The all-new Nissan Micra has been launched in South Africa and it's priced right on the button, by South African standards at least, with the entry-level 1.2 Visia starting below the R110 000 mark and although not too well equipped at this level, the better-endowed models are not too much of a stretch further.
WHAT YOU PAY:
1.2 Visia - R108 400
1.2 Visia+ - R117 500
1.2 Acenta - R127 500
1.5 dCI Acenta - R140 400
1.5 Tekna - R147 000
WHAT YOU GET:
All models get the obligatory power steering and the basic safety features like dual front airbags and ABS braking.
The Visia+ adds air conditioning, electric windows and remote central locking, while the Acenta gets a multi-function trip computer and electric mirrors among other additions.
The Tekna asserts its flagship status with items like automatic climate control and 15-inch alloy wheels.
THE PACKAGE:
Offering marginally larger dimensions than is predecessor, the new mite offers decent interior space and a reasonable 265-litre boot.
Most models are powered by a frugal new 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine that punches above its weight with 56kW and 104Nm on tap - and the car's lighter than before, at 944kg.
Further up the pecking order you can also get a 73kW/138Nm 1.5-litre petrol or a 47kW/160Nm 1.5-litre turbodiesel.
IS IT GOOD?
Our launch correspondent was particularly impressed with the 1.2-litre model - watch this space for a full analysis and driving impressions at midday tomorrow (5 May).