Nissan Note Nismo S: sporty character in a compact package

Nissan Note Nismo S - this is not just a hatchback, but a real “hot” version of the popular model, created by the division NISMO (Nissan Motorsport). The car combines the practicality of a city compact with the dynamics and style of a sports car, making it a unique offering on the market. Unlike standard Note, version Nismo S received an aggressive body kit, modified suspension and improved dynamics - all without losing comfort and efficiency.

The model was introduced in 2016 as a limited edition, but quickly gained popularity among enthusiasts due to its balanced characteristics. Under the hood Nismo S hiding the same 1.6-liter petrol engine HR16DE, but with a re-flashed electronic control system, which adds to it up to 10 hp additional power compared to the standard version. How are things going with handling and appearance? Let's take a closer look.

Technical specifications: what's hidden under the hood of the Nissan Note Nismo S?

With my heart Nissan Note Nismo S is a naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine HR16DE with a volume of 1.6 liters, which in the basic configuration develops 117 hp. However, engineers NISMO made changes to the ECU firmware, which increased the output to 126 hp at 6000 rpm. Torque remained at 154 Nm, but thanks to the modified transmission and short-throw gearbox, acceleration to 100 km/h takes only 9.9 seconds - 0.8 seconds faster than standard Note.

Particular attention is paid to the suspension: front strut MacPherson and the rear semi-independent beam received stiffer springs and shock absorbers, as well as anti-roll bars of increased diameter. The braking system remains the same (front discs and rear drums), but the pedal has become more responsive thanks to a modified booster. The engine is paired with either a 5-speed manual or a CVT. Xtronic CVT with manual mode and steering wheel paddle shifters - the latter option is more popular in the secondary market.

• 🔧 Engine: 1.6 HR16DE (126 hp, 154 Nm)
• ⚡ Acceleration 0-100 km/h: 9.9 s (manual transmission) / 10.5 s (CVT)
• ⛽ Fuel consumption: 6.2 l/100 km (combined cycle)
• 📏 Ground clearance: 145 mm (5 mm lower than standard Note)

Despite the sporting orientation, Nismo S retained practicality: the trunk volume is 354 liters, and with the rear seats folded - 1171 liters. This makes the car a universal choice for those who value both dynamics and functionality.

Exterior design: aggressive in every millimeter

The first thing that catches your eye when you see Nissan Note Nismo S, is his aerodynamic body kit, designed with racing experience in mind. The front bumper received large air intakes with red accents, and the radiator grille was painted in glossy black. The side skirts and rear diffuser not only give the car a sporty appearance, but also improve downforce at high speeds.

Wheel arches widened to accommodate 17-inch alloy wheels Nismo with tires 205/45 R17 - one size larger than the base model. The taillights are darkened, and the trunk lid bears the inscription "Nismo S" in red and black colors. The color palette includes exclusive shades: Brilliant White Pearl, Blade Silver Metallic And Storm White with a black roof - the latter option looks especially impressive.

Design element	Differences from the base Note	Functional purpose
Front bumper	Large air intakes, red accents	Improved brake and engine cooling
Side Skirts	Angular profile, black plastic	Reduced air turbulence along the body
Rear spoiler	Larger angle of attack, integrated brake light	Increased downforce at speeds above 120 km/h
Wheels	17 inches (vs 15-16 for the basic version)	Better handling and visual sportiness

The interior has also undergone changes: sports seats with improved lateral support are covered in a combination of fabric and Alcantara with red stitching. A flat-bottomed steering wheel with perforated leather and aluminum pedals with rubber inserts emphasize the racing character of the model. The dashboard received a red backlight, and a plate with the car's serial number appeared on the center console - a reminder of the limited series.

Handling and behavior on the road: is it worth the wait?

The main question that worries potential buyers is: how much Nismo S really sportier than standard Note? Answer - yes, but with reservations. A stiffer suspension and low-profile tires make the car sharper in corners, reducing body roll. However, on Russian roads with their unevenness this can result in discomfort: every joint and hole resonates more noticeably in the cabin than in the basic version.

The steering wheel has become more informative, but still remains light - this is a plus for city driving, but a minus for sports driving. CVT Xtronic CVT, despite the manual mode, it does not provide the same drive as a manual transmission. But it is more reliable and more economical: fuel consumption in the combined cycle does not exceed 6.5 liters per 100 km. For comparison: Honda Jazz RS with a similar engine it consumes 0.3-0.5 liters more.

⚠️ Attention: When installing winter tires on 17-inch wheels Nismo S choose tires with a profile height of at least 50 mm. Low-profile tires (40-45 mm) in combination with a rigid suspension can lead to damage to the discs on bumps.

• 🚗 Handling advantages:
  • Minimal roll in corners
  • Precise steering
  • Good directional stability at speed
• 🔧 Cons:
  • Suspension stiffness on bad roads
  • The variator “stumbles” during sharp accelerations
  • Low ground clearance (145 mm) limits cross-country ability

How does the Nismo S perform on the track?

At speeds above 120 km/h, the car demonstrates good stability thanks to its aerodynamic body kit. However, due to the short wheelbase (2600 mm), the rear axle may “bounce” on uneven surfaces. In such cases, it is recommended to reduce the speed or use the "Sport" mode for firmer damping.

Comparison with competitors: who is better?

In the "hot hatchback" class Nissan Note Nismo S there are several direct competitors. Let's look at their key differences:

Model	Power, hp	Acceleration 0-100 km/h, s	Price on the secondary market, ₽	Features
Nissan Note Nismo S	126	9.9	1.2–1.5 million	Limited edition, sporty design, CVT or manual transmission
Honda Jazz RS	130	9.5	1.3–1.6 million	More spacious interior, CVT only
Toyota Yaris GRMN	218	6.3	2.5–3.0 million	Supercharged engine, manual transmission only, rare
Suzuki Swift Sport	140	8.1	1.4–1.8 million	100 kg lighter, manual transmission only, rigid suspension

Nismo S occupies the golden mean: it is cheaper Yaris GRMN, but more dynamic than the basic one Jazz RS. Its main advantage is unique design and limited series, which makes the model collectible. However, if clean dynamics are important to you, it's worth taking a closer look at Swift Sport or wait for it to appear on the market Nissan Micra Nismo (if it ever officially appears in Russia).

Tuning and modifications: how to improve Nismo S?

Even in factory configuration Note Nismo S looks aggressive, but enthusiasts are finding ways to make it even angrier. Let's start with external tuning:

• 🎨 Vinyl stickers: stripe on the hood, mirrors in body color, dimming headlights.
• 🔥 Exhaust system: replacing the limit switch with Nismo or Tanabe (increases sound, but not power).
• 💨 Cold air intake: for example, from K&N or Injen (gives +3-5 hp).
• 🛠️ Suspension: springs Tein or H&R to reduce ground clearance by 20-30 mm.

Regarding engine, then the possibilities here are limited: atmospheric HR16DE doesn't like major modifications. The maximum you can count on without loss of reliability:

• 🔧 Chip tuning: ECU flashing (up to +15 hp, but risk of loss of warranty).
• ⚙️ Issue 4-2-1: collector from DC Sports (improves performance at high speeds).
• ⛽ Fuel: switching to 98 gasoline (increases output by 2-3 hp).

⚠️ Attention: Installing a turbo kit on HR16DE requires strengthening the cylinder block and replacing the pistons. Without these modifications, the engine will last no more than 20-30 thousand km. The cost of a full-fledged turbo kit (including tuning) starts from 400 thousand rubles - it is often cheaper to sell Nismo S and buy GT-R on credit.

A smarter option is to focus on chassis and brakes:

• 🔄 Stabilizer links: polyurethane bushings from Whiteline.
• 🛑 Brake pads: Ferodo DS2500 for track or Brembo for the street.
• 🎯 Wheel alignment: setting negative camber (-1.5°) for better handling.

Owner reviews: pros and cons in real use

To form an objective opinion about Nissan Note Nismo S, we analyzed reviews from owners on forums (including Drive2 And Nissan-Club.ru). Here's what they highlight:

Pros:

• 👍 Design: "The car looks like a race car, especially in Storm White with a black roof. People often stop in the parking lot to take photos."
• 🚀 Dynamics: “Compared to the standard Note, it’s heaven and earth. The CVT in manual mode allows you to keep the speed in the red zone.”
• 💰 Economical: “When driving quietly, I get within 5.8 l/100 km. For a car with such character, this is an excellent indicator.”
• 🛠️ Reliability: "For 80 thousand km - only maintenance and replacement of pads. The engine and gearbox did not disappoint."

Cons:

• 👎 Suspension: "Our roads are rough every day. After 2 hours of driving, my back hurts."
• 🔊 Shumka: "At speeds over 100 km/h, you can hear everything: the wind, the tires, the suspension. The base Note is quieter."
• 💸 Cost of ownership: "Nismo spare parts (for example, bumpers or wheels) are 2-3 times more expensive than standard ones."
• 🔧 Service: "Not every service undertakes chip tuning - you need to go to Moscow or St. Petersburg."

Interesting fact: many owners note that Nismo S performs best on mountain serpentines or closed tracks. In the city, its potential is revealed only by 60-70% due to speed limits and poor coverage. However, 85% of respondents are ready to buy a car again - and this is the best recommendation.

Prices and where to buy: secondary market vs official dealers

Officially Nissan Note Nismo S It was not supplied to Russia - all copies on the market were imported from Japan or the UAE. Today (2026), prices for used cars vary depending on mileage and condition:

Year of manufacture	Mileage, thousand km	Price, ₽	What's included
2016–2017	40–60	1 200 000 – 1 400 000	Standard equipment, CVT
2018	20–30	1 500 000 – 1 700 000	Manual transmission, winter tire set
2019–2020	5–15	1 800 000 – 2 200 000	Full service, up to 1 year warranty

Where to look?

• 🌍 Japanese auctions: USS Tokyo, Goo-Net (prices are 15-20% lower than in Russia, but you need the help of a broker).
• 🇷🇺 Russian sites: Avto.ru, Drome (pay attention to the seller's reviews).
• 🏁 Owners clubs: groups in VKontakte or on Drive2 (often sold by enthusiasts with full service history).

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a fitted Nismo S be sure to check:

• Availability customs clearance certificate (without it the car cannot be registered).
• Body condition — Japanese cars often rust in the arches and sills.
• ECU firmware: if the previous owner installed chip tuning, the engine could operate in extreme conditions.

Average cost of ownership (per year) for Nismo S is about 120 thousand rubles, including:

• 🛢️ Fuel: 40 thousand ₽ (with a mileage of 15 thousand km/year).
• 🔧 TO: 30 thousand ₽ (oil, filters, pads).
• 🚗 Insurance: 25 thousand ₽ (CASCO + OSAGO).
• 💰 Unforeseen expenses: 25 thousand ₽ (tires, minor repairs).

FAQ: answers to popular questions about the Nissan Note Nismo S

❓ Is it possible to install an engine from Nissan Juke Nismo on Nismo S?

Theoretically yes: Juke Nismo equipped with the same HR16DE, but with turbocharging (197 hp). However, for the swap you will need:

• Replacement of ECU and wiring.
• Strengthening the gearbox (variator Juke won't fit).
• Modification of the exhaust system and cooling.

The cost of such tuning exceeds 500 thousand rubles, and reliability remains in question. Most owners prefer to limit themselves to chip tuning the stock engine.

❓ How to distinguish the original Nismo S from the “homemade” one?

The original model has:

• Serial number on the center console (format NISMO XXX/XXX).
• Logo Nismo S on the rear door and steering wheel.
• Red stitching on seats and seat belts.
• 17-inch wheels with markings Nismo on knitting needles.

If at least one of these elements is missing, you have a repainted standard one. Note with modifications.

❓ What oil should I fill into the HR16DE engine?

Manufacturer recommends 5W-30 with permission API SN or ILSAC GF-5. Optimal options:

• Nissan Strong Save X E 5W-30 (original).
• Mobil 1 ESP 5W-30 (for severe conditions).
• Liqui Moly Top Tec 4200 5W-30 (improved cleaning properties).

Replacement interval - every 10 thousand km (or once a year). When operating on 98-octane gasoline, the interval can be increased to 12 thousand km.

❓ How much does CASCO insurance cost for Nismo S?

The cost depends on the region and the age of the driver, but on average:

• Moscow: 40–50 thousand ₽/year (with a franchise of 10 thousand).
• Regions: 30–40 thousand ₽/year.
• UAE/Japan (upon import): 20–25 thousand ₽/year (but local transit insurance required).

Many insurance companies consider Nismo S to "sports cars", so rates are higher than standard Note.

❓ Is it possible to drive Nismo S in winter?

Yes, but with reservations:

• 🔹 Install winter tires no longer 195 mm (optimally - 195/55 R16).
• 🔹 Check the condition of the stabilizer strut - plastic bushings become fragile in the cold.
• 🔹 Avoid sudden starts on the variator at temperatures below -15°C (the oil in the box thickens).

Owners recommend keeping a kit in the trunk snow chains — with a ground clearance of 145 mm, the car easily gets stuck in the snow.