NISSAN is set to stun the motoring world with a cabriolet version of its new North-East Micra - with a folding metal roof.

The car, called the Micra C+C and due to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show this week, is currently billed as a concept vehicle.

But if demand is strong enough, the vehicle could be given the go-ahead.

The current Micra, which is due to be phased out ahead of the new hatchback's launch, lacked a so-called "halo car" - an aspirational sports model that could lift the entire range. The new Micra C+C could be such a car for the new range.

Irrespective of whether or not the cabriolet goes ahead, the new Micra is crucial to the long-term fortunes of Nissan's Sunderland plant.

Factory bosses believe the new car is good enough to set new class standards - just as its predecessor did in 1992.

Micra is currently Nissan's biggest seller in Europe and the new car has an important role to play in the Japanese manufacturer's plans to increase sales across the EU.

It also shares its chassis with the next Renault Clio, a result of the strategic alliance Nissan forged with the French manufacturer several years ago.

The old Micra was criticised by some for looking too cute - its rounded looks appealed much more to women than men - something designers have kept in mind.

Shiro Nakamura, Nissan's senior vice president of design, said the new generation "shows a more assertive character while keeping the friendly allure of the current model".

Although the new model remains a compact city car, clever design work means it is appreciably larger inside than the model it replaces. The new Micra will be among the roomiest cars in its class.

Trials of Nissan's new baby have been taking place on North-East roads for sometime. The Northern Echo had the first pictures of a Micra undergoing trials last month.

Nissan's small car designs have always been at the forefront of technology and the new model is no exception.

Owners will use a "smart" ignition key that opens the doors automatically when they approach. In the same way, the card does not have to be inserted into the dashboard for the driver to start the engine.

The Paris Motor Show also marks the debut of a revised Almera range which is also manufactured in Sunderland.

Key changes include a new look front end, revised rear styling and a modestly revamped interior.