Compact hatchback Nissan Note It has long gained popularity among city motorists due to its maneuverability and efficiency. But the main question that worries potential owners: How many things can you fit in the trunk? Official figures often do not reflect real practicality, especially when it comes to transporting large loads or family purchases.

In this article we will analyze not only the standard parameters of the luggage compartment of all generations Note (including rare modifications), but we will also reveal unique Nissan engineering solutions that allow you to transform a space in seconds. You'll learn how to properly fold the rear seats, what accessories can help increase space, and why this car is often chosen over crossovers for everyday use.

Official data: trunk volume by generation

The manufacturer states different figures for different markets and modifications. For example, European version Nissan Note E12 (2013-2020) has a trunk volume 355 liters as standard, while the Japanese Note E13 (2020-present) already offers 385 liters. The difference seems insignificant, but in practice these 30 liters can be decisive when transporting large bags or a baby stroller.

Here is a comparison table by generation:

Generation Years of production Trunk volume (l) Volume with seats folded (l) Features
Note E11 2006-2013 280 1332 Compact design, high roof
Note E12 2013-2020 355 1540 System Flexi-Board, folding seats 60:40
Note E13 (Japan) 2020-present 385 1650 Hybrid version, system ProPilot
Note Aura 2022-present 360 1600 Premium finish, panoramic roof

Interestingly, Japanese versions traditionally have a larger trunk due to a different rear layout. For example, Note E13 in the version for the Japanese domestic market, it is equipped with a system E-Power, where the battery is located under the trunk floor without reducing usable space.

⚠️ Attention: When buying a used one Nissan Note Be sure to check for the original trunk mat. Many owners remove it to “enlarge” the space, but this leads to premature wear of the plastic panels and corrosion of the metal.

Secrets of transformation: how to increase space

Main advantage Note is a flexible interior transformation system. Unlike many competitors, it uses not just folding backrests, but an entire engineering concept:

  • 🔧 Flexi-Board system: two-level floor with adjustable height (in complete sets Tekna And Acenta). Allows you to create a flat platform with the seats folded down or an additional compartment for small items.
  • 🪑 Folding seats 60:40: unlike a one-piece back (like Toyota Yaris), here you can fold only part of the seat, leaving space for the passenger.
  • 📦 Hidden compartments: under the trunk floor there is a niche for storing tools or a spare wheel (in versions without Run-Flat tires).
  • 🔄 Adjustable headrests: They can be recessed into the back, which adds 3-5 cm to the vertical space.

Practical test: with the right seat folded (40%) into the trunk Note E12 fits a standard baby stroller Chicco Bravo Trio (size 85×50×35 cm) without having to remove the wheels. For comparison, in Hyundai i20 of the same year of manufacture, the stroller has to be disassembled.

📊 How do you usually use the trunk of your Nissan Note?
  • For everyday shopping
  • Transportation of sports equipment
  • Family trips with a stroller
  • For work (tools, equipment)
  • Other

An important nuance: when fully loading the trunk (for example, moving), you must take into account maximum rear axle load. For Note E12 this parameter is 320 kg, and for a hybrid Note E13 — 280 kg due to the weight of the battery. Exceeding this can lead to spring sagging and uneven tire wear.

Comparison with competitors: who is more practical?

To objectively evaluate the trunk Nissan Note, let's compare it with the main rivals in the class:

  • 🚗 Toyota Yaris (XP210): 286 l (1050 l with seats folded). It loses in trunk depth by 12 cm, but gains in opening width.
  • 🚗 Honda Jazz (GE): 304 l (1314 l). Unique system Magic Seats allows the seats to be folded vertically, but the overall volume is inferior Note.
  • 🚗 Volkswagen Polo: 351 l (1125 l). Almost identical in volume, but has a higher loading threshold (78 cm versus 72 cm for Note).
  • 🚗 Kia Rio X-Line: 325 l (1050 l). Crossover style reduces usable space by 20% compared to Note E12.

Main advantage Nissan - this is trunk shape. Thanks to the almost vertical walls and high roof, it is convenient to transport bulky but light loads (for example, boxes of shoes or bags of clothes). For clarity:

Real test

What fits in the trunk of the Note E12?: As standard (without folded seats), the trunk freely includes:

- 4 bags with products from the supermarket (Perekrestok type)

- 2 suitcases measuring 24" (55x40x23 cm) plus a backpack 30 l

- Disassembled bicycle (frame + wheels)

- Stroller + bag with toys

When the left seat is folded (60%), space is added for skis up to 170 cm long or a snowboard.

However, there are also disadvantages: the narrow trunk opening (only 98 cm) can create problems when loading wide objects, for example, furniture from IKEA. For comparison, Skoda Fabia the opening is 15 cm wider.

Practical tips: how to optimize space

Even a standard trunk Note can be used more effectively if you know a few tricks:

  1. Use organizers. For example, mesh compartments Nissan Genuine Accessories (article KNE12-4M00A) allow you to divide the space into zones and prevent the movement of goods.
  2. Adjust the floor height. In versions with Flexi-Board the lower position adds 10 cm to the depth, and the upper position creates a flat area with the seats folded down.
  3. Consider the weight. Place heavy objects (such as water bottles) closer to the seat backs to maintain weight distribution.
  4. Use a roof rack. Original roof rails Nissan (article 999T5-VN000) can withstand up to 75 kg and are ideal for transporting skis or luggage on long trips.

Make sure the spare wheel is in place (on versions without run-flat)

Check the fastenings of the folding seats

Place heavy items at the bottom, closer to the backrests

Secure the load with straps or a net

Check the operation of the rear windshield wiper (important for visibility) -->

For owners of a hybrid Note E13 Do not store metal objects or liquids here as this may cause a short circuit. In the operating instructions (section 8-15) there is a complete list of items prohibited for transportation.

⚠️ Attention: When installing an additional battery or subwoofer in the trunk, be sure to consult an electrician. Incorrect connection may damage the system ProPilot Assist in versions with advanced assistants.

Real reviews from owners: pros and cons

Forum analysis (Drive2.ru, Nissan-Club.ru) and groups on social networks shows that opinions about the trunk Note highly dependent on usage style:

  • ✅ Pros:
    • 👍 "For 5 years of operation, I have never regretted my choice. Everything fit: from a bag of potatoes (50 kg) to a doghouse (size M)."
    • 👍 "The seats fold with one hand - this saves when one hand is occupied by a child."
    • 👍 "Unlike Suzuki Swift, here you can transport building materials (for example, 10 packs of laminate)."
  • ❌ Cons:
    • 👎 "Plastic trunk latches break after 3-4 years (especially in cold weather)."
    • 👎 "When fully loaded, the rear part sags, you have to pump up the shock absorbers."
    • 👎 "The hybrid version does not have a full-size spare wheel - only a spare wheel."

Interesting fact: many taxi drivers choose Note precisely because of the trunk. According to the service Yandex.Taxi, this car ranks 3rd in popularity among economy class cars due to its ability to transport 4 passengers with luggage (for example, from the airport).

💡

If you often have to transport long loads (skis, boards), pay attention to the modification Note Acenta with sunroof. You can pull a load up to 2.2 m long through it without folding the seat.

Modifications and tuning: how to increase trunk volume

For those for whom standard space is not enough, there are several proven solutions:

  1. Installation of luggage box. Models Thule Motion XT (volume 400-500 l) are ideal for Note thanks to its compact size. Important: the maximum roof load is 75 kg.
  2. Replacing rear shock absorbers. Installation of reinforced racks KYB Excel-G (article 334054) allows you to increase the permissible load by 15-20%.
  3. Removing the spare wheel. In versions with Run-Flat tires, you can free up a niche under the floor by installing a tire repair kit instead of a wheel Nissan Tyre Repair Kit (article 999T5-4M000).
  4. Seat tuning. Some workshops offer conversion of the rear sofa to a folding mechanism 40:20:40, which adds flexibility when transporting long loads.

It is worth noting that any modifications may affect the warranty. For example, installing non-original shock absorbers will void the suspension warranty in official service centers Nissan. Before making changes, we recommend that you consult your dealer or review the 10-3 in the user manual (“Modifications and their effect on the warranty”).

💡

The safest way to increase trunk space is with Genuine Nissan Accessories. They undergo the same crash tests as the vehicle itself and do not affect the warranty.

Common problems and their solutions

Even such a practical car has some “diseases” associated with the luggage compartment:

  1. Smell in the trunk. Often occurs due to stagnation of moisture in a niche under the floor. Solution: Once a month, remove the carpet and dry the area, and also check the drain holes (located under the rear bumper).
  2. Creaks and knocks. Source: plastic fastenings for folding seats. Solution: treat with silicone lubricant (for example, CRC 5-56) or install additional rubber gaskets.
  3. Water leaks. In versions with panoramic roof (Note Aura) the trunk seal may be leaking. Solution: replace the seal (part no. 80310-4M000) or contact a service center to adjust the sunroof.
  4. Problems with the electric door drive. In versions with electric trunk opening (Tekna) overload protection may trip. Solution: manually lift the lid and reset the error through the menu Settings → Service → Trunk reset.

If you encounter a malfunction of the electric drive, do not try to disassemble the mechanism yourself. B Note E13 it is connected to the system ProPilot, and incorrect intervention may lead to an error C1A99 (faulty trunk lid position sensor).

⚠️ Attention: When washing your car with high pressure, avoid directing the water jet at the trunk lock. This may damage the microswitch (part 28530-4M000), which will cause the "trunk open" lamp on the dashboard to remain on continuously.

FAQ: answers to popular questions

Is it possible to transport a gas cylinder for a summer residence in the Note's trunk?

No, this is strictly prohibited by safety regulations. In the operating instructions (section 3-14) it is clearly stated that the transportation of compressed gases, flammable liquids and caustic substances in the trunk is not permitted. For gas cylinders it is necessary to use a special roof rack with ventilation.

What is the maximum weight that can be carried in the trunk of the Note E12?

The maximum load on the rear axle is 320 kg, but taking into account the weight of the car itself and passengers, the real cargo limit in the trunk is about 200-250 kg. Exceeding can lead to:

  • Suspension spring sagging
  • Poor handling (especially at high speed)
  • Overheating of the rear brakes

To transport heavy loads, we recommend using a trailer (maximum weight of a towed trailer is 900 kg for versions with an engine HR12DE).

Will 180cm long skis fit in the Note's trunk?

Yes, but with reservations:

  • B Note E11/E12 skis up to 180 cm long will only fit when one of the rear seats is folded (40% or 60%).
  • B Note E13 with the system Divide-N-Hide You can place skis vertically in a special compartment behind the seat backs (maximum length - 185 cm).
  • For skis with bindings, you will need to remove them or use a cover to avoid damaging the interior trim.

Alternative option - roof rack with ski holder Thule SnowPack (article 793).

What is the difference between the trunk of the Japanese and European versions of the Note?

Main differences:

Parameter Japanese version (E13) European version (E12)
Volume (l) 385 355
Opening shape Rectangular (5 cm wider) Trapezoidal
Trunk floor Two-level (system Divide-N-Hide) Single level (optional Flexi-Board)
Spare wheel Dokatka or repair kit Full-size (in most trim levels)

Japanese versions are also often equipped with an additional 12V socket in the trunk and motion sensor lighting.

Can you sleep in the trunk of a Note if you fold down the seats?

Theoretically yes, but with serious caveats:

  • Length of flat area with seats folded - 175 cm (for a person up to 170 cm tall).
  • The width at the shoulders is 110 cm, at the legs it narrows to 80 cm.
  • The height from floor to ceiling is 105 cm (enough for sitting, but not for full sleep).
  • There is no ventilation in the cabin, so sleeping with the windows closed is dangerous (risk of carbon monoxide poisoning).

For a comfortable sleep you will need:

  • Remove the rear seat headrests
  • Use a thin mattress (eg Sea to Summit Comfort Plus)
  • Open a window or hatch (if any)
  • Insulate the interior with a thermal blanket (in winter)

Important: in some countries, sleeping in a car in parking lots is prohibited by law (for example, in Germany - a fine of up to 35 euros).