Not long after Nissan brought its Micra subcompact to Canada as a 2015 model, it unveiled a redesigned model at the Paris auto show. That got us excited, because a new version of a car we like is always something to look forward to.
But we got excited too soon. While the Micra will remain in Canada (it was never added to Nissan's U.S. lineup), it will stay in its current form.
That's not a terrible thing, but it's a decision prompted by North America's weakening market for cars in the face of the growing popularity of crossovers and SUVs.
Changes of note for 2018 include the addition of a standard backup camera (this safety feature is required in every new car sold in Canada from May 2018) and the elimination of the manual transmission option for the SR trim, though that shift-it-yourself gearbox remains the standard transmission for S and SV trims.
Which ever transmission you choose -- that five-speed stick or the optional four-speed automatic -- it comes hitched to a 1.6L four-cylinder engine that makes 109 hp and 107 lb-ft of torque.
Those are modest figures, but that little motor doesn't have much car to haul around, so the Micra is surprisingly spry in city driving, especially with the manual. If you plan to do much highway driving, the automatic is actually the better choice for taller gearing that keeps the engine speed lower and brings a nominal reduction in engine noise.
S trim comes with 15-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, trip computer, intermittent rear wiper, split folding rear seats and a two-speaker AM/FM/CD player with aux-in jack. It also comes standard with manual door locks, wind-up windows, manual mirrors -- and no air conditioning. If you want cold air in a Micra S, you have to opt for the automatic, which also brings cruise control.
SV trim adds body-coloured door handles, power heated mirrors, air conditioning, power door locks with keyless entry, power windows, height-adjustable driver's seat, upgraded cloth trim, Bluetooth and a pair of extra speakers.
The SR adds a colour display audio system,with USB port, sport cloth upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, a rear spoiler, fog lights, snazzy side skirts, and 16-inch alloy wheels.
Fuel consumption estimates are 9.0/6.8 L/100 km (city/highway) with the automatic transmission and 8.7/6.8 with the manual.