Nissan Micra models and trim levels explained

That’s before we get to the latest model, which is fully electric and heavily based on the Renault 5. Whether it’ll be looked on as favourably as older Micras in years to come is hard to tell.

Whether it’s powered by a motor or, more commonly, an engine, the Micra is a great small car that’s robust and good value. Here’s how to pick the best Nissan Micra model for you.

Nissan Micra models explained

Since 2010, the Micra has only been sold in the UK as a five-door hatchback. Earlier generations offered the choice of three or five doors.

In the 2000s, you could also get the Micra as a ‘C+C’ convertible, in the brief period when small cabriolets with metal folding roofs were popular to a degree.

In Japan, the Micra (or March, as it’s known there) has had many lives – there has been convertible, saloon and estate models. The Micra has also served as the base for some of Nissan’s wackier products like the Figaro and Cube.

Nissan Micra trim levels

The latest, fully electric Micra is available in the following trim levels:

• Engage – entry-level Micra EV includes large touchscreen, charge scheduling and the choice of two battery sizes
• Advance – mid-range version adds Google mapping and apps, adaptive cruise control and extra parking assistance
• Evolve – top-spec car only comes with the big battery, and adds a premium sound system and extra comfort and driver assistance features

The previous-shape Micra, sold from 2017 to 2023 and widely available at Motorpoint, is available in the following trim levels:

• Acenta – much more common than the bare-bones Visia, the Acenta trim includes cruise control and a touchscreen with phone mirroring
• N-Connecta – adds climate control and sat nav
• N-Sport – stands out with bigger alloy wheels, black detailing and a reversing camera
• Tekna – top-spec model with part-leatherette upholstery and a Bose sound system
• Kiiro – a special-edition model with yellow detailing and grey paint. Kiiro is Japanese for yellow

Nissan Micra generations

Sixth generation – 2025-on

• Fully electric and a reskinned Renault 5
• 40kWh and 52kWh batteries offer 196 and 257 miles of range respectively
• Fun little ‘easter eggs’ including Mount Fuji graphic in boot
• Built in France
• Model code: K15

Fifth generation – 2017-2023

• Ushered in a sportier and more sophisticated design than previous Micras
• High-quality interior for the price
• Peppy turbo petrol engine is most commonly available. Rare 71hp non-turbo is worth hunting out for the cheapest possible insurance costs
• Shared parts and production line with contemporary Renault Clio
• Minor facelifts in 2019 and 2020
• Model code: K14

Fourth generation – 2010-2017

• Weighs around a tonne
• Facelifted in 2013
• Unusual supercharged petrol engine was available, promising smoothness and diesel-like running costs
• Model code: K13

Third generation – 2002-2010

• Widely available for not very much money
• Porcelain-inspired dashboard controls
• Updated in 2004, 2005 and 2007
• Built in the UK
• Model code: K12

Second generation – 1992-2003

• Reliable, cheap runaround is still popular with delivery drivers
• Becoming sought after by younger drivers
• The first Japanese car to win the European Car of the Year award
• Facelifted in 1998 and 2000
• Model code: K11

First generation – 1982-1992

• Square-looking retro model was originally designed to be a Fiat
• Turned out to be more reliable than its main rivals
• Facelifted in 1989
• Model code: K10

What’s the best Nissan Micra model?

While the latest Micra is undoubtedly the most tech-focused and the best to drive, its electric powertrain won’t suit drivers who can’t charge at home or who regularly drive long distances. The fact that it’s clearly a rebadged Renault 5 also takes some of the shine off it. At the time of writing, it’s too new to be on the used market in serious quantities.

The last-shape Micra would be our pick for petrol buyers. It still feels modern and comes with phone connectivity and plenty of driver convenience features, plus its engine is economical. This Micra looks smart on the outside and feels sophisticated on the inside.

Meet your Micra at Motorpoint

Shop used Nissan Micra cars for sale, or read our Nissan Micra review to find out more information.