What you get
The 2003 generation Micra, with all its curves, arcs and bulges turned a definite corner. For a start, it was the first supermini for quite some time which didn't set out to be the most spacious car in its class, instead preferring to concentrate on distinctive styling. It was a sensible tactic. After all, many of us would prefer to drive something that looks a little sassy instead of a boring econobox. Do you really need enough rear headroom to seat a seven-foot ogre when the occupants of the back pew are usually the kids or a few shopping bags? No.
The exterior styling is remarkable. The domed roof is 100mm higher than the old Micra and the width was also increased a tad, but the overall length is shorter but with a longer wheelbase. It is packaged more efficiently than the old car, although not in the same league as rivals like the Honda Jazz. Nevertheless, the Micra manages the feat of making Honda's baby look pretty dull. The flanks have a bevelled waistline that runs from front to rear wing, giving the styling an integrated, cohesive look. The headlights are the key design touch, looking for all the world as if they'd illuminate skywards like twin searchlights.
Standard equipment includes anti lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, remote central locking, front electric windows, twin airbags, an electric tailgate release and a CD-based stereo. Nissan, it seems, have twigged that cassette sales have disappeared down the gurgler. Move up to a 1.2-litre and the opening variant is an S specification car which adds side airbags, a sliding rear seat with 60/40 split and driver's seat height adjustment amongst other features. Trade up to a Micra SE and the car starts getting pretty tricksy. A drive computer, an intelligent key, automatic rain sensing wipers, air conditioning and body coloured electric door mirrors make life easier, whilst the leather trim on the steering wheel, seat bolsters and bigger wheels are welcome touches. There's a big multifunctional glove box and a 10-litre storage area under the passenger seat for hiding valuables too. The penultimate Micra model is the SX, which adds dark tinted headlamps, front fog lights, electronic climate control with 'ivory' controls, 15-inch alloy wheels, a roof spoiler and swankier trim. For those after the ultimate Micra, nothing but the SVE will do, featuring as it does ultrasonic parking sensors. The SR features various sporty enhancements including spoilers and larger wheels.
Opt for one of the top trim levels and the intelligent key will have your friends scratching their heads. This unlocks the car when you pass within 80cm of it, whereupon you'll merely need to press a button on the door handle, drop into the driver's seat and twist a knob where the ignition barrel would normally be to fire the Micra up. No more fumbling for keys, working out which button is 'unlock' in the dark or stabbing yourself in the leg with the key blade. Whichever Micra you opt for, expect to find easy access front and rear with ample legroom, if a notable premium on headroom at the back.
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What to look for
Nothing to report here. The Micra always was a very reliable car and Nissan claim to have ironed out the recurrent problems of the previous model (seized brake calipers and worn constant velocity joints). Check for parking damage and ensure the car has a full Nissan service history and buy with confidence.
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Replacement parts
(Approx. values for a 2003 1.4SX) A clutch assembly will be around £195 and front brake pads are around £45; it's around £40 for the rear set. An alternator should be close to £250 and a radiator around £175.
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On the road
The driving position is good, although the steering wheel adjusts only for rake and not reach. Underconfident drivers will be relieved by the fact that the headlights are visible from the driver's seat, giving an easy width reference. Otherwise, the dashboard is a little more conventional than the wacky styling may lead you to believe, although the Bakelite-style 'ivory' control switches on the upper spec models are a neat touch, apparently designed to ape traditional Japanese ceramics. The Micra feels a good deal sharper than expected on the road, with an emphasis placed on driver enjoyment. The ride isn't bad for such a small car, although noise insulation isn't a strong point. Still, it's a car that can rapidly paint a big smile across your face and all the engines have something to be said for them, the 1.2-litre unit that most people will choose being capable of getting to 60mph in 13.9 seconds and averaging nearly 48mpg.
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Overall
Go for a clean-looking Micra with a full service history from a reputable source and you shouldn't go wrong. It's still the perfect no-hassle starter car and runabout.
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