Nissan Micra (93-02) - Review

Review by Parkers on
British-built Micra has 16-valve engines for good performance and reasonable refinement. Its tall body makes good use of interior space. Add in above-average reliability and fuel economy, plus the fact it's nice to drive, and Micra is a top used supermini choice. Revised models from 1998 are safer than the original, have standard power steering and are becoming more affordable. Latest generation cars from mid-2000 have uprated engines and feel livelier to drive.
4 out of 5

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3 out of 5

Performance

Micra has always had 16-valve units – quite a achievement for a small car in 1993. The 1.0, 1.3 and the more recent 1.4 offer outstanding fuel economy, reasonable refinement and all-round flexibility. 1.3 and 1.4 are better for a mixture of town and motorway driving and are brisker than the 1.0. Their durability shows up in service records: six-figure mileages are normal with proper care. And as there is a timing chain rather than a cam belt, there's no worry about belt breakage or replacement.

3 out of 5

Handling

The gear change is slick and handling is safe, but pre-1996 models suffer from body roll; anti-roll bars from 1996 onwards cured this. Steering can lack feel, especially on models with power assistance. Although nippy, and agile around town, the 1.0-litre Micra is a limited motorway performer, and the fairly tall body is affected by crosswinds.

  • Moving Exterior Nissan Micra (93-02)

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