Nissan has given its Micra a substantial makeover to make it more appealing to a wider audience thanks to quirky new looks and a raft of technology as standard.

The changes start outside where the new grille brings the ‘face’ of the Micra in line with the rest of the Nissan range. The company says the new bonnet, wings, headlights and front bumper give the Micra a more assertive look.

The interior now benefits from dash-mounted aux-in and USB slots and will also be available with the latest NissanConnect navigation and communication system, which has new features and a bigger 5.8-inch screen (up from 5-inches) with chromed controls.

Under the bonnet the Micra keeps the old engine line-up with a choice of two engines – the entry-level 80 bhp 1.2-litre petrol which emits 115 g/km of CO2 and a 1.2-litre petrol DIG-S unit, which is capable of 68.9mpg and emits 95g/km of CO2.

Micra product manager for Europe, Helen Perry, said: "New Micra benefits from all the attributes of the current K13 model such as strong performance, handling and advanced technology, but with enhanced quality and a dynamic new look. The next chapter of the Micra story has begun.”