Review: Prototype 2017 Nissan Micra

A sneak preview shows that the forthcoming Micra is going to shake up the supermini market.

4 October 2016

Due next year, the new Nissan Micra is in the very final stages of prototyping. Occasionally, manufacturers allow the press to drive these cars – but it’s almost unheard of for them to also provide a couple of the cars they’ve been benchmarking.

Yet here we are, with a pair of Micras in 0.9-litre turbo and 1.5-litre diesel form – and, alongside them, a 0.9-litre Renault Clio and a 1.2-litre Volkswagen Polo.

Obviously, this isn’t an everyday group test. But with a good, varied driving route including rough and bumpy roads, fast corners and a yomp on the Spanish autopista, it taught us enough to draw some early conclusions.

Of the two rivals, the Clio felt sportier and the Polo more refined. In their company, both Micras rode and steered with ease and no drama, and changing gear was particularly satisfying. The diesel felt masterful, with plenty of smooth, strong pull from deep down and no evident weight penalty over the front wheels.

The 0.9 petrol wasn’t properly set up, as it turned out, which is no issue as prototypes are what they are. Nissan’s engineering man told us they expect it to be better than the Clio’s – which is an excellent unit, so we’re looking forward to seeing the results in final production form.

We can say the same about every aspect of the Micra, actually. Because this was a very impressive demonstration of what’s coming – and proof, to us, that Nissan is about to gain a serious presence in the supermini market.

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Review: Prototype 2017 Nissan Micra

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