NISSAN has re-invented the Micra - and the latest model, unveiled at the Paris Motor Show. is as revolutionary as the original.

For the company's designers have totally abandoned the curvy styling which made the original Micra such a hit with younger drivers and gone for something more dynamic, altogether sharper and decidely more edgy.

In fact the Micra Gen5, as it will be known, represents a complete redefinition of the Micra style. This is a car with the wow factor - light years on from the cutesy styling of the original.

The Micra Gen5 is styled to turn heads, with a dramatic body length-defining character line. It is lower, wider and longer than its predecessors and has more interior space. It also has advanced new lower capacity turbo drivetrains and a full complement of innovative safety features.

Exterior and interior personalisation options will allow for the creation of 125 different variations, enabling owners to stamp their own style on their new Micra.

This Gen5 will come with technological features normally found in larger cars including Lane Departure Prevention, Intelligent Emergency Braking with pedestrian recognition, Intelligent Around View Monitor, Traffic Sign Recognition, High Beam Assist and Blind Spot Warning.

Together, these advanced safety features are the building blocks for Autonomous Driving and are an integral part of Nissan Intelligent Mobility, says the company.

The interior will feature a 7-inch full colour central display, providing access to the audio system, satellite navigation, mobile phone, downloadable apps and Siri voice control via Apple CarPlay.

When the car arrives in showrooms next year it will be available with a choice of a 0.9-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine or a 1.5-litre diesel, both developing 90hp. The range will be joined soon after by a naturally aspirated 73hp 1.0-litre petrol engine.

Says Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn: "When the first Micra appeared more than 30 years ago, it marked a revolution in the small hatchback segment and opened a new chapter for Nissan. The fifth generation Micra is just as revolutionary, and will raise expectations for what a hatchback can, and should, deliver to its customers."