Nissan Note is one of the most practical small cars for the family, mostly loved for its fuel economy. Its simplicity and cost of maintenance is another win for the Note. The model is slightly longer than its competition but feels roomier inside to accommodate four adults.
The boxy shape may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it plays its part in complementing the upright seating and the high roofline. There is also plenty of storage space to take advantage of.
But what other goodies does the small footprint vehicle have to offer to the used car buyer?
Nissan Note Upgrades and Trims
Note Visia, the entry-level model, has electric front windows, cruise control, and remote central locking, among other features.
Acenta is the next in line with a sliding rear bench for more space when you need it, Bluetooth, air-con, and 15-inch alloys. On the other hand, Acenta Premium adds climate control, wipers, and automatic lights.
Tekna is the range-topping model with keyless go, partly leather upholstery, and 16-inch rims. All the DIG-S’ are sportier, with a sporty suspension setup and steering. The 360 degree Around View Monitor camera is a stand-out feature in Tekna and Acenta Premium.
The second-generation diesel, an 89bhp 1.5 dCi unit, came through in 2013. The petrol engines were available in 79 bhp naturally-aspirated or 97 bhp DIG-S (supercharged). DIG-S arrived the following year with the option of the dubbed XTronic, the CVT automatic gearbox.
N-TEC came much later in 2015, boasting a suite of top-of-the-range features such as the NissanConnect, touchscreen display, and DAB. The exterior got a slight overhaul.
If you are looking for something versatile and spacious, the 2010 Mk2 Meriva is an easy pick. It is generally well-equipped, spacious, and has convenient rear-hinged doors.
Under the Bonnet
The 1.2-liter 3-cylinder petrol, 79bhp or 91bhp supercharger, is the entry-level. There is also a better option for those after a more fuel-efficient model. The 89bhp 1.5-liter diesel has lower emissions, and the consumption rate is quite good.
Interior of the Used Nissan Note
The inside of the Note is quite practical for such a vehicle with a low footprint, headroom is quite okay, and there is plenty of space for the front passengers. Some top-spec models have a sliding rear bench for better leg space and boot space. It is a great option to have, especially when you have a friend or relative with a larger body or limbs.
And apart from the Visia model, all other trims have a relatively big boot, with an adjustable boot floor. Rear seat passengers will appreciate the larger doors that allow for easier access. Putting a child in the rear is more comfortable and quicker.
The dashboard is obviously not the most inspiring, with the dominating black plastics.
Driving Experience
Some people don’t appreciate the body roll and the side winds when driving the Note down the countryside. The steering is light for the highway and parking in a tight space. You may find the vehicle a bit firm on some roads, but that is not something to complain about.
Note is surprisingly stable despite its relatively tall body. Well, you will find that driving around the corners and twisty roads is more manageable, thanks to the accurate steering.
Road noise is well contained on highway speeds, but it gets rather boomy for the petrols.
Costs of Owning a Used Nissan Note
For starters, the Nissan Note fuel economy is very reasonable, even for the worst-performing trims. The 1.2 DIG-S auto manages a 55.4mpg, and the supercharged 79bhp version pushes it to 60.1mpg. The diesel models are even better, with 78.5mpg.
What to Look for in a Used Nissan Note
Look for scratches in the boot area, dashboard, and other interior plastics. They don’t hide well in these areas. As a small car, a large part of its life is spent in the city. Check for scrapes to bumpers and parking dents. Repainting and correction to these areas can significantly eat into savings if you are not careful. Also, look for curb damage on the alloy wheels.
Make sure the air con is working just fine. The manufacturer recently switched to more environmentally-friendly refrigerant gas and can cost you quite a small sack of cash to install.
Go for the Nissan Note diesel if you frequent the highways. The DIG-S petrol is ideal for the hassles and bustles of the town traffic, where there is a lot of stop-and-go.
There are many Japanese Used Car, trucks buses, and farm tractors in all Japanese market.
If you want to import a Used Nissan Note, please check the recommended Japanese used car export companies for Nissan Note.
Top Recommended Japanese Used Car Export Companies for International Customers
If you want to know more details about specifications and models, please refer to Wikipedia or other catalogs.