Nissan’s new Micra (dubbed the ‘Gen5’), unveiled at the 2016 Paris Motor Show, is aimed at the European market as opposed to its predecessor, which was designed to have global appeal.

The Micra Gen5 is lower, wider and longer with more interior space. It also has new downsized turbo drivetrains, an agile chassis and a full complement of innovative safety features, says Nissan.

“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. The fifth generation Micra is just as revolutionary, and will raise expectations for what a hatchback can, and should, deliver to its customers,” said Carlos Ghosn, CEO, Nissan Motor Company, “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.”

Remaining faithful to the Sway Concept unveiled at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, the Micra Gen5 embodies Nissan’s latest design language with signature design cues, including the V-motion grille, boomerang-shaped lights and the floating roof.

Other features include concealed rear door handles and an extended roofline that incorporates a spoiler for improved aerodynamic performance and a sportier aesthetic.

Much attention has been paid to driver comfort, with a lower driving position for a more secure driving feel. It’s easy for all drivers to achieve the perfect driving position thanks to greater seat adjustment, the fully adjustable steering wheel and the optimal positioning of the pedals and shift lever. The car’s extended width and wheelbase means cabin space is among the best in class. The gliding-wing shaped dashboard gives the cabin a light, sleek and spacious impression.

The Micra Gen5 is the first in Nissan’s B-segment line-up to offer such an extensive set of advanced safety features usually only found in larger cars. These include:

• Lane Departure Prevention
• Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition
• Intelligent Around View Monitor
• Traffic Sign Recognition
• High Beam Assist
• Blind Spot Warning

Together, these advanced safety features form the building blocks for Autonomous Driving, says Nissan, and they are an integral part of Nissan Intelligent Mobility.

The Micra Gen5 comes with a 7-inch full colour central display, providing access to the audio system, satellite navigation, mobile phone, downloadable apps and Siri voice control via Apple CarPlay.

At launch, power will come from either a 0.9-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine or a 1.5-litre diesel, both developing 90hp. The range will be joined soon after by a naturally aspirated 73hp 1.0-litre petrol engine. 

The new Nissan Micra will be built in Europe at the Renault plant in Flins, France, as part of the Renault Nissan Alliance. Sales in Europe will start from March 2017.