NEW FOR 2015:
– All-new model.
While there are plenty of affordable new cars on sale today, none is less expensive than the 2015 Nissan Micra. Not only is it officially Canada’s cheapest vehicle, it’s the only new car on sale today with an MSRP of less than $10,000.
Beyond replacing the Versa Sedan as the gateway to Nissan’s lineup, the Micra also makes a splash as it’s not sold south of the border. Incidentally, the Micra shares a lot in common with the Versa – although the Micra is considerably smaller on the outside, the two are built on Nissan’s V-Platform, feature the same engine, interior switchgear, and both are built at the same assembly plant in Mexico.
An undemanding vehicle, the Micra’s light steering and tight turning circle make it a doddle to drive in town. Out of town, its softly sprung ride adeptly soaks up weather-worn pavement, and in general the car has a more substantial feel than its cut-price rivals. Though the entry-level $9,998 car has crank windows and skips out on power locks and air conditioning, not all Micras are as spartanly equipped. The Micra can be had with Bluetooth, cruise control, a reverse camera, and a variety of exterior and interior customization accessories.
Although it may be Canada’s lowest-priced vehicle, the Micra is far from its least powerful. Its 109-hp 1.6-litre four cylinder ties the Versa Note and bests its closest-priced rivals. A five-speed manual is standard equipment. Like the GT-R and the 370Z, the Micra does without a CVT; instead it uses a simple but proven four-speed automatic.
The Micra might also be Canada’s most affordable way to go racing in a new vehicle — a brand new Micra Cup racer retails for just $19,998 and comes prepped for the track complete with roll cage.
The regular (street-legal) Micra is offered in three models: S, SV, and SR.
The S is, as you’d expect, basic. It comes with 15-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, spare tire, 60/40 split folding rear seat, four-way manual front seats, rear wiper with washer, 12-volt power outlet, trip computer, tilt steering column, front setback pockets, and a four-speaker AM/FM/CD player with aux-in jack.
Add the optional automatic, and you get air conditioning, cruise control, and silver accent trim on the shift knob and steering wheel, too.
The SV adds power heated exterior mirrors, body-colour mirrors and door handles, six-way manual driver’s seat with arm rest, cloth door trim, cargo cover, Bluetooth, power windows, power locks, keyless entry, steering wheel controls for audio and phone.
The SV Convenience package adds 4.3-inch display audio infotainment system with reverse camera and USB audio input.
The SR adds black-painted side-view mirrors, spoiler, chrome exhaust finisher, sport headlamps, side sills, front fog lights, 16-inch alloy wheels, sport fabric upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 4.3-inch display audio infotainment system with reverse camera and USB audio input.
