Nissan Micra Returns to Italy as All-Electric City Car

The sixth-generation Nissan Micra has debuted on Italian roads, marking a significant shift for the iconic city car with a 100% electric powertrain. After a successful run of over 600,000 units sold in Italy since 1992, representing 42% of Nissan’s total sales in the country, the Micra is reimagined for a recent era of urban mobility.

A Legacy Reimagined

Nissan Micra boasts a history spanning over 40 years and 6 million units sold worldwide. The new model aims to build on this success by combining iconic design, driving pleasure, and advanced technology. The sixth generation is based on the AmpR Small platform, shared with the Renault 5, but distinguishes itself with a contemporary stylistic direction.

Exterior Design

The new Micra features soft surfaces and rounded shapes, differing from the Renault 5’s Eighties-inspired nostalgia. Design cues from the third-generation Micra are incorporated into the optical groups, creating a recognizable aesthetic. The car measures under 4 meters in length and 1.8 meters in width, with a 2.54-meter wheelbase, and is available with 18-inch wheels in various designs.

Available exterior colors include Glacier White, Elegant Silver, Black Star, Noble Marine, Authentic Blue, and Rebel Red, offering 11 combinations with a black roof option.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside, the Micra offers a higher perceived quality with a soft dashboard and seat upholstery. Ergonomics are enhanced with features like a drive mode selector on the steering wheel and a climate control system. The cockpit features dual 10.1-inch displays – one for instruments and one for infotainment – integrated with Google services, including Google Assistant, Maps, Play Store, and over-the-air updates. A subtle nod to the brand’s Japanese identity is the profile of Mount Fuji between the front seats.

The trunk offers 326 liters of storage space.

Driving Experience

Testing in Rome revealed the Micra’s suitability for urban environments. The car’s responsive electric motor, regenerative braking system (adjustable via steering wheel paddles), and driving modes contribute to a refined driving experience. The Micra’s agility is enhanced by its relatively low weight of around 1500 kilograms and a 10.3-meter turning diameter.

During testing in Rome, the Micra achieved an estimated consumption of 14.3 kWh/100 km over a 30 km distance, suggesting a weekly charging schedule for typical urban use.

Performance and Range

The Nissan Micra is available with two battery options: 40 kWh and 52 kWh. The 40 kWh version offers a power output of 90 kW, while the 52 kWh version delivers 110 kW. The larger battery provides a range of up to 416 km (258 miles) and allows for fast charging, adding up to 175 km (109 miles) of range in 15 minutes. Nissan offers an 8-year warranty on the battery.

Pricing and Trims

The new Nissan Micra starts at €29,500 in Italy. The Micra Engage trim begins at €29,500, featuring 18-inch steel wheels, a 10-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, LED headlights, and a Mode 3 charging cable. The Micra Advance trim, starting at €31,500, adds 18-inch alloy wheels, a rear camera with parking sensors, integrated Google functionalities, and wireless charging. The 40 kWh Advance model is priced at €31,500, while the 52 kWh Advance costs €34,400, and the Evolve trim with the 52 kWh battery is priced at €36,400.

Financing options are available, with a monthly payment of €299 with a 5.99% TAN and 7.16% TAEG, requiring an initial deposit of €5,180 over 48 months.