Nissan Micra Hatchback (03-10) - Review

The interior is exceptionally roomy and the tall shape means there's loads of headroom, although taller adult passengers may find the back a little bit of a squeeze. Legroom is adequate in both the front seats, while rear space is not bad considering the Micras small dimensions plus the cabin feels light and airy overall. Most of the engines are refined under normal driving conditions, although the 160SR is noisier than others when it's pushed (although it's not an unpleasant sound). Road rumble is kept low, although there can be some wind noise at speed.

The boot is far from cavernous but it has a wide opening and can cope with a weekly shop. With 251 litres of space it's smaller than alternatives like the Vauxhall Corsa and Peugeot 207 but on the plus side, the rear seats slide by 200mm to provide extra boot space (although rear legroom disappears as a result) and they split and fold too, allowing you to carry bulkier items. Up front there are loads of little cubby holes and cleverly, the base of the front passenger seats folds upwards to reveal a nifty storage box.

The dashboard is clear, logical and attractive. All the main controls are grouped in the centre of the dash and are easy to reach. Top models get Bakelite-style ivory-coloured switches (see 'interior details' in the gallery), which brings a touch of chic to an otherwise standard interior. It's easy to find a comfortable driving position, thanks to an adjustable steering wheel and driver's seat. Drivers who travel longer distances may find that the seats are a little flat, fidget-inducing and don't offer enough support. With the exception of Visia spec, all models from late 2007 have an audible speed limit warning - a bleep sounds when you've reached a pre-set limit.