MAJOR changes to the Nissan Micra line-up have been announced, resulting in significant specification enhancements and some price cuts. The range-topping Micra Si has the biggest changes with standard specification now including power steering, passenger airbag, rear head restraints, sports aluminium gear knob and single CD player.

Available from next month powered by a 1.3-litre 16v engine, the three-door model costs £9,995 on the road - the model previously cost £9,885. The three-door 1.0 litre Si has been dropped. The GX now has the option of combined passive and active safety packs - ABS brakes and twin airbags - for £690 - although both packs are available individually at £395 each.

GX prices now start at £9,095 on the road for the three-door 1.0 16v (previously £9,485) with the three-door 1.3 16v at £9,495 (£9,885), five-door 1.0 16v at £9,575 (£9,920) and five-door 1.3 16v at £9,975 (£10,320). At the entry-level, the Micra Equation is replaced by the Micra Profile, with models reduced by £400 on a like-for-like basis. The three-door 1.0 16v Profile is £7,995 on the road - the outgoing equivalent Equation cost £8,395.