Nissan Micra 1.2 Acenta: Complete City Car Review

The Nissan Micra 1.2 Acenta stands out in the crowded city car market as a vehicle that prioritizes reliability, visibility, and everyday usability. Equipped with a smooth 1.2-liter petrol engine and available in high-spec Acenta trim, this supermini offers a blend of comfort features and efficient performance suited for city commuting and family errands. Its CVT automatic transmission enhances drivability, making it one of the best small automatics for those avoiding manuals.

Engine and Transmission Options

At the heart of the Nissan Micra 1.2 Acenta is a naturally aspirated 1.2-liter three-cylinder petrol engine, delivering responsive performance without the complexity of turbocharging. This unit produces around 79-98 bhp depending on the variant, with the DIG-S supercharged version offering up to 98 bhp for better acceleration. The 0-62 mph sprint takes about 11.3 seconds in the more powerful DIG-S model, which is adequate for urban overtakes and motorway merging, though not exhilarating.

Transmission choices include a five-speed manual or the standout CVT automatic, praised for its smoothness and reliability. The CVT gearbox shifts seamlessly, providing a relaxed driving experience ideal for stop-start traffic. Owners report excellent longevity, with low-mileage examples like an 80,000-mile 2012 model still performing flawlessly. Fuel economy is a highlight, with figures up to 65.7 mpg in the DIG-S variant and CO2 emissions as low as 99 g/km, qualifying for low road tax. The standard 1.2-liter achieves around 60 mpg on average.

This table summarizes key specs, showing the DIG-S edge in efficiency and pace.

Premium Acenta Specification Breakdown

The Acenta trim elevates the Micra beyond entry-level models like Visia, adding luxuries that enhance daily comfort. Standard features include 15-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights, climate control air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth-enabled CD stereo, and a height-adjustable driver’s seat. These extras make long journeys less fatiguing, with cruise control particularly useful on dual carriageways.

• Climate Control: Automatic temperature regulation for front occupants.
• Cruise Control: Maintains set speeds effortlessly.
• Alloy Wheels & Fog Lights: Improve aesthetics and visibility.
• Bluetooth & USB: Seamless phone integration and media playback.
• Height-Adjustable Seat: Customizable driving position for various drivers.

Compared to base Visia (Bluetooth, electric windows, optional AC), Acenta justifies its price premium with these additions, positioning it as a mid-range sweet spot. Top Tekna adds keyless entry, but some advise avoiding due to potential reliability issues in older keyless systems.

Driving Dynamics and Road Experience

Behind the wheel, the Micra 1.2 Acenta impresses with exceptional all-round visibility, thanks to its upright stance and slim pillars—a rarity in modern superminis. This aids parking in tight urban spaces. The ride is composed over bumps, with decent rear legroom surprising for the class, making it family-friendly.

Steering is light and precise at low speeds, firming up on faster roads. The CVT automatic feels natural, eliminating gear-shifting stress, though manuals offer slightly better involvement. Engine noise is subdued at cruising speeds, but the three-cylinder character adds a quirky buzz under acceleration. It’s not a driver’s car like the Ford Fiesta, lacking sharpness, but excels in practicality and calmness—perfect for new drivers or fleet use.

Handling is safe and predictable, with a max speed around 112 mph sufficient for most needs. Braking is confident, aided by ABS standard across trims.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

Step inside, and the cabin feels built to last, with durable plastics and intuitive layout. Visibility is panoramic, reducing stress in traffic. Rear space accommodates adults for short trips, and the 260-liter boot swallows shopping or weekend bags adequately.

Front seats are supportive, with the adjustable driver’s setup suiting taller drivers. Storage bins are plentiful, including door pockets and a deep glovebox. Materials won’t win design awards but prioritize function over flair. Build quality instills confidence for high-mileage use, as evidenced by cars exceeding 70,000 miles without major issues.

Safety and Reliability Highlights

Nissan equips the Micra with essentials like multiple airbags, stability control, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. Euro NCAP ratings from the era gave it solid scores for occupant protection. Reliability is a strong suit; the 1.2 engine and CVT are proven durable, with low service costs.

Owners praise its low running costs, cheap insurance (group 9E), and minimal breakdowns. Road tax is £0-£30 annually depending on emissions.

Pricing, Value, and Running Costs

New prices started around £13,045 for DIG-S Acenta, undercutting rivals like Fiesta or Clio. Used examples from 2012, like low-mileage CVT autos, fetch £5,000-£6,000, offering strong value with warranties available.

Expect 50-65 mpg real-world, plus inexpensive parts. It’s cheaper to buy and run than many peers, ideal for budgets.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Who Should Buy the Nissan Micra 1.2 Acenta?

Ideal for urban dwellers, new drivers, or second-car buyers valuing ease and economy over sportiness. Families appreciate rear space; fleets love low costs. Skip if seeking thrills—opt for Fiesta instead.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Nissan Micra 1.2 Acenta reliable?

Yes, with proven engines and CVT lasting over 80,000 miles easily.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Up to 65.7 mpg in DIG-S, around 50-60 mpg real-world.

Does Acenta have air conditioning?

Yes, full climate control is standard.

How does the CVT perform?

Smooth and reliable for city driving.

Is it good for new drivers?

Absolutely, with low insurance and safe dynamics.