Standard Nissan Micra safety equipment includes dual front airbags, curtain and side airbags, as well as pre-tensioner seatbelts.

Active safety is reinforced with the fitment of Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) across all trims, which intervenes to cut power and even brakes individual wheels when sensors detect a loss in stability or grip.

In the official Euro NCAP safety tests the Micra achieved four stars – many competitor cars can boast five-star ratings.

In the city car class Nissan Micra practicality performs well against rivals. The Nissan has 265 litres of luggage room with the seats in place and when you fold them flat this increases to 1,132 litres of load-room.

It is bigger than the Suzuki Swift but pipped by the VW Polo and the class-leading Ford Fiesta.

The Micra has also got a lift-up cushion on the front passenger seat.