Nissan Note buyer’s guide
We reveal what to look for on used supermini-mpv
WHEN Nissan teamed up with Renault to create the original Note and Modus/grand Modus respectively, only the Japanese car enjoyed sales success.
Neatly designed, brilliantly practical and generally reliable, the Mk1 Note was a decent small car that still makes a lot of sense to anybody on a budget looking for a cheap car with low running costs.
So when the second version arrived, expectations were high, and we weren’t disappointed. Looking more stylish and featuring a raft of hi-tech kit, the Note Mk2 was a big advance over the first car.
Now available only as a used buy, does this Nissan strike the right note?
History
THE second-generation Note hit UK roads in October 2013 with either diesel or petrol engines. The former was Nissan’s 89bhp 1.5 dci unit, while the latter was offered in 79bhp naturally aspirated or 97bhp DIG-S (supercharged) guises. The DIG-S didn’t arrive until spring 2014, bringing with it the option of a CVT automatic gearbox, dubbed Xtronic.
The limited-run Note N-TEC appeared in February 2015, based on the Acenta and fitted with Nissanconnect, DAB, a touchscreen display with integrated nav and a reversing camera. At the same time, the exterior design got a light refresh.
In July 2016 the limited Black Edition arrived; this was based on the Acenta.
Which one?
CONSIDER only the DIG-S or dci engines; the 1.2 is too underpowered unless you never escape the city. The diesel engine is economical, but refinement is poor.
The entry-level Note Visia comes with stop/start, electric front windows, remote central locking and cruise control. Next up is the Acenta, which brings 15-inch alloys (16 inches on DIG-S models), aircon, Bluetooth and a sliding rear bench seat. Acenta Premium adds automatic lights and wipers, plus climate control.
Range-topping Tekna spec has 16-inch rims, part-leather seats and keyless go. All DIG-S cars have a sportier steering and suspension set-up. The Around View Monitor, a 360-degree camera, is worth having; it was optional on the Acenta Premium and standard on the Tekna.
Alternatives
THE Note’s closest rivals include the Kia Venga, Hyundai ix20 and Vauxhall Meriva, with the latter being the easiest to find. Only consider the Mk2 Meriva (launched in 2010) with its rear-hinged back doors; it’s spacious, versatile and generally well equipped. Used prices are keen.
The Venga and ix20 are closely related, but both are easy to recommend
if rather unexciting choices, because they come with long warranties, so you can expect decent reliability.
Don’t overlook the Honda Jazz, either; this car offers unrivalled space and versatility in the supermini segment, along with class-leading reliability – plus it’s available in hybrid form.
Verdict
THE second-generation Nissan Note wasn’t a game-changer, although it did introduce a series of safety features to the segment. It’s neatly designed and, as long as you avoid entry-level cars, equipment levels are generous. The Note is popular mainly with private and Motability buyers, so there are lots of low-mileage examples around.
Read the owner reviews on our sister website Carbuyer and you’ll see some people regret buying a specific derivative due to engine or gearbox characteristics. So while we can recommend the Note, it’s very important that you buy the right spec for your needs to ensure you’re not to be disappointed with the Nissan.