Wide ranging changes to Nissan's Micra - but have they gone far enough?

Nissan has significantly updated the Micra with a round of changes to the company's third best-selling model.

As well as a new look front and rear, the Japanese car maker has given the Micra an interior makeover with new technology, a new centre console and new trim.

But it's important to remember that the Micra is a basic, budget supermini and there's an argument that the company may have to go even further to gain ground in a well-populated sector.

To remain competitive Nissan has also expanded Micra's choice of personalisation options designed to allow an owner to create their own unique car.

Depending on trim level there's an all-new communication centre with the latest state-of-the-art touchscreen navigation system now with a larger screen.

The car is an easy drive, with a tight turning circle, light steering and good visibility but you still get a bumpy ride which gets more twitchy the faster you go.

Driver and passengers sit comfortably and there's a good range of adjustments on the steering wheel along with front electric windows and door mirrors.

The car benefits from the latest NissanConnect navigation and communication system, which has new features and a bigger screen.

Upgraded navigation now features eco-routing, which automatically calculates the route likely to use the least fuel. The new system also incorporates features such as Google send-to-car technology, which allows an owner to plan a journey on their PC or tablet at home or in the office and then send the instructions to the car ahead of the journey.

Google's Point of Interest (POI) search-and-access to weather forecasts, local fuel prices and flight information, is also included.

The navigation system also includes useful motorway 'exit views' and speed warning alerts.

The buying decision might be a bit easier when you consider Nissan's impressive reliability record and the Micra has always been right up there as one of the company's best performers.

Safety and security on the Acenta 1.2 DIG-S on test was impressive with three adjustable rear head restraints, LED tail lamps, Electronic Stability Programme, six airbags, ABS with brake assist' remote central locking and engine immobiliser.

You won't be leaving the competition at a standstill though as it takes 11.3 seconds to get to 62mph. But there is a top speed of 112mph.

Fuel consumption results are good with combined figures of 65.7mpg and brilliant CO2 emission figures of just 99g/km will keep you on-side with supporters of everything green.

By Graham Breeze