Nissan Micra Hatchback (2003 - 2010) 1.2 SX 3d (2004/04) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Someone who doesn't want to be lumbered with massive car-related bills.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Some friends thought the interior was a little low rent. Family felt that it was a sensible, if slightly uninspiring, purchase.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Probably not. I considered another K12 but little had changed between this 2004 model and the 2009 version. Unfortunately, the new K13 Micra doesn't feel like a quality product.

What are you likely to buy next?

Seat Ibiza/Suzuki Swift/Ford Fiesta.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,800

When did you buy the car?

September 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

The dealer was flexible despite only selling a fairly small number of cars. Happy to increase the price on my part-exchange vehicle without too much haggling.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Previous 2001 Peugeot 307 failed.

What was the dealer like?

The dealer was pleasant enough. No pressure at all - allowed me to take the car on a test run around the block. The car itself was one of six in the showroom. The showroom itself was dimly lit but clean and tidy.

What's it like to drive?

In town, the Micra has a responsive throttle and the brakes are decent enough. Its turning circle is, as you'd expect, excellent. The Micra could take motorway driving, too. On motorway runs the 1200cc petrol engine would manage impressive fuel economy if not pushed too hard. The trade-off for this is the lack of refinement on these motorway journeys. The engine whirs loudly at 3500rpm and the high body shape means that wind noise is pretty intrusive. Despite having tyres fitted with the lowest decibel rating, road noise and tyre roar also remain a problem.

What's it like to park?

The little Micra is a doddle to park. Its short body length and excellent visibility meant that it made mincemeat of parking just about anywhere. The included parking sensors helped too.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Very little. On a day-to-day basis the car performed very well. MoTs were never stressful. Had to replace the original battery. The manual warns the owner that this should be done by a dealer. This is because the bracket securing the battery is secured by three bolts buried deep into the engine bay.

What's most practical about your car?

The Micra has lots of little cubbies and storage spaces. The boot is a decent size for a car of this type and the seats fold 60:40.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The keyless start was excellent and never failed.