The new Nissan Micra Active – Sensible Starts

By Chad Lückhoff

As much as we would all like our first car to be a luxurious German sedan or a go-anywhere 4x4, the fact remains that we, realistically, have to set our sights a little lower. Affordability is the primary deciding factor for most buyers, with the ownership of an opulent motor vehicle shelved and filed under “One Day”. Many graduates will not walk into a high paying job right away and it will be a while before the salaries match the ambitions. This is where the Nissan Micra Active comes in.

Positioned as a Lower B-Segment hatch, the Nissan Micra Active fills a gap in Nissan's range, slotting in between the Datsun Go and the new Nissan Micra (due for launch March 2018). While the new Micra (K14) will replace the current Micra (K13), the current version will continue to be produced as the Micra Active, offering an affordable solution for those looking to get into a new car.

How much Nissan Micra Active do you get for your money?

A surprising amount! The Nissan Micra Active is fitted with the tried and tested 1.2-litre 3-cylinder HR12DE engine that produces 56kW and 104Nm torque while Nissan has given us a 5.2l/100km figure for average fuel consumption, our urban drive returned figures of 6.5l/100km, which is more than respectable. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox with no automatic option available at present.

It's the standard spec level that impresses, though. The Micra Active comes from the factory with manual air-conditioning, electric front windows, Bluetooth functionality, 12V outlet, tilt adjustment on the steering wheel, foldable rear seats, remote central locking and drive-away locking of the doors. It was nice to see a car in this segment fitted with a rev-counter, but it is still devoid of a temperature gauge.

The Micra Active certainly feels solid enough on the road and comfortable enough for the odd long journey. Our model was fitted with the touchscreen infotainment system that is included in the price for the launch period, whereafter it will be an optional extra.

The interior has been revised with new fabric adorning the seats and a redesigned instrument cluster and fascia. It is as spacious as always and cabin noise is surprisingly low, even at highway speeds.

Affordability shouldn't compromise safety

Nissan has retained all the safety features that has made the Micra a solid buy and the Active is still equipped with Anti-lock brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) with Brake Assist. There's driver and passenger airbags, ISOfix child seat anchor points at the rear, rear headrests, high-level third brake light and rear fog lamps.

Fresh new kicks

A wand has been waved over the exterior of the Micra Active and the facelift comprises new headlights, a new grille (complete with chrome ‘V’ and large Nissan badge), redesigned fenders, bonnet and bumper. The rear benefits from new taillights and a revamped bumper.

The Trendsetter Pack is a factory fit optional extra that includes dark alloy wheels, a chrome exhaust tip and rear spoiler.

Attractive warranty and service plan

The Micra becomes a considerably better value proposition when one factors in the class-leading warranty and service plan which, at no additional cost, includes a 6-year / 150 000km warranty and 3-year / 90 000km service plan.

Nissan Micra Active Price

The new Nissan Micra Active will cost you a mere R159 900, inclusive of all the above. Perhaps this is the new car for you, if you plan on joining the Nissan family.