PARIS MOTOR SHOW: Nissan unveils new Micra

Nissan has revealed the fifth generation Micra mini-car at the Paris motor show.

Revealed only as a hatchback, it is longer, wider, lower and has more interior space than its bubble-bodied predecessor recently axed from Nissan’s Australian line-up. But Nissan Australia isn’t saying whether this sharper looking Micra Gen5, which takes its look from the 2015 Sway concept, has a chance to stage a comeback locally.

“It is too soon to discuss future product plans at this time,” Nissan Australia spokesman Peter Fadeyev told motoring.com.au -- which is at least an indicator it’s not been ruled out.

The Micra Gen5 will initially come to market powered by a choice of 0.9-litre three-cylinder petrol engine and 1.5-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder, both making 73kW. A 54kW 1.0-litre petrol engine will follow later.

But in revealing the car, Nissan global boss Carlos Ghosn was placing more emphasis on the swag of safety features it possesses including Lane Departure Prevention (a claimed segment first), Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition, Intelligent Around View Monitor, Traffic Sign Recognition, High Beam Assist and Blind Spot Warning.

Nissan is also hyping a new sound system developed with BOSE which includes ‘ultra-near-field’ speakers located in the driver’s seat headrest.

Micra Gen5 comes with a seven-inch full colour central display, providing access to the audio system, satellite navigation, mobile phone, downloadable apps and Siri voice control via Apple CarPlay.

Personalisation is another Micra feature, with a slew exterior and interior options allowing for the creation 125 different variations.

Cabin comfort and quietness have been a focus of development. The driving positon is lower, the seat adjusts through a greater range and the steering wheel is fully adjustable.

Nissan claims an extended wheelbase means “cabin space is among the best in class”. It is also claiming a Cd of 0.29.

Nissan’s ride and handling aids, Active Ride Control and Active Trace Control, have also trickled down to Micra form the Qashqai and X-Trail SUVs.

“When the first Micra appeared more than 30 years ago, it marked a revolution in the small hatchback segment and opened a new chapter for Nissan,” Ghosn said.

“The fifth generation Micra is just as revolutionary, and will raise expectations for what a hatchback can, and should, deliver to its customers.

“Following in the wheel tracks of distinctive cars like Qashqai and Juke, the latest Micra reinforces Nissan’s position as a leader in automotive design. It also shows our intent to compete right at the top of Europe’s B-segment market – the largest and most competitive B-segment market in the world,” the Nissan (and Renault) boss stated.