Company Nissan introduced the third generation of the model Note (index E13) in 2020, radically updating the design, technical content and positioning. This subcompact van was the first in the brand’s line to be built on a modular platform. CMF-B, which improved spatial efficiency and dynamic performance. Unlike its predecessor E12, the new version received a hybrid power plant e-Power in the basic configuration, which brought it to a new level of efficiency and environmental friendliness.
Model Note E13 is aimed at city dwellers who value practicality, low fuel consumption and modern technology. In Japan the car is sold under the name Nissan Note Aura, and is positioned on the European market as an affordable alternative Toyota Yaris Hybrid And Honda Jazz. In this article we will analyze technical features, typical problems, nuances of operation and we will give recommendations on the choice of equipment.
Technical specifications Nissan Note E13
Under the hood Note E13 an exclusively hybrid system is installed e-Power, which combines a gasoline engine and an electric motor. Unlike classical hybrids (for example, Toyota Prius), here the internal combustion engine works only as a generator to charge the battery, and the wheels are driven exclusively by an electric motor. This scheme ensures smooth acceleration and minimal fuel consumption.
The basic version is equipped with a naturally aspirated engine HR12DE volume 1.2 l (79 hp), which is paired with an electric motor with a power 94 hp (in total - 116 hp). Transmission - continuously variable variator Xtronic, adapted for the hybrid system. Acceleration to 100 km/h takes 10.3 seconds, and the maximum speed is limited at 160 km/h.
- 🔋 Hybrid system type: e-Power (serial-parallel, without recharging from a socket)
- ⛽ Fuel consumption: 3.8–4.2 l/100 km (combined cycle)
- 📏 Dimensions: 4055×1695×1540 mm (wheelbase - 2620 mm)
- 🚗 Trunk volume: 354 l (428 l with rear seats folded)
Feature Note E13 is a regenerative braking system e-Pedal Step, which allows you to control the speed of the car with almost one pedal. When you release the accelerator, the car actively brakes, converting kinetic energy into electrical energy to recharge the battery. This not only makes driving in traffic jams easier, but also increases your range.
- Classic hybrid (Toyota Prius)
- e-Power (Nissan Note)
- Plug-in hybrid (Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV)
- Fully electric (Nissan Leaf)
Comparison with competitors: Note E13 vs Toyota Yaris Hybrid vs Honda Jazz
In the subcompact hybrid segment Nissan Note E13 competes with Toyota Yaris Hybrid (XP210) and Honda Jazz (GR). All three models offer hybrid powertrains, but with different technical solutions. For example, Yaris uses a classic hybrid system Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive, where the internal combustion engine is directly involved in the movement, and Jazz equipped with a system e:HEV with two electric motors.
| Parameter | Nissan Note E13 | Toyota Yaris Hybrid | Honda Jazz Hybrid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hybrid type | e-Power (generator + electric motor) | Parallel (ICE + electric motor) | e:HEV (two electric motors) |
| Total power | 116 hp | 116 hp | 109 hp |
| Fuel consumption | 3.8–4.2 l/100 km | 3.5–3.9 l/100 km | 4.0–4.3 l/100 km |
| Trunk volume | 354 l | 286 l | 298 l |
| Price (base) | from 1.8 million ₽ | from 1.9 million ₽ | from 2.0 million ₽ |
The Note E13 beats its competitors in terms of trunk space and price, but loses in acceleration dynamics and fuel efficiency on the highway. For example, Yaris Hybrid uses less fuel thanks to a more efficient hybrid system, but has a 20% smaller trunk. Honda Jazz, in turn, offers a unique system Magic Seats with the ability to completely fold the front passenger seat, which makes it more versatile for transporting long cargo.
⚠️ Attention: When choosing between Note E13 And Yaris Hybrid Please note that service Toyota in Russia it is better developed, and spare parts are cheaper. However Nissan offers a more spacious interior and original design.
Typical problems and weaknesses of the Nissan Note E13
Despite the modern design, Note E13 has a number of characteristic disadvantages that you should know about before purchasing. Most owner complaints are related to electronics And suspension, as well as with the features of the hybrid system. Let's look at the main problems:
- 🔌 Problems with the e-Power system: In cold weather (-20°C and below), starting difficulties may occur due to the discharge of the 12V battery. It is recommended to install a high-capacity battery (for example,
70Ahinstead of standard55Ah). - 🛞 Knocks in the front suspension: Most often associated with wear of the stabilizer struts or silent blocks of the levers. They appear on uneven surfaces after 30–40 thousand kilometers.
- 📱 Multimedia glitches: In basic configurations the system NissanConnect may freeze when connecting a smartphone via Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. Solved by flashing or resetting the settings.
- 🔊 Interior noise: At speeds above 100 km/h, wind noise from the A-pillars is noticeable. Eliminated by installing additional sound insulation.
One more nuance - variator resource. Although Xtronic in Note E13 adapted for a hybrid system; during aggressive driving (sharp acceleration, towing), it may be necessary to change the oil after 60 thousand km (instead of the declared 120 thousand km). Owners also note that when driving at high speeds (120+ km/h), the engine operates at its limit, which affects comfort.
More about the Xtronic CVT
The Xtronic CVT in the Note E13 is equipped with an improved cooling system and adaptive switching logic. However, when towing a trailer weighing more than 500 kg or frequent off-road travel, it is recommended to install an additional oil cooler. Otherwise, the belt may overheat and accelerated wear of the cones.
Options and prices: what to choose?
In Russia Nissan Note E13 officially offered in three trim levels: Comfort, Elegance And Tekna. Basic version Comfort includes LED headlights, climate control, a multimedia system with an 8-inch screen and a rear view camera. Version Elegance adds leather steering wheel, heated front seats and system Nissan Safety Shield (adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition). Flagship Tekna equipped with a panoramic roof, premium audio system Bose and keyless entry function.
Prices for new Note E13 in 2026 will start from 1.8 million rubles for Comfort and reach 2.3 million rubles for Tekna. On the secondary market, 2020–2022 models can be found for 1.3–1.7 million rubles, but when buying a used car, be sure to check:
☑️ What to check when buying a used Note E13
If your budget is limited, it makes sense to consider Comfort with additional option Safety Shield (about +100 thousand rubles). Ideal for family use Elegance, as it includes all the necessary safety and comfort systems. Tekna justified only for those who value premium options like a panoramic roof and audio system Bose.
When purchasing a new car from an authorized dealer, ask about the possibility of a free extended warranty package. Some showrooms offer an increase in the warranty for the hybrid system to 5 years or 150 thousand km.
Operation and maintenance: advice from owners
Hybrid system e-Power requires a special approach to maintenance. Here are key tips from experienced owners Note E13:
- Changing the oil in the variator: Every 60 thousand km (despite the official 120 thousand km). Use original liquid
NS-3. - 12V battery: Change every 3–4 years or install a higher capacity battery (for example, Varta Silver Dynamic 70Ah).
- Brake system: Pads and discs last longer due to recuperation, but require inspection every 40 thousand km.
- Tires: Optimal size -
185/60 R16. Suitable for winter Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 or Michelin X-Ice North 4.
Pay special attention interior heating in winter. B Note E13 uses a heat pump which is more efficient than a traditional heater, but at temperatures below -15°C the engine may need to be pre-warmed (via mobile app NissanConnect Services). The owners also recommend:
- ❄️ Use winter driving mode (
ECO Mode), which limits power and optimizes recuperation. - 🔌 Connect interior heater from the 220V network (optional in
Tekna), if the car spends the night on the street. - 🛠️ Check coolant level in a hybrid system every 20 thousand km (in service).
⚠️ Attention: Don't ignore the error Check Hybrid System on the dashboard! It may indicate a problem with the inverter, high-voltage battery, or sensors. Diagnostics should only be carried out by official equipment service Nissan Consult.
Tuning and improvements: what can be improved?
Owners Note E13 often complain about poor sound insulation And soft suspension. Fortunately, these shortcomings can be eliminated without major investment. Here are the popular modifications:
- 🔇 Noise insulation: Installing additional layers StopNoise or Shumoff on doors, arches and floors. Cost: from 30 thousand rubles.
- 🛠️ Suspension: Replacing stabilizer struts with TRW or Febi (solves the knocking problem). For sporty driving - springs H&R (-30 mm).
- 💡 Light: Replacing standard halogen lamps with LED lamps Osram Night Breaker (permitted alternative).
- 📱 Multimedia: Installation Android car radios with support Wireless CarPlay (For example, Pioneer SPH-DA130DAB).
For lovers of dynamic driving, there is chip tuning of the hybrid system, which increases the output of the electric motor by 10–15%. However, such improvements void the warranty and may reduce battery life. Alternative - installation sports air filter (For example, K&N 33-2904), which improves throttle response.
The best improvements for the Note E13 are noise insulation and replacement of the stabilizer struts. They address the main complaints of owners and do not affect the warranty.
Owner reviews: pros and cons
On forums and social networks Note E13 collects mostly positive reviews. Owners praise the car for efficiency, reliability And spacious salon.among the main advantages:
- ✅ Fuel consumption: 4.0–4.5 l/100 km in the city (real figures).
- ✅ Convenience: High seating position, large trunk, functional interior.
- ✅ Reliability: Rare breakdowns in the first 100 thousand km (with proper maintenance).
Among the disadvantages most often mentioned are:
- ❌ Spare parts price: Expensive original parts (for example, a stabilizer link costs ~5 thousand rubles).
- ❌ Noise: On the highway you can hear wind noise and the engine running at high speeds.
- ❌ Dynamics: Acceleration to 100 km/h in 10.3 seconds is not enough for overtaking on the highway.
Typical owner comments:
“I drove 15 thousand km in six months - consumption is 4.2 l/100 km. The car is ideal for the city, but on the highway you have to get used to the noise.” — Alexey, Moscow
“I bought the Note E13 instead of the Yaris Hybrid - I don’t regret it! The trunk is larger, but in terms of efficiency there is almost no difference. The only negative is the weak heating of the cabin in winter.” — Dmitry, St. Petersburg
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Note E13
Can you tow a trailer with the Note E13?
Yes, but with restrictions. Maximum trailer weight without brakes - 500 kg, with brakes - 900 kg. When towing heavy loads, it is recommended to install an additional CVT cooling radiator and avoid long trips at high speeds.
What is the battery life of the Note E13?
Official resource for high voltage battery - 160 thousand km or 8 years. In practice, with careful use, it lasts up to 200–250 thousand km. The cost of replacement is from 300 thousand rubles (in the official service).
What kind of oil to pour into the HR12DE engine?
Recommended oil - 5W-30 with permission Nissan KE900-90470. Suitable analogues: Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30, Liqui Moly Special Tec AA 5W-30. Replacement interval - every 15 thousand km or once a year.
Does the Note E13 have all-wheel drive?
No, Note E13 Available only with front-wheel drive. Alternative in the line Nissan — crossover Kicks e-Power with a similar hybrid system, but with optional all-wheel drive.
Can I charge the Note E13 from a wall outlet?
No, e-Power - this is not a plug-in hybrid. The battery is charged only from recuperation and engine operation. For mains charging, consider Nissan Leaf or Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV.