Nissan's third-generation Micra has collected some fans drawn by its practicality, efficiency and affordable price tag, but many have been left asking: "where's the fizz?"
"Is this enough?" Nissan's design folk are likely asking as they dish out this upgraded Micra.
In fact, it's such a comprehensive upgrade that Nissan says it goes well beyond what usually constitutes a mid-life facelift. In addition to a new look for the front and rear ends, the little Nissan's been treated to a substantial cabin makeover and there's some new technology thrown into the mix.
NOSE JOB
The bulk of the external sculpting took place at the front end, where the Micra receives a new grille with a V-shaped motif along with redesigned headlights, bumper, bonnet and fenders. More assertive? Certainly. Pretty? You be the judge.
Moving around the car you'll see new alloy wheel designs (15- or 16-inch depending on model) and the rear end is freshened up with a new bumper and LED taillights.
SMARTER COCKPIT
You'll find a more business-like design inside this Micra, with the previous circular central air vents having made way for square units. They sit atop an new centre console that's finished in gloss black. Also new are dash-mounted Aux and USB slots.
Nissan has yet to conform what features it'll offer in South African models, which are due here in 2014, but the European Micras have an enticing mix of creature comforts.
Top models boast the latest NissanConnect navigation and communication system, which features a new 5.8-inch screen and enhanced functionality - it can now calculate the most economical route and drivers can plan the route on their PC or tablet and send it to their car via Google 'Send-To-Car'.
If you're lousy at parking, you can even ask it to measure a parking space and tell you whether it's doable or not.
THREE POTS, ONE BLOWER
The European engine range kicks off with a 59kW 1.2-litre three-cylinder unit that can be mated to either a five-speed manual or CVT.
Yet the engine that piques our interest is exactly the same size, but featuring a supercharger and direct injection. This little thumper pushes a respectable 72kW, while Nissan claims it'll sip just 4.1 l/100km.
It remains to be seen whether Nissan will introduce this engine in South Africa, or continue with the current 1.5-litre unit.