Nissan Micra Review (2003 to date)

Quick Summary

Go for a clean-looking Micra with a full service history from a reputable source and you shouldn't go wrong. It's still the perfect no-hassle starter car and runabout.

Overall:

Models Covered:Third generation 2003- to date: 3/5dr supermini [1.0,1.2, 1.4, 1.6 petrol 1.5 diesel (E, Initia, Urbis, Visia, Acenta, SE, Spirita, SX, Activ, Sport, Tenka, SVE,SR, XS, Urbis, Extras, Sport+, Sport SR, Essenza, 160SR, Active Luxury, C+C)]

SMALL WONDER

It's sometimes a little frightening how quickly state of the art becomes state of the ark. Back in 1993 Nissan's Micra wowed the automotive world with its cutesy shape and endearing driving characteristics but within a few years it had been soundly overtaken, soldiering on until it was replaced by an all-new model in 2003. This was similarly well received and for a while the press couldn't get enough of the Micra. Nissan had better not leave it ten years until this model gets replaced, however, as the pace of development has quickened significantly. Although the 2003 model Micra is no longer a front page story, it remains one of the more attractive superminis around. With used examples now becoming more widely available, the Micra represents an affordable way to own a modern and attractive supermini.
Used Nissan Micra for sale

History of the Micra

When it debuted at the 2002 Birmingham Show, few could believe the Micra was a production ready car. The styling was just too reminiscent of a designer's fantasy. Surely when it appeared in showrooms the detailing would be watered down on cost grounds? Fortunately Nissan stuck to their guns and the Micra was as bold as it had first appeared. Four engines were initially available with two body styles – three or five door hatch. The petrol engines comprised a 64bhp 1.0-litre, a 79bhp 1.2, and an 87bhp 1.4-litre unit. There was also a 65bhp 1.5-litre DCi diesel, a unit shared with Renault with a more powerful 82bhp version 1.5-litre DCi following in September 2003. A sporting XS special edition model based on the S with the addition of 15" alloy wheels, a roof spoiler, body coloured electric door mirrors, exclusive dashboard trim and an aluminium gear knob mark appeared in February 2004.The Micra's first facelift arrived in the summer of 2005. At this time the 1.0-litre entry-level engine was axed and a 108bhp 1.6-litre engine was brought in to power the sporty SR model. The facelifted models are distinguishable from their predecessors by a grille with a longer horizontal silver bar in front of a honeycomb mesh. The grille-mounted indicators have clear lenses, there's a curvier front bumper with rubbing strips and an altered under bumper assembly. Improvements were also made in sound proofing and refinement. Shortly afterwards, the C+C convertible model when on sale.The Micra's trim levels were given a shake-up in mid 2006. From this time, the models were renamed Initia, Spirita, Activ and Sport. Only one diesel engine was offered – the dCi 86 and the 160SR performance model was shelved in favour of a modest 110bhp SR Sport replacement. The Active Luxury trim level arrived late in 2006 offering upgraded trim materials for fashion-conscious buyers at the top of the range. Substantial price cuts in the spring of 2007 saw the entry-level Initia come down by a massive £1,500 and other derivatives fall by at least £300. This helped bolster the Micra's value proposition against newer and larger supermini rivals but didn't help the residual values of vehicles already sold.Revisions announced in September 2007 brought a revised chrome grille and wheeled the 160SR's sporty from bumper out to all but the entry-level models. The trim level names were tweaked yet again to Visia, Acenta, Acenta+, Tenka, Active Luxury and 160 SR. All models received an MP3 player connection socket.
Used Nissan Micra for sale

Nissan Micra Road Test

The driving position is good, although the steering wheel adjusts only for rake and not reach. Underconfident drivers will be relieved by the fact that the headlights are visible from the driver's seat, giving an easy width reference. Otherwise, the dashboard is a little more conventional than the wacky styling may lead you to believe, although the Bakelite-style 'ivory' control switches on the upper spec models are a neat touch, apparently designed to ape traditional Japanese ceramics. The Micra feels a good deal sharper than expected on the road, with an emphasis placed on driver enjoyment. The ride isn't bad for such a small car, although noise insulation isn't a strong point. Still, it's a car that can rapidly paint a big smile across your face and all the engines have something to be said for them, the 1.2-litre unit that most people will choose being capable of getting to 60mph in 13.9 seconds and averaging nearly 48mpg.
Used Nissan Micra for sale

Buying a Nissan Micra

Nothing to report here. The Micra always was a very reliable car and Nissan claim to have ironed out the recurrent problems of the previous model (seized brake calipers and worn constant velocity joints). Check for parking damage and ensure the car has a full Nissan service history and buy with confidence.
Used Nissan Micra for sale

Nissan Micra Typical Pricing

Prices open at around £3,275 for an 03 1.0-litre E with the 1.2-litre versions tacking another £400 onto that price. Expect to pay around £3,375 for the first of the '03 plate 1.4-litre cars in SE trim. The desirable 1.5-litre diesel models open at £3,600. Insurance for the Micra is very reasonable, starting at Group 2 for the 1.0-litre and 65bhp 1.5 DCi diesel cars and topping out at a very affordable Group 4 for the upper specification 1.4-litre 16v models.
Used Nissan Micra for sale

Nissan Micra Parts

(Approx. values for a 2003 1.4SX) A clutch assembly will be around £195 and front brake pads are around £45; it's around £40 for the rear set. An alternator should be close to £250 and a radiator around £175.
Used Nissan Micra for sale