The Nissan Micra has been with us since 1983, and there have been five generations of the car. The 2017 Nissan Micra represents the fifth and final generation, and it’s a thoroughly decent car, doing a reasonable job in every single area. However, it doesn’t excel in any single one, and in a class that’s as fiercely competitive as the supermini class, where there are so many great cars, each of which gives you something a little different from the last, the Micra doesn’t have that USP that makes you want it over the others. If you can find a great deal on one, though, there’s no reason why you shouldn't go for it.

Strengths:

Affordable as a used car
Low insurance premiums
Lots of safety kit

Weaknesses:

Slow with the early entry-level engine
Rather tight on rear space
Generally outgunned by lots of rivals

Is the 2017 Nissan Micra better than the 2017 Ford Fiesta?

The Micra does a solid job in every single area, but it doesn’t excel in any single one of them. In most areas, the same is true of the Fiesta: in the areas of quality, practicality, ergonomics, reliability, and equipment, it’s merely average. When it comes to the driving experience, though, the Fiesta is absolutely brilliant, with peppy engines and a ride and handling balance that borders on perfection. If that’s what you’re after, then that USP instantly gives you a reason to buy the Fiesta. And it’s that USP that the Micra is lacking.