THE Nissan Micra has been around for a long time and sells well to those wanting a well-built, reliable little city run-around at a competitive price - and that's as much as you can say about it.
Well, it used to be true, but now if you're looking for sporty performance Nissan has come up with a racy version of the Micra in the shape of the 160SR.
It has better performance figures than a Mini One, Fiesta Zetec-S or a Citroen C2 VTR.
The Sunderland-built Micra, with 110bhp under the bonnet can shift from zero to 62 mph in just 9.8 seconds but will still return 42.8mpg.
Nissan engineers have lowered its suspension and stiffened up the springs and steering, which has given the 160SR a genuine performance feel.
The styling on the 160SR has been pumped up. It gets a deep front spoiler with integrated fog lamps and the headlamps are dark tinted.
Door sills also boast spoilers and the one on the tailgate is colour coded. Add to this 16-inch alloy wheels and the 160SR has go-faster looks.
So, it looks the part, but how does it drive?
It doesn't exactly pin you back in your seat when you plant your right foot but it moves with urgency up through its slick five-speed manual box.
The 16v four-cylinder engine can be a bit noisy when pushed hard but that just adds to the fun. Acceleration in the mid range is excellent giving plenty of confidence to overtake safely.
Cornering ability is good with very little lean on sharp, fast bends and the steering is nicely weighted.
Road noise on rough surfaces is a bit intrusive but there is no wind noise thanks to the Micra's excellent build quality.
Front seats on the Micra 160SR and Sport models have additional support and I found the driving position ideal with good all-round visibility through the unobstructed windows.
Front seat leg and headroom are up to scratch even for six-footers, but it's a bit cramped in the back, especially headroom.
The boot is reasonable for this size of motor and if you need extra room the rear seats fold 60-40 and can slide back and forwards.
The three-door version has some nice interior touches to make it stand out from the rest of the Micra range. They include grey-on-ivory dials, aluminium pedals and leather steering wheel with drive computer and audio controls.
Safety and security features on the 160SR include fog lamps, driver and passenger airbags, side airbags, electronic stability programme, anti-lock brakes with brake assist, immobiliser, air conditioning, central locking and automatic rain sensing wipers.
For entertainment the sporty Micra has been fitted with a dashboard integrated six CD changer audio system with six speakers.
It will set you back just over £10,000 making the 160SR an attractive package for the younger driver who wants a bit of fun at a reasonable price.
FAST FACTS
Nissan Micra 1.6 160SR 3dr
Price: £10,195
Mechanical: 110bhp, 1,598cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox.
Max speed: 114mph
0-62mph: 9.8 secs
Combined mpg: 42.8
Insurance group: 6
CO2 emissions: 158g/km
BiK rating: 18%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 3yrs paint; 6yrs anti-rust