The Nissan Micra has been around for decades – three in fact – but the very latest model is guaranteed to turn heads, just as it did when it was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show.

The all-new Micra Gen5 is lower, wider and longer than its predecessors and has more interior space. It includes the distinctive V-motion grille, boomerang-shaped lights, and a smart floating roof. Other features include rear door handles hidden in the C-pillars and an extended roofline that incorporates a spoiler, benefiting the car’s aerodynamic performance and aesthetics.

The dramatic looks are matched by a selection of 10 vivid exterior colours, including Energy Orange. Additional exterior and interior personalisation options allow for the creation of 125 different variations, enabling owners to really stamp their own style on their new Micra.

Plenty of attention has been given to driver comfort, with a lower driving position for a more secure driving feel. It’s far simpler for all drivers to achieve the perfect driving position thanks to greater seat adjustment, the fully adjustable steering wheel and the optimal positioning of the pedals and shift lever. The car’s extended width and wheelbase means cabin space is among the best in class.

The Micra is also the first in Nissan’s B-segment line-up to offer such an extensive set of advanced safety features, available across all grades, bringing Nissan Intelligent Driving to life. Usually found in larger cars, safety systems include Lane Departure Prevention, a segment first; Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition, a first for Nissan vehicles in Europe; as well as Intelligent Around View Monitor, Traffic Sign Recognition, High Beam Assist and Blind Spot Warning.

An exclusive feature of Micra Gen5 is the all-new six-speaker Bose® Personal® sound system, developed through close collaboration with Nissan. This first-of-its-kind sound system is optimised for the driver, with two Bose speakers built into the driver seat headrest for a remarkably immersive listening experience.

The car also comes fitted with a 7-inch full colour central display, providing access to the audio system, satellite navigation, mobile phone, downloadable apps and Siri voice control via Apple CarPlay.

Engine efficiency has also been a key objective in the development of the Micra Gen5. At launch, the car will be on offer powered by a 1.5-litre diesel engine along with a 0.9-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine, both developing 90hp.

As the car was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show today, Carlos Ghosn, CEO, Nissan Motor Company, said: “When the first Micra appeared more than 30 years ago, it marked a revolution in the small hatchback segment and opened a new chapter for Nissan. The fifth generation Micra is just as revolutionary, and will raise expectations for what a hatchback can, and should, deliver to its customers. Following in the wheel tracks of distinctive cars like Qashqai and Juke, the latest Micra reinforces Nissan’s position as a leader in automotive design. It also shows our intent to compete right at the top of Europe’s B-segment market – the largest and most competitive B-segment market in the world.”