Table of Contents
Design and Styling
The Renault 5 and the Nissan Micro share the same electric platform, yet their exteriors tell two different stories. The 5 draws on the iconic 1970s hatchback, with a nod to the original badge and a slightly sharper silhouette. The Micro, meanwhile, sports a rounder shape, a more contemporary front fascia and a distinctive “ice‑cream scoop” roof line that hints at Japanese design cues. Both cars carry the same battery architecture, but the Micro’s styling is noticeably more modern, while the 5 retains a classic feel that many enthusiasts appreciate.
Interior and Features
Inside, the two vehicles are almost indistinguishable. Both use the same dashboard layout, a digital driver display and a Google‑based infotainment system on higher trims. The 5 offers a range‑topping “Iconic 5” trim that adds adjustable lumbar support and a denim‑inspired seat made from recycled bottles, a feature absent from the Micro’s base models. The Micro, however, includes paddle‑shaped controls on the steering wheel that allow drivers to tweak regenerative braking and trigger a one‑pedal mode – a convenience that the 5 will only receive in future updates.
Performance and Handling
On the road, both cars feel like well‑balanced small EVs. The 5 accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 7.9 seconds, a tenth of a second faster than the Micro’s 8.0 seconds. Steering is light and responsive, with the 5 offering a slightly firmer feel that some drivers find more engaging. The Micro’s regenerative paddles give it a subtle edge in one‑pedal driving, but the difference is marginal. Overall, neither car shows a dramatic advantage in speed or handling, and the choice comes down to personal preference.
Practicality and Space
Both hatchbacks provide similar boot capacity, with a 60/40 split that allows four carry‑on suitcases in either vehicle. Rear seating is cramped for taller passengers, a common issue in compact EVs. The 5’s interior is slightly more spacious due to its sharper lines, but the Micro’s rounder shape does not compromise cargo space. Neither model offers a front trunk, so the rear compartment is the primary storage area. In everyday use, the practical differences are negligible.
Efficiency, Cost and Grants
Efficiency tests revealed a striking gap: the Micro averaged 3.76 miles per kWh over 133 miles, while the 5 managed 3.39 miles per kWh. The discrepancy is largely attributed to tire rolling resistance, as the Micro uses softer tires that reduce energy loss. In terms of cost, the 5 is priced roughly £2,000 lower than the Micro, thanks to a higher government grant eligibility. The Micro falls into band 2, receiving £1,500 off, whereas the 5’s 52 kWh battery qualifies for the full £3,750 grant. Over three years, the 5’s lower purchase price and better resale value make it the more economical choice, even when factoring in charging costs.
Final Verdict
Both the Renault 5 and the Nissan Micro are essentially the same electric platform dressed in different skins. The 5 offers a lower price, a slightly better grip on the road, and a more classic aesthetic, while the Micro provides a modern look and a few extra convenience features like paddle‑controlled regenerative braking. For buyers who value cost savings and a familiar design, the 5 emerges as the winner. Those who prefer a fresher appearance and one‑pedal driving may lean toward the Micro, but the difference is marginal. Ultimately, the choice hinges on which small EV feels more at home in your daily life.