Nissan has introduced a new model called Note, which has joined its lineup. This car is something between a compact hatchback and a small minivan, combining spaciousness and practicality with a rather attractive design. Technically, the Note is built on the same platform as the Micra and Modus, but it has its own character and unique features.
Automakers have long been searching for the perfect balance between a regular hatchback and a compact van for urban conditions. In this regard, the Note is a typical representative of this direction. Interestingly, what seems convenient to a European is perceived somewhat differently by a Russian driver, even in Moscow. However, the trend towards choosing practical cars over prestigious but less functional ones is becoming increasingly noticeable.
Consumer perception and the growing popularity of tall hatchbacks have been moving towards each other for a long time. Gradually, we have become accustomed to the idea that a beautiful car does not necessarily have to be low and have sporty proportions. Classic models are forced to grow in size to provide comfort for tall passengers, while new body types have received a more modern and expressive design, and their driving characteristics have become no worse than those of traditional hatchbacks.
2006 Nissan Note
© Photo: Nissan
If we compare the Note with its "relative" Modus, we can say that it is aimed at buyers with more conservative preferences. Its exterior combines friendly headlights similar to the Micra, solidity like the Murano, and elegant simplicity of the side lines. The boomerang-shaped rear lights add originality, although they look quite predictable.
The driver's seating position is quite upright, but still closer to a passenger car than to a bus. There will be no problems with the pedals even for those with size 46 shoes, which is rare for this class. The adjustments allow you to easily find a comfortable position, but there is one nuance - the wide front pillar somewhat limits visibility in the left-front direction.
2006 Nissan Note
© Photo: Nissan
The three-spoke steering wheel is very comfortable and leather-wrapped, with large stitching that feels pleasant to the touch and adds a sense of premium quality. Overall, the interior finish is high-quality and well thought out, and the cooled glove box impresses with its size. The interior turned out to be somewhat eclectic. When shifting gears, the contrast between the pleasant-to-touch steering wheel and the gear lever is noticeable: it works precisely, but the sound and feel of engagement reveal its budget nature. Aluminum-look inserts on the steering wheel coexist with chrome rings of the round climate control knobs in retro style, and the simple instrument panel contrasts with the shiny "lenses" of these knobs. How harmonious this is, everyone must decide for themselves. But the cabin's capabilities are truly extensive, and the main surprise awaits rear passengers.
The front seats, despite having storage compartments underneath, are positioned quite high. This allows rear passengers to fully stretch their legs - even many sedans do not offer such space. The rear row can be slid to increase cargo or passenger volume. The trunk can be organized in different ways using a removable partition. The cabin transformation is impressive: you can get a flat cargo area everywhere except the driver's seat. All operations are performed easily, in one motion, without extra effort or problems with latches.
On the move, the Note did not surprise. The suspension, not too stiff, successfully combines comfort with quite decent handling typical of family cars. In behavior, it is practically no worse than a regular hatchback on the same platform, and it resists body roll well. The only complaint is a tendency to wander on minor irregularities and in crosswinds, which is expected for such a body. The electric power steering makes it almost weightless when parking, but as speed increases, the effort on the wheel grows.
2006 Nissan Note
© Photo: Nissan
The engine range includes petrol engines with a displacement of 1.4 (88 hp) and 1.6 liters. The version with the 110-horsepower engine and five-speed manual accelerates confidently from 2000 rpm, and in the range of 3500–4000 rpm the engine feels best, providing good dynamics. If you rev it further, acceleration becomes more intense, but the engine noise starts to become annoying.
The brakes deserve special praise. Despite the simple design (discs at the front, drums at the rear), they pleased with both ease of control and resistance to loads on mountain roads. ABS with brake force distribution works in conjunction with Brake Assist and ESP (in the top version). True, ESP only showed itself as a traction control system, allowing the car to slide freely on both asphalt and dirt. Perhaps on snow it will behave differently - time will tell.
The Nissan Note is a strong player in its still small but growing class. It is spacious, comfortable, easy to drive, and enjoyable to drive. How successful it will be in Russia depends on the price, which has not yet been announced, although its consumer qualities already speak in its favor.
Technical specifications of the Nissan Note
Body – 5-door hatchback
Curb weight, kg – 1107–1165
Gross weight, kg – 1560
Dimensions, mm:
- length – 4083
- width – 1690
- height – 1550
Wheelbase, mm – 2600
Trunk volume, l – 280–437–1332
Maximum speed, km/h – 183
Acceleration time to 100 km/h, s – 10.7
Fuel consumption, l/100 km:
- urban cycle – 8.5
- suburban – 5.5
- combined – 6.6
Engine:
- type – petrol, inline, 4-cylinder, 16-valve
- displacement, cm3 – 1598
- power, hp at rpm – 110/6000
- torque, Nm at rpm – 153/4400
Transmission – manual, 5-speed
Suspension (front/rear) – McPherson/beam
Brakes (front/rear) – disc/drum
Price, $ – n/a
Advantages and disadvantages
+ Space for rear passengers, cabin transformation possibilities, handling, design.
– Steering effort, gearbox feel, wind sensitivity.