New Nissan Micra
- Increased size provides more space and practicality
- Dynamic and contemporary design
- Improved handling and stability offers increased comfort
- Wide range of options available
- Downsized engines provide real tax incentive
- Prices from £11,995
- Company car tax from 18%
FOR some the new Nissan Micra won’t meet the requirements of a suitable company car because, well, because it’s a Nissan Micra. For the vast majority of company car drivers though, the Micra is definitely worth considering.
Choosing a new company car has always been a trade off between getting the best model and minimising the tax liability. The new Micra offers a decent amount of space and good equipment levels wrapped in a very contemporary looking package.
Add a company car tax band rate of 18% for petrol and 20% on diesel and the attraction for business drivers becomes apparent.
The revolutionised look of the Micra is longer, wider and lower than before and is now targeted at the heart of the supermini segment. Rivals include the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa and VW Polo.
That increased size has allowed Nissan to create a much roomier interior that offers improved space and flexibility, and as it’s only available in five-door configuration expect much improved practicality too. Nissan is also confident that the increased size offers more agile handling that will complement the Micra’s new dynamic image.
Three choices of engine in new Micra
Available with three engine choices, there’s two petrol engines and a diesel.
The 1.5-litre turbo diesel produces 89bhp and official figures suggest it will return 88mpg and 85g/km.
Of the two petrol options it’s likely the 89bhp, 0.9-litre turbo will be the most popular choice as it should offer a bit more punch than the alternative non-turbo 1.0-litre but still achieves 99g/km and 64mpg. Nissan also has plans for further engine options and an automatic transmission.
The new Micra is available with a whole array of technology across five different grades.
You can configure the Micra to include:
- Touchscreen controls;
- Cruise control;
- Navigation;
- Privacy glass; and
- Keyless entry.
There is also a choice of interior and exterior personalisation packs that allow you to add colour accents and details to complement the body colour. Safety features such as Intelligent Lane Intervention and emergency braking are standard across the range.
With prices starting from £11,995, a good selection of engines and options, and a moderately generous tax rate the new Nissan Micra could go a long way to enticing many drivers to consider downsizing when it comes to choosing their next company car.
