Another small hatchback that make its world premiere at 2016 Paris Auto Show is 2017 Nissan Micra (March for some countries, including Indonesia). The latest generation of Micra tries to be more aggressive in its segment considering that small hatchback (B-segment) is one of competitive class in Europe. It has to face hard fighting from Citroen C3, Skoda Fabia, SEAT Ibiza, Kia Rio, Toyota Yaris, to Dacia Sandero.
The fifth generation Micra is inspired by a cool Nissan Sway Concept that made its global debut at 2015 Geneva Auto Show last year. The result isn’t disappointed. I think it’s the coolest Micra ever. Front, we can still see Sway element in its design. Moreover, the latest Micra comes up with Nissan’s design language which can be seen from V-Motion grille with chrome accent. Boomerang-shaped headlights are accompanied by LED Daytime Running Lights.
From side, Nissan’s designers give some interesting styling. Sculpted lines from front bumper flowing through wheel arches, doors, to rear bumper. Furthermore, you can find latest design trend in car industry, floating C-pillar. And the hidden rear door handle in C-pillar reminds me of crossover styling cues. And at the rear, Nissan keeps the bulging design at the luggage door. The taillights gets redesigned but still inspired from Sway Concept.
For the cabin, the car company gives more modern design and interestingly buyer can do personalize their own style with 125 variations. Moreover, the Japanese automaker has collaborated with Bose. The result is the all-new Micra features six-speaker Bose Personal. And there is a sound system that is optimized for driver with two Bose UltraNearfield speakers and combined with Bose PersonalSpace. Uniquely, the speakers are placed in driver seat headrest.
Another interesting feature is 7-inch touchscreen that will not only display audio and navigation, but also Apple CarPlay with Siri voice control. Talking about safety feature, seems like Nissan has no compromise with this compact car. Yeah, the carmaker gives a long list of safety stuffs such as, Lane Departure Prevention, a segment first, Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition, as well as Intelligent Around View Monitor, Traffic Sign Recognition, High Beam Assist and Blind Spot Warning.
New Micra is powered by petrol and diesel engines. Petrol, Nissan offers 0.9 liter turbocharged producing 90 hp. And for the diesel, buyer can choose 1.5 liter with 90 hp. The company announced that there’s a 1.0 liter naturally-aspirated producing 73 hp will join later.
2017 Nissan Micra will go on sale in March 2017 for European market.
Text: Andhika Pradityo
Photos: Nissan & Paris Motor Show
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