Nissan Micra: an honest review of the compact hatchback with prices and test drive

Nissan Micra is one of the most recognizable subcompact hatchbacks on the market, which over the 40 years of its existence has gone from a modest city car to a stylish and technologically advanced vehicle. The latest, fifth generation of the model (since 2017) has radically changed the perception Micra: bright design, modern platform and economical engines made it competitive even against the background of more expensive European analogues.

But is it that good? Nissan Micra in practice? Is it worth considering in 2026, when the market is flooded with crossovers and electric cars? In this review, we will analyze all the key aspects of the model: from technical characteristics to real reviews from owners, compare it with its main competitors and answer the question of who this hatchback is really suitable for. And we’ll also reveal hidden flaws that dealers are silent about.

Design and exterior: why the Micra stands out from the competition

Fifth generation Nissan Micra (codename K14) was presented in 2016 at the Paris Motor Show, and mass production started in 2017. The main difference from previous versions is a radical change in style. Designers Nissan abandoned rounded shapes in favor of aggressive lines, a large V-shaped bumper and a “floating” roof, which visually makes the car lower and more dynamic.

Particularly notable are:

• 🔥 LED headlights with a company signature Nissan (in top trim levels) - they not only look stylish, but also provide excellent visibility at night.
• 🎨 Two-tone paint — an option that allows you to combine the roof and mirrors with the body (for example, black bottom + orange roof). This gives Micra individuality.
• 🚗 Short overhangs and high ground clearance (155 mm) - thanks to this, the car looks sporty, but at the same time does not “target” the bottom on uneven surfaces.

However, not everyone likes such a bold design. For example, some owners complain that the front bumper is too massive and the rear appears chopped off. In addition, the plastic covers on the bumpers in the basic versions look cheap. But in general - Micra clearly outperforms competitors like Hyundai i20 or Kia Rio in terms of memorable appearance.

Interior: cozy but cramped? We disassemble the Nissan Micra interior

Inside Nissan Micra meets a minimalist but functional interior. The finishing materials in the basic versions are typical for the class: hard plastic on the dashboard and doors, fabric seat upholstery. Top trim levels include soft inserts on the dashboard, leather steering wheel and heated front seats. Ergonomics are excellent: all buttons are at hand, and the multimedia system (even in the basic version) supports Apple CarPlay And Android Auto.

However, there are also disadvantages:

• 🪑 Rear seats - the main compromise. It can easily accommodate two adults, but it will be cramped for three. And if tall people are sitting in front, there is almost no legroom left.
• 📦 trunk volume 300 liters - less than Toyota Yaris (355 l) or Volkswagen Polo (351 l). For trips to the country or family vacations, you will have to fold the rear seats.
• 🔊 Shumka leaves much to be desired. At speeds above 90 km/h, you can hear the noise from the wheels and wind in the cabin (especially in versions with 17-inch wheels).

Of the pleasant little things - interior lighting with a choice of colors (in versions Tekna) and wireless charging for smartphone (optional). And also - a convenient location of cup holders and pockets for small items. But if a premium atmosphere is important to you, it’s better to take a closer look at Mazda 2 or Audi A1.

What interior colors are available for the Micra?

Depending on the configuration, the interior can be black, gray or with red/orange accents. In the top version Tekna Available in a combination of fabric and faux leather with contrast stitching.

Technical characteristics: engines, gearboxes and fuel consumption

Nissan Micra Available with three petrol engines (depending on market):

Engine model	Volume	Power	Gearbox	Flow (mixed)
HR12DE	1.2 l	73 hp	5MT/5AT	5.2–5.7 l/100 km
HR10DE	1.0 l (turbo)	90–100 hp	5MT/6AT	5.0–5.5 l/100 km
K9K (diesel)	1.5 l	90 hp	5MT	3.8–4.2 l/100 km

The most common on the Russian market naturally aspirated 1.2-liter engine (73 hp), which, paired with mechanics, shows quite decent dynamics for the city. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes about 13 seconds - not a record, but enough for city traffic jams. But turbocharged 1.0-liter engine (100 hp) is noticeably more lively, but is less common and requires higher quality fuel (not lower AI-95).

Regarding gearboxes:

• ⚙️ 5-speed manual — reliable, but with long gears. On the highway, the engine spins at high speeds, which increases consumption.
• 🔄 4-speed automatic (Jatco) - an outdated design that is “stupid” when switching and increases the engine’s appetite to 6.5 l/100 km.
• 🔝 CVT (Xtronic) — the best choice for a comfortable ride, but is available only in top trim levels.

Real fuel consumption (according to owner reviews):

• 🏙️ City: 6.5–7.5 l/100 km (1.2 MT), 7.5–8.5 l/100 km (1.2 AT).
• 🛣️ Highway: 4.5–5.0 l/100 km (at a speed of 90–110 km/h).
• ⛽ The 1.0 turbo engine consumes 0.5–1 liters more, but due to better traction at low speeds in the city it can be more economical.

⚠️ Attention: Owners Micra with a 4-speed automatic, they complain about jerking when changing gears, especially when cold. If you're considering an automatic transmission, be sure to test drive the car before purchasing!

Chassis and handling: how the Micra behaves on the road

Nissan Micra built on a platform CMF-B (same as Renault Clio And Dacia Sandero), which provides a good balance between comfort and handling. Front suspension - MacPherson struts, behind - semi-independent beam. The tuning is soft, but not “wobbly”: small irregularities are absorbed well, and there are no unpleasant breakdowns on large holes.

When cornering, the car behaves predictably, but not sportily. Due to the high body and short wheelbase (2525 mm), roll appears on sharp turns, and ESP sometimes responds too early. But the steering is informative, and the turning radius is only 4.8 meters — this is one of the best indicators in the class!

Among the features:

• ❄️ Winter riding: with studded tires Micra It handles confidently on snow, but on ice it’s better not to take risks - light rear-wheel drive (in versions with a motor HR12DE) can plant a “pig”.
• 🛣️ Stability on the track: At speeds above 120 km/h the car starts to “float”, so it is better to stick to 100–110 km/h.
• 🔧 Suspension reliability: struts and bushings last for 60–80 thousand km, but shock absorbers often “leak” after 50 thousand km (especially in Russian conditions).

Options and prices: how much does the Nissan Micra cost in 2026

On the Russian market Nissan Micra has not been officially sold since 2022, but the car is available on the secondary market and in parallel imports. Prices greatly depend on equipment and mileage:

Equipment	Engine	Box	Price (used, 2020–2022)
Visia (basic)	1.2 l (73 hp)	5MT	850 000 – 1 100 000 ₽
Acenta	1.2 l	5MT/4AT	1 100 000 – 1 350 000 ₽
Tekna (top)	1.0 l (turbo) / 1.2 l	6MT / CVT	1 400 000 – 1 700 000 ₽

What does the kit include:

• 🔘 Visia: air conditioning, 2 airbags, audio system with 4 speakers, 15" steel wheels.
• 🔘 Acenta: + climate control, cruise control, LED DRLs, 16" alloy wheels, multimedia with 7" touch screen.
• 🔘 Tekna: + rear view camera, parking sensors, leather steering wheel, dual-zone climate control system NissanConnect with navigation.

New Micra (via parallel import) will cost 1.8–2.2 million rubles, but here it is important to check the history of the car - many cars were brought without a full package of documents. Alternative - similar in class Hyundai i20 (from 1.3 million ₽) or Kia Rio X-Line (from 1.5 million ₽).

⚠️ Attention: When buying used Micra Be sure to check the service history! Many owners skimp on maintenance, and this leads to problems with the CVT and turbo engine. This is especially true for cars with a mileage of more than 80 thousand km.

Pros and cons of Nissan Micra: honest verdict

Let's sum it up: who is it suitable for? Nissan Micra, and who better 看to point towards competitors?

💡

Nissan Micra is an ideal choice for city driving thanks to its compact size, maneuverability and low fuel consumption. But it is not suitable for families or frequent trips to nature due to the cramped interior and small trunk.

Pros:

• ✅ Stylish design — one of the most beautiful cars in the class.
• ✅ Low cost of ownership: cheap maintenance, inexpensive spare parts (compared to VW Polo).
• ✅ Ease of operation — excellent visibility, small turning radius, parking in tight yards is not a problem.
• ✅ Reliability: with regular maintenance, engines and gearboxes last 200+ thousand km.

Cons:

• ❌ Tight back row - not for tall passengers.
• ❌ Noisy interior at speed.
• ❌ Weak motors in basic versions (73 hp is not enough for the highway).
• ❌ Outdated automatic transmission (4-speed automatic).

Micra ideal for:

• 👩 Young driverswho want a stylish and economical car.
• 👨💼 City dwellersfor whom parking and maneuverability are important.
• 🚗 Second car in the family for trips around the city.

Not suitable if:

• 👨👩👧 Need a family car (better Toyota Corolla or Skoda Rapid).
• 🛣️ Drive frequently on the highway (the motor “does not pull”, it is noisy).
• 🏔️ Are you planning field trips? (small trunk, low ground clearance for off-road use).

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions about Nissan Micra

❓ How much oil should I pour into the 1.2 (HR12DE) engine?

Oil volume with filter replacement - 3.2 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30 or 5W-40 (For example, Mobil Super 3000 X1 or Liqui Moly Special Tec AA).

❓ Which tires fit a Micra with 16-inch wheels?

Recommended size: 185/55 R16 or 195/50 R16. For winter it is better to choose studded models (for example, Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3), for summer - Michelin Primacy 4 or Continental PremiumContact 6.

❓ What is the resource of the variator on Micra?

With proper operation (regular oil changes every 60 thousand km) the variator runs 150–200 thousand km. The main thing is to avoid sudden starts and towing.

❓ Is it possible to install gas on Micra 1.2?

Technically yes, but not recommended: engine HR12DE not designed to operate on gas, which can lead to burnout of the valves. Better consider 1.0-liter turbo engine — it is more adapted for HBO.

❓ Which analogues are cheaper than Micra?

Among the new cars: Datsun mi-DO (from 750 thousand ₽), Lada Vesta (from 900 thousand ₽). On the secondary side - Hyundai i20 (2018–2020) or Kia Rio (2017–2021) at a similar price, but with better equipment.