If you're in the market for a small, stylish electric car, the new Nissan Micra and Renault 5 are likely on your radar. Under the skin, these two share the same platform and powertrains, but there are some other differences that might sway your decision one way or the other.
The Renault 5 leans heavily into its 1970s heritage with retro design cues and vibrant colours. The Nissan Micra, meanwhile, takes a modern, bubbly approach inspired by its own past models. Both aim to make electric motoring affordable and fun, so which of these platform-sharing superminis is the better buy?
Nissan Micra vs Renault 5
Practicality
Nissan Micra practicality score: 4/5
Renault 5 practicality score: 4/5
Both cars offer an identical amouunt of space, which is also perfectly respectable for their size. Up front, you get a comfortable driving position, and the dashboards share the same user-friendly layout. The Renault 5 adds some flair with colourful, retro-inspired seat upholstery, while the Micra keeps things smart and modern with its own unique trim options.
In the back, space is a little tight for taller adults, but kids will be perfectly happy on longer journeys. The rear doors on both could open a bit wider, which is worth noting if you regularly fit child seats. Boot space is identical at a useful 326 litres, which is larger than many rivals in this class. There is a noticeable drop over the load lip, but both offer underfloor storage to keep your charging cables tidy.
Driving Impressions
Nissan Micra driving score: 5/5
Renault 5 driving score: 5/5
Because they share the same underpinnings, the Micra and Renault 5 drive in a similarly brilliant way. They are not out-and-out hot hatches, but they are genuinely fun to pilot. Around town, quick steering and a tight turning circle make them nimble and easy to park.
Out on faster roads, both feel planted and confident. They ride on 18-inch wheels with chunky tyres, which helps the suspension soak up bumps nicely, making them comfortable cruisers. You also get adjustable regenerative braking via steering wheel paddles, allowing for smooth, one-pedal driving in traffic. Whether you choose the smaller or larger battery options, you get peppy acceleration that suits city life perfectly.
Technology and Equipment
Nissan Micra technology and equipment score: 4/5
Renault 5 technology and equipment score: 4/5
You get a generous amount of technology in both cars. The Micra comes with a large touchscreen featuring Google built-in from the mid-range Advance trim and upwards, making navigation a breeze. It also includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a suite of safety systems like adaptive cruise control as standard.
The Renault 5 matches this with its own 10-inch central touchscreen. While the base Evolution trim misses out on Google services, stepping up to the Techno trim gets you the full Google suite, including access to the Play Store for apps like Spotify. As with other Renaults, the 5 also features a clever physical button to easily turn off intrusive safety warnings, which is a welcome touch.
Running Costs
Nissan Micra running costs score: 5/5
Renault 5 running costs score: 5/5
Both cars are available with a 40kWh or 52kWh battery, with the larger item assembled in France, meaning it qualifies for the UK's full £3,750 Electric Car Grant. This makes the mid-spec Renault 5 Techno or Nissan Micra Advance models models look particularly tempting to buy outright.
The Micra does, however, sometimes undercut the Renault when it comes to monthly finance prices, which is worth bearing in mind. In terms of efficiency, both cars claim over 250 miles of range with the larger battery, though you should expect a real-world figure closer to 170 or 180 miles, dropping a bit further in winter. Both feature a heat pump to help maximise cold-weather efficiency.
CarGurus Buyer Insights
|
Nissan Micra |
Renault 5 |
| CarGurus expert rating |
4 out of 5 |
5 out of 5 |
| CarGurus user rating |
4.8 out of 5 |
4.8 out of 5 |
| Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus* |
30.5% |
30.5% |
| Overall CarGurus rating |
4.5 out of 5 |
4.6 out of 5 |
The Verdict
Nissan Micra Overall CarGurus rating: 4.5/5
Renault 5 Overall CarGurus rating: 4.6/5
Choosing between the Nissan Micra and the Renault 5 largely comes down to personal style preference, as they are both fantastic electric superminis. They offer a great blend of comfort, nimble handling, and useful everyday practicality.
However, based on our comprehensive CarGurus Buyer Insights, the Renault 5 just edges the victory. It scores a flawless five out of five from our experts, and as an overall package it continues to offer great value. Add in its charming retro design and smart interior, and it really is tough to beat.
The Nissan Micra remains a highly appealing alternative. If you prefer its modern looks or can find a sharper lease deal, you will be getting a car that is just as good to drive and live with. But for overall appeal, the Renault 5 is our top pick.
Nissan Micra Pros and Cons
| Pros |
Cons |
| Great to drive |
Lacks the Renault 5's wow factor |
| Smart interior |
Citroen e-C3 has a more spacious boot |
| Comfortable ride |
Rear doors could open wider |
Renault 5 Pros and Cons
| Pros |
Cons |
| Attractive styling and general sense of fun |
Real-world range a little disappointing |
| Impressive levels of standard equipment at a competitive price |
Some slightly flimsy-feeling switchgear |
| Plenty of interior space for a small car |
Rear doors could open wider |
*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from October 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.
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