Nissan Micra

   The Nissan Micra is produced since 2002. It was facelifted in 2007.

   There are five engines to choose from. On the paper it's performance is modest, but the Micra is nippy enough to keep up with traffic around town. The high fifth gear can leave it floundering on steep motorway gradients, however, while the three-speed auto is slower still.

   In spite of its small wheels and short wheelbase, it rides reasonably well, but show the car a series of ruts or bumps, and it soon runs out of composure. Nonetheless, it grips surprisingly well for a city car, although body roll is ever present.

   Considerable wind and road noise intrudes at speed. Engine noise in the manual remains well contained, though, thanks to the high fifth gear, which keeps engine revs low even on the motorway. The three-speed auto revs far higher at cruising speeds, however.

   This is motoring on a budget. The list price is rock bottom, and running costs should match. It's relatively low fuel consumption on the combined cycle will keep fuel bills low. However, in three years the Micra will be worth under half the new price.

   The Micra has a big reputation for toughness and reliability. That isn't reflected in the quality of the cabin, however. Dash design and the standard of the plastics and trim are dismal.

   Twin airbags are standard throughout the range. Side impact protection beams and seatbelt pre-tensioners are also standard, but it's disappointing that anti-lock brakes don't even feature on the options list.

   There's no means of adjusting the steering wheel position or the seat height, so the driving position is of the like-it-or-lump-it school. The major controls are easy to find, but the rear windscreen wash-wipe is controlled by two dash-mounted buttons, awkwardly hidden behind the steering wheel. All-round visibility is good, however.

   Having five doors, the Micra is a quiet practical car. Although there's precious little leg- or headroom in the rear, while the narrow body means travelling three-up in the back will be a tight squeeze. The boot is offers quiet average capacity of 371 liters, rising to 584 with the rear seat folded flat.

   Three trim levels are offered: All models come with power steering, a rear wash-wipe, side impact protection and rear-door child locks. Some models gain electric front windows, central door locking and metallic paint. One of them also has electrically operated wing mirrors. A stereo is a dealer fit option, however.

   Production of the Nissan Micra Still continues. There is also a convertible available - the Micra CC.

   Advantages:

   Disadvantages:

   Verdict: Small Nissan Micra ticks almost every box.

   Also consider: Citroen C3, SEAT Ibiza.