THE new Micra will hit the UK streets from mid-January, priced from £7,495 for the 1.0 E three-door.

According to Nissan, the car’s original release date was January 23, but public demand led the company to bring the launch forward.

At last year’s Birmingham Motor Show, more than 9,000 people asked for information on the new car.

The extra spec and power of the S model adds £500 to the E. From the S, it’s £1,000 to move to the SE and another £1,000 for the SX or SVE.

Where available, the 1.4-litre engine adds £300 to the 1.2-litre and the 1.5-litre dCi 65 PS £800.

Five doors are another £500 and automatic transmission £900 (to a 1.2 or 1.4).

The Micra range is topped by the £11,695 1.4 SVE five-door automatic.

Every Micra now has twin airbags, electric power steering, a CD player, electric windows, remote control central locking, a 65 PS engine and anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and Nissan Brake Assist.

Nissan says all these extra goodies are worth more than the £245 increase in start price - not including the new friendly lighting system which illuminates the driver’s way home at night after the engine’s been turned off.

The Micra also has the smallest turning circle in its class - 9.2 metres.

Prices are £7,495 for three doors, or £7,995 for five.