Nissan Note 2020: a complete guide to a compact hatchback with Japanese reliability

Compact hatchback Nissan Note The 2020 model year is the perfect combination of urban agility, efficiency and Japanese build quality. The car, which was originally developed for the Japanese domestic market, has gained popularity abroad thanks to its thoughtful ergonomics, modern safety systems and amazing practicality for its class. In 2020, the model received an updated design, improved engines and an expanded list of options, making it even more attractive to city residents and young families.

What does Nissan Note Is 2020 special? First, it's one of the few compact hatchbacks to offer all-wheel drive. e-4WD in the basic configuration - a rarity for the segment. Secondly, the car is equipped with a system ProPILOT (in top versions), which simplifies control in traffic jams and on the highway. And thirdly, thanks to the modular platform Nissan managed to achieve record space in the cabin with modest body dimensions. But first things first.

Technical characteristics of Nissan Note 2020: engines, transmissions, suspension

Under the hood Nissan Note 2020 offers two petrol engines, both from the series HR with direct fuel injection system. The basic option is atmospheric HR12DE volume 1.2 liters, developing 79 hp at 6000 rpm. It is combined with a CVT Xtronic CVT or 5-speed manual transmission (depending on market). More powerful version - HR16DE volume 1.6 liters and recoil 114 hp, which also works in tandem with a CVT.

A special feature of the model is the all-wheel drive system e-4WD, which automatically engages the rear axle when the front wheels slip. It's not classic 4WD, and an electromechanical system with a separate electric motor on the rear axle, which allows you to save fuel in normal mode. Front suspension - MacPherson, at the rear there is a semi-independent beam, which is typical for compact hatchbacks, but engineers Nissan They did a good job on the settings: the car confidently holds the road and comfortably absorbs bumps.

Fuel consumption in the combined cycle for version 1.2 is approx. 5.2 l/100 km, and for 1.6 - 5.8 l/100 km. These are some of the best figures in the class, especially considering the possibility of all-wheel drive. Trunk volume - 354 liters, but thanks to the folding rear seats (60:40 ratio) it can be increased to 1198 liters.

• 🔧 Engines: 1.2 HR12DE (79 hp), 1.6 HR16DE (114 hp)
• ⚙️ Transmissions: 5MT (only for 1.2), Xtronic CVT
• 🚗 Drive: front or full e-4WD (optional)
• ⛽ Fuel consumption: 5.2–5.8 l/100 km combined cycle

Options and prices: what the market offers in 2026

In 2020 Nissan Note was offered in several trim levels, the names of which varied depending on the market. In Japan these were versions X, G, S And Autech (premium modification with a unique design). In the secondary market of Russia and the CIS countries, most often there are cars with trim levels similar to Japanese ones G And S, as they offer the best price-to-equipment ratio.

What's included in the basic package X? Here you will get LED daytime running lights, air conditioning, electrical accessories (windows, mirrors), a multimedia system with Apple CarPlay And Android Auto, as well as basic security systems: ABS, ESC and 6 airbags. In version G alloy wheels, climate control, rear view camera and parking assist are added. Top S pleases with a leather steering wheel, keyless entry, adaptive cruise control and system ProPILOT (in some markets).

Prices for Nissan Note 2020 on the secondary market in 2026 depends on mileage, equipment and condition. In Russia, a car with a mileage of up to 50,000 km can be found in the range 1.2–1.6 million rubles, while versions with a mileage of 80,000–100,000 km cost about 900,000–1.2 million rubles. It is important to note that models with all-wheel drive e-4WD usually 100–150 thousand rubles more expensive.

Equipment	Engine	Drive	Price (2026, Russian Federation, secondary)
X (basic)	1.2 HR12DE	Front	900 000 – 1 100 000 ₽
G (medium)	1.2 HR12DE	e-4WD	1 100 000 – 1 300 000 ₽
S (top)	1.6 HR16DE	e-4WD	1 300 000 – 1 600 000 ₽
Autech (premium)	1.6 HR16DE	e-4WD	1 500 000 – 1 800 000 ₽

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Nissan Note with mileage, be sure to check the service history of the variator Xtronic CVT. This gearbox requires regular oil changes (every 60,000 km), otherwise the risk of breakdown increases sharply. Also check whether the car has been in an accident - even minor impacts can affect the geometry of the body and the operation of the system ProPILOT.

Design and interior: ergonomics at their best

Exterior design Nissan Note 2020 received updates as part of the restyling: a more aggressive front end with a V-shaped grille, LED headlights (in top versions) and stylish taillights with a 3D effect. The car looks modern, but without being too pretentious - 典型的な日本デザイン (typical Japanese design), where form follows function. Dimensions remained compact: length 4100 mm, width 1695 mm, height 1530 mm, which makes the car ideal for parking in tight yards.

Inside Note surprises with its spaciousness: despite its external compactness, the interior is designed to seat five passengers comfortably. The rear seats can be moved back and forth by 240 mm, which allows you to either increase legroom or expand the trunk. The finishing materials are of high quality, even in the basic versions, and in the top versions there are soft plastics and a leather steering wheel. Multimedia system with touch screen 7 or 8 inches (depending on configuration) supports Apple CarPlay And Android Auto, and also has built-in navigation in some versions.

The system deserves special attention Divide-N-Hide - a unique solution for the luggage compartment. It allows you to divide the space into several zones using removable partitions, which is convenient for transporting small loads or purchases. The trunk also has a hidden compartment under the floor where you can store documents or valuables.

• 🎨 Exterior: LED optics (in the top), 15–16" wheels, chrome elements
• 🛋️ Interior: adjustable rear seats, soft plastics, climate control (optional)
• 📱 Multimedia: 7–8" screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation (optional)
• 🧳 Practicality: Divide-N-Hide system, hidden compartment in the trunk

Safety systems and driver assistants

Nissan Note 2020 received high ratings in crash tests JNCAP (Japanese equivalent Euro NCAP) thanks to advanced active and passive safety systems. As standard, the car is equipped with 6 airbags and a stabilization system. ESC, hill start assistant and tire pressure sensors. But the real breakthrough is the package Nissan Safety Shieldwhich includes:

• 🚦 Intelligent Emergency Braking - automatic emergency braking when pedestrians or obstacles are detected
• 🚗 Lane Departure Warning — lane departure warning
• 🔄 Blind Spot Warning — monitoring of blind spots
• 🅿️ Rear Cross Traffic Alert — assistance when reversing out of a parking lot

The system is available in top versions ProPILOT is a semi-autonomous assistant that can independently keep the car in the lane, maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, and even help when changing lanes (in the version ProPILOT 2.0, which appeared later). It is important to understand that ProPILOT does not replace the driver, but significantly reduces fatigue in traffic jams or on long highways.

Another useful option is Intelligent Around View Monitor (all-round camera), which projects images from four cameras onto the multimedia screen, helping when parking in tight spaces. This system is especially relevant for beginners or those who often park in urban areas.

How does the e-4WD system work?

The e-4WD system in the Nissan Note is not a classic all-wheel drive, but an electromechanical solution. When the front wheels slip, the electric motor on the rear axle is automatically activated, which helps to pull the car. The main advantage is the absence of a driveshaft and transfer case, which reduces weight and fuel consumption. However, e-4WD is not intended for serious off-roading: it is effective on snow, wet roads or gravel, but will not replace full-fledged 4WD in deep mud or mountain climbs.

Pros and cons of Nissan Note 2020: an honest analysis

Like any car, Nissan Note 2020 has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's break them down objectively so you can make an informed purchasing decision.

✅ Pros:

• 💰 Economical: fuel consumption from 5.2 l/100 km is one of the best in its class
• 🚗 All-wheel drive e-4WD: a rare option for compact hatchbacks, useful in winter
• 🛡️ Security: high crash test scores, advanced driver assistance systems
• 🧩 Practicality: adjustable rear seats, Divide-N-Hide system, large trunk
• 📱 Technologies: ProPILOT, Apple CarPlay, 360-degree camera (top)

❌ Cons:

• 🐢 Dynamics: 1.2 liter engine is weak for overtaking on the highway, especially with a full load
• 🔧 CVT: requires strict adherence to maintenance regulations (oil change every 60,000 km)
• 💺 Shumka: At high speeds, noise from wheels and wind can be heard in the cabin
• 🛒 Spare parts price: Some parts (such as headlights or security sensors) are expensive
• 🌍 Low ground clearance: only 145 mm, which limits cross-country ability on bad roads

⚠️ Attention: If you plan to use Nissan Note in regions with harsh winters, pay attention to versions with all-wheel drive e-4WD and be sure to install winter tires with studs or Velcro. Despite all-wheel drive, the low ground clearance and short wheelbase make the car vulnerable in snowy areas.

Comparison with competitors: who is better?

In the compact hatchback class, Nissan Note 2020 there are several direct competitors, including Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit (Jazz) And Mazda 2. Let's compare them based on key parameters.

Parameter	Nissan Note 2020	Toyota Yaris 2020	Honda Fit 2020	Mazda 2 2020
Engine (base)	1.2 l (79 hp)	1.0 l (98 hp)	1.3 l (98 hp)	1.5 l (109 hp)
Drive	Front/e-4WD	Front	Front	Front
Fuel consumption (combined)	5.2–5.8 l/100 km	4.8–5.5 l/100 km	5.0–5.7 l/100 km	5.5–6.0 l/100 km
Trunk (l)	354 (1198)	286 (729)	296 (1200)	250 (780)
Security systems	ProPILOT, e-4WD	Toyota Safety Sense	Honda Sensing	i-Activsense

Toyota Yaris It wins in dynamics and efficiency, but loses in practicality - its trunk is noticeably smaller. Honda Fit offers similar interior flexibility (seats Magic Seat), but does not have an all-wheel drive option. Mazda 2 looks more premium and drives sportier (sportier), but its trunk is the smallest in the class, and its safety systems are inferior ProPILOT from Nissan.

If you care practicality and all-wheel drive, then Nissan Note is the best choice. If the priority is dynamics and premium, it's worth taking a closer look at Mazda 2. For those who are looking maximum efficiency, will do Toyota Yaris with a hybrid installation.

Owner reviews: real operating experience

To form an objective opinion about Nissan Note 2020, we analyzed reviews from owners on Russian and foreign forums. Here's what they say:

• 👍 "Great city car!" — most owners praise maneuverability, efficiency and ease of parking. I especially like the system ProPILOT, which makes life easier in traffic jams.
• 👍 “The trunk is simply huge for its size!” — many note the practicality of the system Divide-N-Hide and the ability to transport large loads.
• 👎 "Weak 1.2 liter engine on the highway." — owners complain about a lack of power when overtaking, especially with a full load.
• 👎 "The noise leaves much to be desired." — at speeds above 100 km/h, noise from the wheels and wind is heard in the cabin.
• ⚠️ "The variator requires attention!" - those who did not change the CVT oil on time faced jerks and expensive repairs.

Interesting fact: many owners Nissan Note in Japan they use it as ke-car (a passenger car with preferential taxation), but even in this configuration the car does not lose in comfort. In Russia and Europe, the model is valued for its reliability and low cost of ownership.

The question is often discussed on forums: “Is it worth taking a used Note?” The answer depends on your service history. If the car has undergone maintenance at an official dealer and there are receipts for changing the oil in the variator, then this is an excellent option. If the history is unknown, it is better to look for another copy or set aside a budget for changing the CVT oil and diagnosing the suspension.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about the 2020 Nissan Note

❓ Is it possible to install gas equipment on Nissan Note 2020?

Technically yes, but it's not recommended for several reasons. Firstly, series engines HR are not designed to operate on gas, which can lead to premature wear of the valves. Secondly, installing LPG will void the warranty (if it is still valid) and may cause problems with the systems ProPILOT And e-4WD, since they are sensitive to changes in engine operation. If reducing fuel costs is critical to you, consider a hybrid car, for example Toyota Yaris Hybrid.

❓ How often do you need to change the oil in the Xtronic CVT variator?

Official regulations Nissan prescribes changing the oil in the variator every 60,000 km or once every 4 years (whichever comes first). However, many experts recommend reducing this interval to 40,000–50,000 km, especially if the car is operated in city mode with frequent traffic jams. Use only original oil NS-3 or its analogues, approved Nissan. Changing the CVT oil costs 8,000–12,000 rubles (with labor), but it's cheaper than a CVT repair, which can cost 150,000–250,000 rubles.

❓ Is Nissan Note suitable for a family with a child?

Yes, Nissan Note 2020 is an excellent family car, especially when it comes to city use. The cabin can easily accommodate a child seat and luggage (for example, a stroller), and the system Divide-N-Hide allows you to separate cargo from the passenger area. The rear seats are adjustable, allowing for more legroom for children. However, if you often have to drive on the highway with a full load, it is worth considering the version with the engine 1.6 l — it is more dynamic and more comfortable at high speeds.

❓ Which tires are best to choose for Nissan Note for the winter?

For Nissan Note For 2020, the following winter tire sizes are recommended (depending on equipment):

• 175/65 R15 — the most common size for basic versions;
• 185/60 R16 - for top trim levels with 16-inch wheels.

Among the popular models, owners highlight:

• 🏔️ Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 — for snowy regions;
• 🛣️ Michelin X-Ice North 4 — for mixed conditions (snow + asphalt);
• 💎 Bridgestone Blizzak VRX - a premium option with excellent grip.

If you have a four-wheel drive version e-4WD, you can consider studless tires with good performance on wet ice, e.g. Continental IceContact 3.

❓ How to activate the ProPILOT system in Nissan Note?

System ProPILOT activated by a button on the steering wheel (usually indicated by a steering wheel icon with radio waves). For it to work you need:

1. Move with speed from 30 km/h (on the highway) or from 0 km/h (in a traffic jam, if there is a function ProPILOT with Stop & Go);
2. Press the activation button - the green indicator on the dashboard will light up;
3. The system automatically maintains a distance from the vehicle in front and keeps the car in its lane.

Important: ProPILOT does not replace the driver! Hands must remain on the steering wheel, and the driver must be ready to take control at any moment. The system turns off when the steering wheel is turned strongly, the gas/brake pedal is pressed, or there are no markings on the road.