Nissan refreshed the third generation of the Micra in 2005, three years after the model introduction, and included a more powerful version used only on the 3-door hatchback body.
The European market was highly competitive in the small segment. Most carmakers already had a vehicle that could tick all the boxes for a vehicle of that size. Nissan had to innovate and keep the Micra’s image fresh if it wanted to get better sales results.

With a shape that could fit into the bio-design trend, which was already gone, the Micra tried to get those customers who didn’t appreciate the new-edge-design direction. Its overall appearance was closer to a bubble than to a sharp knife. The front fascia featured a grille split in two by a slat and two oval-shaped headlights mounted high enough to be protected from minor scratches. From its sides, the three-door Micra featured an arched greenhouse and dark edges for the rear side windows. The carmaker added a roof spoiler on top of the tailgate for the SR version.

Inside, Nissan left the same grey-color interior with a curved dashboard that featured the radio mounted between the center air vents. For the sportiest version, it included white-dials in the instrument cluster and aluminum pedals. Unlike its five-door sibling, the three-door version offered tilt and tumble front seats.

Under the hood, the carmaker offered a choice of seven engines. Nissan carried over part of them from Renault. Interestingly, the SR version was available with either a twin-cam 1.6-liter engine or a 1.5-liter turbo-diesel, producing 110 hp.