Photo Gallery: 2011 Nissan Micra

Nissan's all-new Micra (March in Japan) will be priced from �8,995, rising to �12,095 for the range-topping Tekna grade. Priced very competitively, the new Micra undercuts rivals like the Ford Fiesta, Suzuki Swift, Peugeot 207 and Renault Clio.

The Micra uses the new �V� platform, which means it�s lighter and stronger than the outgoing car. Using a pair of new 3-cylinder, 1.2 litre petrol engines, the naturally-aspirated 80PS engine will return 56.5mpg and emit 115g/km. In CVT, the combined fuel economy figure drops to 52.3mpg and CO2 emissions increase to 125g/km. This is the only engine currently available and produces 110Nm of torque. Spring 2011 will see a turbo-charged 1.2, producing 98PS and emitting 95g/km go on sale, making it congestion charge free. This will kick out a mere 142Nm of torque.

A silky smooth CVT adds �950 on top of Visia and Acenta models. To simplify the range, only three trim-levels will be offered.

Base Visia models come equipped with 5 doors, ESP, x6 airbags, radio/CD w/Bluetooth and AUX input, 14� steel wheels, body-coloured bumpers, electric front windows, height adjustable steering wheel, remote central locking, electric power steering, internally adjustable door mirrors, and a storage space under the front passenger seat. The CVT transmission bumps up the price to �9,945.

Air-conditioning is optional, at �500.

Mid-range Acenta � set to be the best-selling grade � comes standard with cruise control w/speed limiter, 15� alloy wheels, 60/40 split folding rear seats, climate control, leather gearknob & steering wheel w/audio controls and 4 speakers, front fog lamps, rear electric windows, chrome interior door handles, driver�s seat height adjustment, ISOFIX child-seat mountings, body-coloured door mirrors, handles and side mouldings, and electrically adjustable/heated door mirrors all for �10,595.

Nissan Connect satellite navigation system is optional.

Flagship Tekna includes panoramic glass sunroof w/shade, rear parking sensors, light & rain sensor, 6 speaker audio system w/USB slot, electric folding door mirrors, drivers armrest, and Nissan Connect satellite navigation system w/parking slot measurement.

"With more than 5.65 million sales over nearly 30 years, Nissan Micra is a clear favourite with customers. New Micra will appeal to loyal Micra buyers, of course, but its stylish looks, improved quality and dynamic abilities will also appeal to new customers," said Vincent Cobee. "The importance of a sub-100g CO2 figure cannot be underestimated.

"We have developed an attractive car for Europe which is light but robust and which provides very competitive roominess and features, as well as top-class fuel efficiency and low emissions. The Nissan Micra is a car that is designed to make day-to-day driving in a typical European city as simple and easy as possible."

The Micra is on sale now.