(December 17, 2017) PARIS — The entry level 1.0-liter version of the all-new Nissan Micra is playing a key role in the hatchback’s sales success. Customers are clearly impressed with its perfect balance of urban performance and low running costs.

The highly efficient 70-horsepower three-cylinder unit has accounted for 20 percent of orders across Europe since it went on sale earlier this year. However, that figure is forecast to rise even higher, to 23 percent by March.

With approximately 46,000 new Micra sold, it means close to 10,000 customers are already enjoying the 1.0 engine’s frugal performance. Naturally aspirated, the engine is linked to a five-speed manual transmission.

The 1.0-liter is one of three engines available on the all-new Micra. The others are a 0.9-liter 89-horsepower three-cylinder turbo gas and a 1.5-litre 89-horsepower four-cylinder diesel.

Offering a 70-horsepower engine makes the Micra more accessible than ever before. It extends Nissan’s coverage within the European B-hatchback segment to 65 percent of all vehicles sold. With more than half of all European B-hatchback vehicles sold in the 60-100 horsepower category, the Micra is perfectly positioned to meet the needs of small car consumers.

Nissan says the Micra is a revolution, a radical progression from the model it has replaced, and from the trio of highly successful superminis which date back to the Micra’s debut in Europe in 1983.

Longer, wider and lower than ever before, the all-new Micra has been conceived, designed and engineered with European B-hatchback consumers’ requirements at the top of the agenda. And those who have already bought one are thrilled with it, Nissan says. Scores and comments posted via independent reviews organization Reevoo have revealed an impressive average of 8.8 out of 10. A third of reviewers have awarded their Micra top marks — 10 out of 10.

Key to the all-new Micra’s appeal is the car’s athletic and expressive exterior design, which moves the Micra name plate in a daring new direction. The contemporary look and premium feel continues inside, with a high-quality cabin that boasts two-tone soft-touch materials as standard across the range.

With a wheelbase that’s 3-inches longer than its predecessor, it features segment-leading interior space for front seat occupants.

The all-new Micra is also a technology leader, with a number of features which are not only new to the Micra but new to the segment. These include Intelligent Lane Intervention, a safety system which gently corrects the Micra back on to the right path should it be required.

Also unique to Micra is the BOSE Personal audio system, which features speakers built into the driver’s head rest for an immersive 360° sound experience. The new Micra is available with a wide range of personalization options, allowing owners to modify the exterior and interior with premium components in a variety of stylish and contemporary colors.

The new Micra, Nissan says, is also a fantastic car to drive, with a dynamic performance that is the perfect balance between agility, excitement and the secure feeling that comes with confident and predictable handling.