Overall Rating |  |
The original Micra was 'right' from the start; Nissan made few major changes during its ten-year run. It remains a top choice if you value cheap, practical, hassle-free motoring.
For
- More reliable than most rivals
- Roomy inside for such a small car
- Easy ownership, low running costs
Against
- Below-average safety and security
- Latest Micra makes this one look old
- Risk of buying an ex-driving school car
Road Test
Micra Mk 1's upright stance makes it one of the roomiest small cars. Unlike many 12-footers, it's a proper four-seater with comfortable seats and space for a small family's luggage. It's ahead in the comfort stakes and easy to drive; only body roll lets it down.
Never visually exciting, Micra's image is almost cute. Some men think it's too feminine; to reject it for that reason would be to miss some fine features. SR and Sport versions gave a half-hearted nod to 'go-faster' aspirations, but that's not Micra territory despite its willing 1.3 16v and 1.4 16v engines.
Quite simply, Micra gets you there. It's unfussy, good mannered, refined, very reliable and reasonably safe for an older design (post-1998 cars have airbags and optional ABS).
It's good value as a first car or runabout thanks to low insurance, 45mpg fuel economy and modest servicing requirements. A budget recommendation.
Need To Know
NCAP: 2
Best Models: 1.3 or 1.4; GX or later SE models
Worst Models: Low-spec 1.0 Shape and Equation
Replacement: by current Micra from Jan 2003
Alternatives
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Star Ratings
Handling  Comfort Quality & Reliability Performance Roominess Running Costs Value for Money Stereo/Sat Nav  |
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