IT was all-change for the Nissan Micra when fourth generation models of the popular supermini hit the road earlier this year.

While a fresh style, lighter weight, new platform, extra kit and better interior space are all elements of the latest model, the biggest decision was to embrace petrol power, exclusively.

Mindful of the fact that choosing diesel cars was more expensive both in the showroom and at the pumps, the Japanese company opted to axe oil-burning versions of the Micra.

Instead there is now a simple drivetrain choice - a new three-cylinder 1.2-litre petrol engine available in two states of tune and mated to either a five-speed manual or continuously variable CVT transmission.

The 79bhp version is perfect for its city and suburban habitat. It returns a healthy average fuel figure of around the 50 miles per gallon mark, an even healthier emissions level of 115g/km and is pleasant to drive, though I found the gearshift a bit rubbery.

And for squeezing into tight parking spots and manoeuvring around congested areas it has the most fantastic turning circle.

Out on faster roads it performs adequately once up to speed and feels stable so long as there are no strong crosswinds.

Nissan has set great store by its new V - for Versatile - platform on which the Micra is constructed and which, in time, will also form the basis for a new saloon and an MPV.

Even though it is slightly larger than the outgoing Micra - the wheelbase has grown by 20mm - the platform has been engineered to be more rigid for better handling and a refined ride, but with a lower weight.

Inside, there's now a touch more cabin space with better headroom and improved space for rear passengers. Two adults plus a child in between is a workable rear combination and pretty good for a car of this size.

As for styling, the Nissan designers chose what they call a ‘connected cocoon' approach. For instance the dashboard has  a twin bubble theme which matches the circular instrument binnacle with a similarly shaped glovebox ahead of the passenger. There's also an upper storage area above it.

The idea is practical but the quality of the plastics feels cheap and the whole interior is rather dull and boring compared to rival models that go for a more funky, colourful style.

There are a few thoughtful features though, like a neat bag holder incorporated into the front passenger seat to prevent bags rolling around the cabin when the car is on the move.

Trim grades are the familiar entry-level Visia followed by Acenta and then Tekna, all coming with electric power steering, six airbags, electric front windows, Bluetooth phone integration and ESP as standard, which is unusual for city cars.

Top-selling Acenta grade adds 15-inch alloy wheels, climate control air-con and cruise control, and the tested model included the optional £400 Nissan Connect set-up which comes as standard on top spec Tekna.

The system combines touch screen sat-nav with Bluetooth and audio streaming plus Aux-in and USB slots and six speakers.