It seems like everyone has a story about Nissan's iconic supermini – the Micra. After all, it has survived for over 40 years and six generations, although the fifth-generation model, based on the current Renault Clio, went off sale in 2024.

Well, now it's back, and like its predecessor, it's also based on a Renault – although this time it's the seemingly unstoppable, multi-award-winning Renault 5 E-Tech Electric.

Design and interior
We think that because the basic shape looks so similar to the Renault 5, it almost tricks you into thinking the Micra is the same car with a different nose and tail. That's not quite true, as all the body panels below the wing mirrors have been changed.

The work of Nissan's design studio in London, the styling is said to be influenced by the rounded, third-generation K12 Micra. With its high-set circular headlights and horizontal bonnet, we think it looks most like that older car from the front, while the circular rear lights mirror the front design. The least noticeable styling change over the Renault is at the side, where Nissan has introduced what it calls the 'Gelato Scoop' – a new character line.

The latest Micra's design is certainly more distinctive than the Renault 5's, but in our opinion it isn't quite as attractive, nor does it feature as many unique design details.

Inside, it's even harder to tell this Nissan apart from the Renault 5 E-Tech, as the dashboard design is almost identical – right down to the three-spoke multifunction steering wheel. The only real giveaway in our range-topping Evolve test car is the lighter, more subdued grey-and-black interior trim. However, we do feel the Nissan has a slightly more premium feel thanks to its leatherette upholstery and excellent standard Harman Kardon sound system. Otherwise, the Renault 5 misses out on the Micra's 'Easter egg' Mount Fuji graphics between the front seats and on the boot trim.

Another interior highlight is the 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen. The standard NissanConnect system is excellent, features Google built-in, and is intuitive to use.

Just like the Renault 5, the driving position is excellent, and the tall front seats are supportive. However, this comes at the expense of rear passenger space. Taller passengers on longer journeys are likely to complain about the limited legroom and headroom. At 326 litres, the Micra's boot is a good size, although the high boot lip does hinder practicality.

Performance and drive
The styling is about the biggest difference between the Micra and the Renault 5 E-Tech, because underneath they're mechanically identical, sharing the same choice of two battery packs.

There's a 40kWh Standard Range battery with a claimed range of up to 198 miles, paired with a 120hp motor. The larger 52kWh battery fitted to our test car offers a WLTP range of up to 260 miles and is matched to a 150hp motor. Every Micra comes with 11kW AC charging as standard, while DC rapid charging of up to 100kW is available, depending on the battery.

After spending four months with the Renault 5, the first thing I noticed about the Micra was its comfortable and composed ride. In fact, I'd say the Micra rides ever so slightly softer. Both cars ride on 18-inch alloy wheels, although I suspect the extra compliance comes from the Hankook tyres fitted to the Nissan.

There's some body roll, but plenty of grip, and the Micra's performance is keen. We'd describe it as genuinely fun to drive, helped by the useful one-pedal driving mode that's not yet available on the Renault 5. It's a shame, then, that the fiddly electronic handbrake arrangement remains unchanged.

Costing around £700 more than the mechanically identical Renault 5 Techno+, the Micra offers slightly more range and a higher level of standard equipment. If the less attractive styling doesn't put you off, we also appreciated the Nissan's more settled ride.

Positive
Increased range and better equipment than the Renault, more comfortable ride.

Negative
Less attractive exterior and interior design.

Standard equipment
18-inch alloy wheels, dual 10.1-inch displays for the driver information and infotainment systems, plus a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems.

Positive: More range and better equipped than the Renault % E-TechDesign, spacious and practical interior.

Negative: Less attractive exterior and interior design.

Standard equipment: 18in alloy wheels, dual 10in screens for driver information and infotainment, advanced ADAS systems.