The Nissan Micra 1.2 DIG-S Tekna is the solution... but what is the problem? Imagine,
if you please, a scenario. Mike the Motorist wants a practical car that is kinder to the
environment than a Greenpeace manifesto. He therefore wants something with low carbon
emissions, plenty of space, and a nice equipment specification. But Mike cannot bring
himself to purchase a zero emission electric vehicle. Why? Because many of these cost
a small fortune, take hours to charge, and have a very limited range. That does not suit
Mike's “man about town” lifestyle. Furthermore, some electric vehicle battery packs are
unproven long term, so who knows how long they will last? And who knows how much - or
more likely how little - today's electric cars will be worth in the near future.
£1 scrap, maybe.
But why is the Nissan Micra 1.2 DIG-S Tekna the salvation. For starters, its emissions are
a rock-bottom 99g/km. That earns Mike a clear conscience and free road tax. The Micra
also averages a fantastic 65.7mpg rising to 76.3mpg on the extra-urban cycle. Also, it
can be refuelled within minutes anywhere in the country - rather than overnight in a few
selected locations. And the Micra – which is manufactured by a company with a proven
reliability record – should maintain a fair percentage of its value for the foreseeable future.
This complements the easy to live with five door layout, 265-litre boot, solid handling, and
nice equipment specification. Highlights include the electronic stability programme, climate
control, and parking sensors. All from £13,750. Mike the Motorist has never been so thrilled.
By Stephen Turvil
Fri, 21 Sep 2012
