The return of the Nissan Micra marked another exciting addition to the growing electric supermini market. Built on the same AmpR Small platform as the award-winning Renault 5, the new Micra shares much of its technology with its French sibling, but each car brings its own personality to the road.

If you're considering a compact electric hatchback for business leasing, salary sacrifice or personal leasing, here's how the two compare.

Shared Platform, Different Character

Renault and Nissan have a long history of sharing technology, and the new Micra is no exception. Beneath the bodywork, both cars feature the same battery options, electric motors and overall dimensions.

However, Nissan has worked hard to give the Micra its own identity.

While the Renault 5 embraces retro styling inspired by the original 1970s icon, the Micra takes a more modern approach. Rounded LED lighting, cleaner body lines and a softer overall design create a car that feels distinctly Nissan rather than simply a rebadged Renault.

How does the Nissan Micra and Renualt 5 compare?

Performance and Driving Experience

Mechanically, there's very little to separate the two.

Both models are available with:

• 40kWh battery

• 52kWh battery

• Up to 250 miles WLTP range (depending on specification)

• Front-wheel drive

• Fast charging capability

On the road, the differences are subtle.

The Renault 5 feels slightly firmer and a little more playful through corners, while the Nissan Micra delivers a calmer, more comfort-focused drive. Steering, acceleration and overall performance remain extremely similar thanks to the shared platform, making both excellent choices for everyday commuting and urban driving.

Official figures suggest the Renault 5 has a marginal advantage in efficiency and range, although in real-world driving the difference is likely to be minimal.

Interior

Step inside and you'll immediately notice familiar surroundings.

Both vehicles share:

• Digital driver display

• Central touchscreen infotainment system

• Similar driving position

• Comparable rear passenger space

The layout is largely identical, although Nissan has introduced different materials, colours and trim finishes to give the cabin its own look and feel.

Drivers looking for a more understated interior may prefer the Micra, while the Renault offers brighter colours and a stronger retro theme.

Which Offers Better Value?

Pricing is expected to be closely matched across both ranges.

The Renault 5 currently offers slightly broader trim options, while Nissan simplifies its range with well-equipped specifications that include many of the features buyers now expect, including advanced driver assistance systems and connected infotainment.

For salary sacrifice drivers and company car users, Benefit-in-Kind savings will be identical, as both models fall into the same low-emission tax category.

Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Renault 5 and Nissan Micra comes down to personal preference rather than capability.

Choose the Renault 5 if you want:

• Eye-catching retro styling

• A slightly sportier driving feel

• Bright, characterful interior design

Choose the Nissan Micra if you prefer:

• Modern, understated styling

• A more comfort-focused drive

• Familiar Nissan design and practicality

With shared engineering, strong electric range and affordable running costs, both models are set to become popular choices for drivers making the switch to electric.