Nissan is reviving the Micra name in Europe with a new electric hatchback that shares its foundation with the Renault 5 E-Tech. While the overall shape of the Micra is similar to its Renault counterpart, it boasts distinct design elements such as circular headlights and taillights, as well as unique bumper treatments.
Design and Features
The Micra’s front fascia is unique, featuring interesting headlights with a main rectangular element flanked by rounded LEDs above and below, paying homage to the circular lights of past Micras. All Micra EVs come equipped with 18-inch wheels, and the lower portion of the bodywork is accentuated with gloss-black trim. The taillights are circular, with a small protrusion that gives them an upside-down ‘Q’ appearance. Buyers have the option to choose a two-tone color scheme, pairing the body color with a gray roof.
Inside, the cabin bears a strong resemblance to the Renault 5 E-Tech, featuring a 10.1-inch center touchscreen angled towards the driver and paired with a 10.1-inch digital gauge cluster. The dashboard design includes canted central HVAC vents and climate controls, while the passenger-side dashboard features stitched indentations that create a unique visual effect under ambient lighting. A molded outline of Mount Fuji in the storage compartment between the front seats adds a touch of Nissan’s heritage.
Powertrain and Charging
The new Micra is available with two battery options: a 40-kWh unit and a 52-kWh pack. Both configurations feature a single electric motor on the front axle. The smaller battery produces 121 horsepower and offers a claimed range of 191 miles. The larger battery boosts output to 148 hp and extends the range to 253 miles. The bigger battery also enables faster charging at up to 100 kW on DC fast-chargers. Additionally, the Micra supports vehicle-to-load capability, allowing it to power other electronic devices.
Market Context
The new Micra measures less than 157 inches in length, making it at least 20 inches shorter than the subcompact Versa sedan. This compact size, combined with the declining popularity of hatchbacks in the U.S. market, makes it unlikely for the Micra to be sold in the United States. Nissan is shifting its focus in the U.S. market towards SUVs, with plans to retire the Versa and Altima sedans after 2025 and transform the Leaf hatchback into a crossover for 2026. However, the Micra demonstrates that small cars still have a place in European markets, particularly on tight city streets.
