Although the last new Nissan Note was manufactured in 2017 it remains a popular choice here on MHH Japanese Cars. The Note has been a popular small family car since its introduction in 2006 and has undergone various facelifts and improvements over time. It is a well-rounded and established vehicle with low CO² emissions and was targeted at the supermini sector as a direct rival to the Honda Jazz.
Driving
Although as ever the options on this car vary, there are not too many regional variations. Broadly speaking the Nissan Note offers a choice of three engines and stop/start is standard. On most models this means that CO² emissions can be as as low as 95g/km. Drive is through either a manual gearbox or a CVT (constantly variable transmission) automatic.
Don’t expect strong motive power; that’s not what this car is about. There’s a 1.2L petrol engine that delivers 80hp at peak revs and really quite strong torque of 110Nm at 4,000 rpm. This translates to combined fuel economy of 60.1mpg, while CO² emissions are 109g/km. Moving up the scale the 1.2L DIG-S engine generates 99hp at 5,600 and offers 142Nm of torque. CO² emissions are again 99g/km with the manual gearbox or slightly higher at 119g/km with the CVT transmission.
Completing the Nissan Note engine range more recently is a four-cylinder 1.5L turbo-diesel. This 90hp unit emits 95g/km of CO² and offers an improved fuel consumption figure of 78.5mpg.
One first on this car in the small car sector is the addition of premium technology in the form of the Nissan Safety Shield (regionally variable). Linking three advanced systems, NSS acts as an intelligent co-pilot to the driver. The system combines Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning and Moving Object Detection.
Although not a car for the enthusiastic driver, the most recent versions are reasonably accomplished on the road. Roll is resisted admirably, but the seats are not so laterally supportive. This is a car for the urban environment after all. Accept that and the owner will enjoy the ride.
On The Inside
The Nissan Note only offers rake adjustment for the steering wheel unfortunately, so taller drivers have to reach further. The seat does offer height adjustment, however. Once adjusted though the latest Note has an interesting cabin with a gloss black centre console that looks smart. The controls are clearly and intuitively laid out and the buttons are large. Some models have climate control.
Handling is not a priority for this car but the Nissan Note comfort will suit most prospective buyers. The good news is that overall the Note is actually pretty good in the comfort department with a surprising amount of leg room for rear seat passengers. Children will be fine. The Note is very well built, given the price tag, and scores well for reliability.
Should you buy one? Well, if the majority of your driving is in urban or suburban areas and you need an efficient, frugal, compact yet sufficiently roomy car to move the family about then the Nissan Note makes for a very good car purchase.
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