Search Car Reviews



See all makes

Nissan Micra C+C Essenza

Small convertibles mean large sales volumes these days, but it hasn't always been that way. It was only four years ago that Peugeot's 206 CC arrived on the scene with its Mercedes SLK-style electric folding roof

By Sam Hardy

October 2005

Small convertibles mean large sales volumes these days, but it hasn't always been that way. It was only four years ago that Peugeot's 206 CC arrived on the scene with its Mercedes SLK-style electric folding roof. An instant hit, nearly 9,000 found homes in 2004, making it the UK's favourite cabrio.

Peugeot's success hasn't gone unnoticed. Eager to attract the same buyers, Nissan is launching its Micra C+C next month. Aimed at the Vauxhall Tigra, the Sunderland-built car was created with the help of drop-top expert Karmann.

The result is a glass-panelled roof that's a masterpiece of design and engineering. Raising or lowering it takes 22 seconds, and requires nothing more than a press of a button. Unlike in the 206 CC, there are no fiddly catches to worry about.

With a long, steeply raked windscreen, the roof is short. But there's 116mm of extra body length, so boot capacity is a class-leading 255 litres when the top is down. With it up, it's 457 litres - and there's also stowage space under the front passenger seat.

While the roof itself is impressive, the overall styling is less so, and the C+C suffers from the same boot-heavy appearance that plagues many coup

Tell us about your car in our Driver Power survey.

For an alternative review of the latest Nissan Micra visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

What Next

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!

< Previous   Next >

Sponsored Results

0 Comment

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.



Sponsored Results

- Advertisement -

Pictures

Sponsored Results

Find New Cars

Find your new Nissan Micra with our new car search:

Find New Cars
Find Used Cars

Find your Nissan Micra with our used car search.

Find Used Cars

FIRST OPINION

    Any drop-top supermini needs something special if it's arriving four years after the 206 CC, and the Micra has: a folding glass roof that gives the cabin an airy feel. It may not be sporty to drive, but the C+C counters this with decent boot space and a comfortable ride. Factor in some keen prices, and you've got a very impressive small convertible.
 

AT A GLANCE

    Three models are on offer: the 89bhp 1.4-litre Urbis, plus the 1.6 Sport and this Essenza. All get unique cabin colours, alloys and electric windows, while the Sport and Essenza add standard air-conditioning.
    Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl, 108bhp
    0-60mph: 10.6 seconds
    Price: £14,995
     
    - Advertisement -