Nissan Note is a compact hatchback that has gained popularity due to its combination of practicality, efficiency and advanced technology. This model, presented in several generations, is ideal for urban conditions, but does not compromise on comfort on the highway. In the article we will analyze all technical specifications - from engines and gearboxes to chassis features and electronics.
We will pay special attention key differences between generations (E11, E12, E13), as well as nuances that are important to consider when buying a used copy. For example, why Note e-Power with a hybrid installation consumes 20% less fuel than classic gasoline versions, and how does this affect the dynamics. We will also reveal unique feature of the system ProPilot in the latest generation - it allows the car to independently maintain its lane and distance at speeds up to 130 km/h.
Engines: from naturally aspirated petrol to hybrid e-Power
Line of motors Nissan Note has evolved from simple atmospheric units to innovative hybrid systems. In the first generation (E11, 2004–2012), exclusively gasoline engines of the series were installed HR volume 1.4 and 1.6 liters. They were reliable, but could not boast high power or efficiency by modern standards.
The second generation (E12, 2012–2020) brought significant changes: a turbocharged engine appeared 1.2 DIG-T (115 hp), which combined dynamics with moderate consumption (5.5 l/100 km in the combined cycle). However, the real breakthrough came with the debut Note e-Power in 2016 - a hybrid system, where the gasoline engine works exclusively as a generator for the electric motor.
- 🔧 HR16DE (1.6 l, 110 hp) — naturally aspirated, timing chain drive, service life of 300+ thousand km with proper maintenance.
- ⚡ DIG-T R9M (1.2 l, 115 hp) - turbocharged, requires high-quality oil (for example,
5W-30with permission Nissan). - ♻️ e-Power (1.2 l + electric motor, 116 hp) — hybrid without recharging, actual consumption 3.8–4.2 l/100 km.
The third generation (E13, from 2020) has completely switched to a hybrid platform e-Power, abandoning traditional internal combustion engines. Here it is used 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor producing 136 hp. (in version Nismo). Important: despite less power on paper, acceleration to 100 km/h takes just 9.7 seconds thanks to 280 Nm of torque from zero.
- Atmospheric 1.6 HR16DE
- Turbocharged 1.2 DIG-T
- Hybrid e-Power
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Transmission: CVT vs manual - what to choose?
Depending on generation and market, Nissan Note equipped with three types of transmissions: 5-speed manual transmission, 4-speed automatic (obsolete design) and CVT Xtronic. The latter has become the calling card of the model, especially in hybrid versions.
CVT Xtronic paired with e-Power optimized for smooth acceleration and minimal energy loss. For example, in Note E13 it simulates 7 "virtual" gears for a sportier feel. However, owners note that during aggressive driving, the variator may overheat - in such cases, protection is activated that limits power.
| Transmission type | Models/Generations | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-speed manual | E11, E12 (basic versions) | Reliability, low repair costs | Outdated design, vibrations at high speeds |
| 4-automatic | E11 (until 2010) | Simplicity of design | High fuel consumption, slow shifts |
| CVT Xtronic | E12 (since 2014), E13 (all versions) | Smooth running, economical | Expensive to repair, sensitive to oil |
⚠️ Attention: In CVTs Nissan Note it is necessary to change the oil every 60 thousand km, even if the manufacturer claims a “maintenance-free” transmission. Use only original fluid NS-3 - analogues can lead to belt slippage.
For mechanical lovers, there is still an option with a 5-speed manual transmission, but it is available only in basic trim levels E12 (until 2018). Interestingly, in Japan Note with mechanics was in demand among taxi drivers due to its simplicity and low cost of maintenance.
Suspension and handling: comfort vs sportiness
Suspension Nissan Note designed with an emphasis on comfort, but the engineers managed to achieve good handling. Front used in all generations MacPherson struts, and behind - semi-independent beam (in E13 with reinforced silent blocks). This design provides a smooth ride on uneven surfaces, but at high speeds there may be some roll in corners.
In the sports version Note Nismo (available in Japan and Europe) the suspension is stiffer by 15%, and the ground clearance is reduced by 10 mm. Also installed here 17" wheels (versus 15–16" in standard versions) and tires with low-profile rubber. However, such changes affect comfort: on Russian roads Nismo may seem overly harsh.
- 🔄 Front suspension: Racks MacPherson with gas-filled shock absorbers (in E13 - with improved supports).
- 🔧 Rear suspension: Semi-independent torsion beam, in E13 - with additional amplifiers.
- 📏 Ground clearance: 150 mm (E11), 145 mm (E12), 140 mm (E13). In version Nismo - 130 mm.
If you often drive on gravel roads, check the condition of the CV joint boots - Note E11 they often break due to low ground clearance.
Steering in all generations - electrically assisted rack. B E13 it's more responsive thanks to the new firmware, but still remains easy to park. The turning radius is only 4.6 meters, which makes the car extremely maneuverable in the city.
Fuel consumption: real numbers vs factory data
Official data on fuel consumption often differs from real figures. For example, Nissan Note E12 with engine HR16DE and with a variator, according to the passport, it consumes 5.8 l/100 km in the combined cycle, but owners report 6.5–7.5 l/100 km in winter. Hybrid versions e-Power demonstrate more stable results.
The table below shows a comparison of factory and real indicators (according to owners with a mileage of 30–50 thousand km):
| Model/Engine | Factory consumption (l/100 km) | Actual consumption (l/100 km) | Terms |
|---|---|---|---|
| E11 1.6 (HR16DE) + manual transmission | 6.2 | 7.0–7.8 | City in winter |
| E12 1.2 DIG-T + CVT | 5.5 | 6.0–6.5 | Mixed cycle |
| E13 e-Power | 3.8 | 4.2–4.8 | City in summer |
Several factors influence consumption:
- ❄️ Temperature: In cold weather (-20°C), consumption grows by 15–20% due to heating and operation of the stove.
- 🛣️ Driving style: Aggressive acceleration increases consumption by 2–3 liters.
- 🔋 Battery condition: In hybrid versions, a weak battery forces the engine to need to be plugged in more often to recharge.
⚠️ Attention: B Note e-Power Do not use fuel with an octane number lower95. When refueling92gasoline, the system can go into emergency mode, limiting power to 50%.
Dimensions and load capacity: how practical is the Note?
Nissan Note belongs to the class subcompact hatchbacks, but thanks to the well-thought-out ergonomics of the interior and trunk, it is not inferior to many cars of a higher class. Body length varies from 3.99 m (E11) to 4.05 m (E13), and the wheelbase remains stable at 2.6 m, which provides space for rear passengers.
Trunk volume as standard - 355 liters (E13), but with the rear seats folded (60:40 split) it increases to 1,198 liters. For comparison: Toyota Yaris this figure is 286/768 liters. Also in Note There is double trunk bottom with compartments for storing small items.
- 📦 Trunk: 355 l (standard) / 1,198 l (with seats folded).
- 🪑 Seating: 5 (in E13 the rear sofa moves 160 mm to increase space).
- 🏋️ Load capacity: 450–500 kg (depending on configuration).
How to fold the rear seats in a Nissan Note E13?
1. Pull the lever on the seatback (located on the side of the headrest).
2. Tilt the backrest forward until it locks.
3. To return to the original position, lift the backrest and engage the lock.
In the version with a panoramic roof, the rear bench folds asymmetrically (right side only).
Maximum towed trailer weight - 900 kg (for versions with CVT). However, when towing heavy loads, it is recommended to disable the system Eco Mode, since it can artificially limit engine power.
Electronics and security systems: what does the Note offer?
Last generation Nissan Note (E13) equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, many of which were previously only available in premium cars. Basic equipment includes:
- 🚗 ProPilot: Adaptive cruise control with lane keeping function (operates up to 130 km/h).
- 🚦 Character Recognition: The system reads speed limits and road markings.
- 🔦 Automatic light: Turns on the high beam when there are no oncoming cars.
In versions Tekna And Nismo are added 360° camera (360°), blind spot monitoring And collision avoidance system with pedestrians. Interestingly, in Japan Note became the first car in its class to receive the highest safety rating JNCAP (5 stars).
However, there are also nuances: for example, the system ProPilot turns off in strong crosswinds or on roads with poor markings. Also in Russian versions there is no function automatic parking, available on the European market.
Make sure that the rear view camera does not fog up (problem E11/E12)
Check the operation of parking sensors (they often break down after an accident)
Test ProPilot at 60+ km/h (must stay in lane smoothly)
View error history via diagnostic connector (code U1000 indicates problems with the CAN bus) -->
Generation comparison: E11 vs E12 vs E13
Every generation Nissan Note had its strengths and weaknesses. Let's look at the key differences:
| Parameter | E11 (2004–2012) | E12 (2012–2020) | E13 (2020–present) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engines | 1.4, 1.6 (atmospheric) | 1.2 turbo, 1.6, e-Power | e-Power only |
| Transmission | 4-automatic, 5-speed | CVT, 5-speed manual transmission | CVT only |
| Security | 2 pillows, ABS | 6 airbags, ESP | ProPilot, 10 airbags |
| Used price (2026) | 250–450 thousand rubles. | 600–1.2 million rub. | From 1.5 million rubles. |
E11 - the choice for those who value simplicity and low cost of ownership. However, weak points: corrosion of the thresholds (after 10 years) and oil leaks from the crankshaft seals. E12 - gold standard in terms of price/quality ratio, especially in the version with e-Power. E13 - technologically advanced, but expensive to maintain (for example, replacing the battery of a hybrid system costs 150–200 thousand rubles).
If you're choosing between the E12 and E13, note that the E13 lacks a manual transmission and the hybrid system requires more frequent servicing (every 15,000 km).
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Note
❓ Which engine is the most reliable in a Nissan Note?
Considered the most reliable naturally aspirated 1.6 HR16DE (E11/E12). It does not have a turbine, a timing belt drive (the chain is enough for 300+ thousand km) and is less sensitive to fuel quality. Turbocharged 1.2 DIG-T requires more frequent oil changes (every 10 thousand km), and the hybrid e-Power - roads are under repair.
❓ Is it possible to install gas on Note e-Power?
No, installation of HBO on hybrid versions prohibited by the manufacturer. Gasoline engine in e-Power operates in optimal generator mode, and intervention in the system may lead to failures. In addition, gas savings will be minimal due to low gasoline consumption (4–5 l/100 km).
❓ What is the resource of the Xtronic variator in Note?
With proper maintenance (oil change NS-3 every 60 thousand km) the variator can withstand 200–250 thousand km. However, in Russian conditions, the resource may be reduced to 150 thousand km due to overheating during towing or aggressive driving. Signs of wear: jerking during acceleration, humming noise at speeds of 60–80 km/h.
❓ What tires are recommended for the Note?
Factory sizes:
185/65 R15- basic equipment.195/55 R16- versions Tekna And Acenta.205/45 R17— Nismo (requires low profile tires).
Suitable for winter Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 or Bridgestone Blizzak WS90. Optimal in summer Michelin Primacy 4 or Continental EcoContact 6 (low rolling resistance improves efficiency).
❓ How often should Note e-Power be serviced?
Maintenance schedule for the hybrid version:
- Every 15 thousand km: oil change (0W-20), filters (air, cabin).
- Every 60 thousand km: changing the oil in the variator, checking the brake fluid.
- Every 100 thousand km: diagnostics of high-voltage battery, replacement of spark plugs.
Important: in e-Power Do not use fuel or oil additives - they can damage the catalyst and energy recovery system.