’s certain – the electric supermini wars just got interesting.
