1993 Nissan Micra SLX review from UK and Ireland

Nothing at all.

Other reviews have mentioned this car as being the class leader for its time. I can certainly confirm this in many ways.

The CVT gearbox is an absolute wonder. It provides an infinite amount of ratios, unlike a standard automatic gearbox. Its efficiency is said to be as good as that of the manual. Approximately 4.4 litres/100km on the highway and 6 litres/100km in town (whatever this is in MPG). This I can easily believe. Acceleration is also extremely good for a car of its size - 0-60 must come up in well under 10 seconds, maybe only about 9. This may put it in the league of Saxo VTS, and older Fiesta SIs, but I did not buy the Nissan to race others' cars! 0-40 is certainly extremely rapid and will surprise drivers in considerably faster and larger-engined cars - great for getting away in town. Watch the tyres though - they are quite thin! However the handling is excellent nonetheless.

A recent 700 mile (1200 kilometre) trip across southern England, driving on some roads which were less than evenly surfaced, proved the Micra's worth as a go-anywhere car. It even handled the motorway respectably - 75mph equates to 3000rpm, which gives excellent economy whilst at the same time being able to remain in the middle lane ahead of most buses and lorries.

Internally, yes it is somewhat spartan compared to most of today's cars, but it does sport accessories like power steering and electric front windows. OK this is the SLX version, top of the range, but many of the Micra's then rivals (Fiesta, Clio) did not even have head restraints in the rear, something which is a feature of this Micra. Air-conditioning and an airbag were even an option, although this particular car is not fitted with them - my only small criticism as it can get quite warm what with the expanse of glass. However there is a sunroof with a sliding cover inside the car to hide it and to stop the sun beating in.

The seats themselves are extremely comfortable - I can regularly drive up to about three hours between rest stops and not experience any backache. Try to drive another small car. even today, but especially from the same era, and you will be hard-pressed to match the comfort levels which the Micra has/had to offer.

All in all, the Micra has served me extremely well, and owing to the low mileage I have no worries about owning it for another few years. I have heard that these engines and CVT gearboxes are good for over 200,000 kilometres. I hope this is true.