When it comes to compact hatchbacks for the city, Nissan Note often finds itself at the top of the list due to its successful combination of size, practicality and economy. But why exactly body length becomes one of the key parameters when choosing? In tight parking lots, narrow yards and traffic jams, every centimeter matters - it determines whether you can park in one move or have to maneuver for 10 minutes.
In this article we will look at the dimensions in detail. Nissan Note all generations, compare them with the main competitors (including Toyota Yaris, Honda Jazz And Kia Picanto), and also explain how the length of the car affects maneuverability, trunk volume and even on fuel consumption. If you are choosing between modifications with different wheelbases or are unsure whether the car will fit in your garage, here you will find exact numbers and practical advice.
Exact dimensions of Nissan Note by generation: comparison table
During production (since 2004) Nissan Note changed three generations, and each of them had its own characteristics in terms of body length. Below is a table with official data from the manufacturer, including wheelbase and width - these parameters directly affect the vehicle's stability on the road and passenger comfort.
| Generation | Years of manufacture | Length, mm | Wheelbase, mm | Width, mm | Height, mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Note E11 (1st) | 2004–2012 | 3795 | 2450 | 1690 | 1550 |
| Nissan Note E12 (2nd) | 2012–2020 | 4100 | 2600 | 1695 | 1520 |
| Nissan Note Aura (Japan, 3rd) | 2020–present | 4055 | 2620 | 1730 | 1545 |
| Nissan Note e-Power (hybrid) | 2020–present | 4055 | 2620 | 1730 | 1545 |
Please note: second generation (E12) became longer by 305 mm compared to the first, which significantly affected the space in the cabin and trunk volume. At the same time, the height decreased by 30 mm - this made the car visually more dynamic, but slightly reduced the ground clearance (to 150 mm versus 160 mm for E11).
The third generation, presented so far only on the Japanese market, retained the length at 4055 mm, but due to the increased wheelbase (2620 mm) it was possible to improve legroom for rear passengers. Hybrid version e-Power has identical dimensions, but weighs 80–100 kg more due to the battery.
- 1st (2004–2012)
- 2nd (2012–2020)
- 3rd (from 2020)
- I haven't decided yet
How does the length of the Nissan Note affect parking and maneuverability?
The main question that worries owners of compact hatchbacks: how difficult is it to park on a 4 meter long car? For comparison: the average length of a parking space in Russia is 5 meters, but taking into account pillars, curbs and neighboring cars, the real space for maneuver is often reduced to 4.5–4.7 meters.
Here's what the owners say Nissan Note about parking:
- 🔹 First generation (3795 mm): parks “like a bicycle” - even a beginner needs 1-2 movements. Ideal for cramped yards of old houses.
- 🔹 Second generation (4100 mm): Takes some getting used to, especially with the rear parking sensors. Without them, only experienced drivers can park the first time.
- 🔹 Third generation (4055 mm): Despite the shorter length, the width has increased to 1730 mm, which makes maneuvering in narrow passages more difficult.
Important nuance: turning radius at Note is 5.1 meters (for E12), which is 0.3–0.5 meters better than Toyota Yaris or Hyundai i20. This means that on narrow streets Nissan will unfold faster, even despite its greater length.
⚠️ Attention: If you often park in street "pockets" with a length limit (for example, 4.3 meters), second generation Note may not fit - check local regulations before purchasing.
When parking in reverse in a confined space, use the “45 degree rule”: turn the steering wheel one and a half turns to the left when the bumper is level with the middle of the next car. This will help avoid scratches on the corner.
Comparison with competitors: who is more compact?
To understand how much Nissan Note wins or loses in terms of dimensions, let's compare it with the main competitors in the class subcompact hatchbacks. For objectivity, let’s take models of the same year of manufacture (2015–2020) and price segment.
| Model | Length, mm | Wheelbase, mm | Trunk volume, l | Turning radius, m |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Note E12 (2015) | 4100 | 2600 | 354 | 5.1 |
| Toyota Yaris (2017) | 3945 | 2510 | 286 | 5.3 |
| Honda Jazz (2018) | 3995 | 2530 | 354 | 5.2 |
| Kia Picanto (2017) | 3595 | 2400 | 255 | 4.8 |
| Volkswagen Polo (2018) | 4053 | 2550 | 351 | 5.4 |
From the table it is clear that Nissan Note — one of the longest in the segment, second only to Volkswagen Polo. However, thanks extended wheelbase (2600 mm) it offers more rear legroom than Yaris or Jazz. Trunk volume Note And Jazz identical (354 l), but Nissan more level floor, making loading easier.
If it is critical for you minimum length, pay attention to Kia Picanto (3595 mm) - it is half a meter shorter Note, but at the same time loses in comfort for passengers and trunk volume. Toyota Yaris — golden mean: shorter by 155 mm, but with a less practical interior.
The Nissan Note is longer than most competitors, but wins in interior space and trunk volume. If you need a “more compact” car, take a look at the Kia Picanto or Toyota Yaris.
Length and volume of the trunk: how are these parameters related?
Many people mistakenly believe that body length directly determines trunk volume. In fact, the key role is played wheelbase and rear configuration. For example, Nissan Note E12 with a length of 4100 mm, it has a trunk of 354 l, and Skoda Fabia (4108 mm) - 330 l. The difference of 24 liters arises from the shape of the body and the location of the rear wheel arches.
This is how usable space is distributed in Note different generations:
- 📦 E11 (2004–2012): 251 l (base) / 1332 l (with seats folded). The narrow trunk opening makes loading large items difficult.
- 📦 E12 (2012–2020): 354 l / 1480 l. The flat floor and wide door allow you to transport even a disassembled bicycle.
- 📦 Aura/e-Power (since 2020): 385 l / 1540 l. Increased volume due to optimized body shape and the use of lithium-ion batteries under the floor.
Interesting fact: in the hybrid version e-Power trunk has not decreased despite the battery, the engineers placed it under the rear seats, maintaining useful volume. This is a rare solution for compact hybrids (for example, Toyota Prius the trunk is 50 liters smaller due to the battery).
⚠️ Attention: When choosing between petrol and hybrid versions Note Please note that the weight of the battery (~100 kg) reduces the load capacity by 80–100 kg. If you frequently transport heavy loads, check the maximum permissible weight in the vehicle title.
How to measure the actual trunk volume?
To check if your items will fit, take with you to the salon:
- 2 medium-sized suitcases (60 l each)
- Box with products (30×40×20 cm)
- Folding stroller or bicycle wheel
If all this fits without folding the seats, the trunk is suitable for your needs.
How does length affect fuel consumption and dynamics?
It may seem that long body automatically means higher fuel consumption. In practice, everything is more complicated: the key role is played by aerodynamics, weight And suspension settings. For example, Nissan Note E12 (4100 mm) in the urban cycle consumes 6.2 l/100 km, and the shorter Kia Picanto (3595 mm) - 6.5 l/100 km. The difference arises due to:
- 🚗 Drag coefficient (Cx): y Note it is equal to 0.32, y Picanto — 0.35.
- 🔋 Weights: Note weighs 1050–1150 kg, Picanto — 950–1020 kg. More weight requires less engine speed to accelerate.
- 🔄 Transmission ratios: y Nissan longer gears, which reduces consumption on the highway.
However, there is a downside: increased length slightly worsens the dynamics. For example, acceleration to 100 km/h Note E12 with a 1.2 engine it takes 12.5 seconds, whereas Toyota Yaris (1.0 turbo) copes in 10.9 seconds. But in city traffic this difference is almost imperceptible - more important maneuverability at low speeds, where Nissan not inferior to competitors.
Hybrid version e-Power shows a paradoxical picture: despite its greater weight (1200 kg), it accelerates to 100 km/h in 10.7 seconds thanks to the electric motor. At the same time, consumption in the city drops to 4.2 l/100 km - one of the best indicators in the class.
☑️ What to check during a test drive if dynamics are important?
Which modification to choose: short or long?
If you are faced with a choice between the first and second generation Nissan Note (or thinking about buying the Japanese version Aura), here are the criteria that will help you decide:
Choose the first generation (E11, 3795 mm), if:
- 🏙️ You live in a metropolis with narrow yards and a shortage of parking spaces.
- 💰 Budget is limited - E11 20–30% cheaper for the same mileage.
- 🔧 Ease of repair is important to you - spare parts are cheaper, and the design is less overloaded with electronics.
Give preference to the second/third generation (E12/Aura, 4055–4100 mm), if:
- 👨👩👧👦 Frequently carry passengers in the back seat (especially children with car seats).
- 🛒 Need a bigger trunk - the difference is 100 liters between E11 And E12 palpable.
- 🔋 Interested in modern options: 360° camera, adaptive cruise control, e-Power.
Compromise option - Nissan Note Aura (Japan). It combines a length of 4055 mm with improved aerodynamics and a hybrid powertrain. However, these machines are not officially supplied to Russia, so you will have to consider the option with parallel import or purchasing at auctions.
Note E11 (3795 mm) is optimal for the city; for families or frequent trips - E12 (4100 mm) or Aura (4055 mm with hybrid).
Frequently asked questions about Nissan Note dimensions
Is it possible to install a tow bar on a Nissan Note, will this reduce the ground clearance?
Yes, the towbar is installed on all generations Note, but the ground clearance will decrease by 15–20 mm due to the weight of the structure. Please note that the maximum load on the towbar is 600 kg (for E12), and with a trailer, the total weight should not exceed 1200 kg. For comparison: Toyota Yaris this figure is 1000 kg.
Will the Nissan Note E12 fit in a 2.3 meter wide garage?
Technically yes, but with caveats: width Note E12 - 1695 mm, but with the doors open you will need at least 2.5 meters. If the garage is narrow, park so that the driver's door opens toward the aisle. An alternative is folding mirrors (optional for top trim levels).
How does the length of the Note affect the cost of insurance?
There is no direct relationship, but some insurance companies take into account car class (subcompact or compact). For example, Note E11 (3795 mm) may fall into a cheaper category than E12 (4100 mm), if the insurer uses gradation by dimensions. The difference in the cost of compulsory motor liability insurance usually does not exceed 5–10%.
What tires are best to choose for the Note so as not to lose ground clearance?
Factory ground clearance Note E12 - 150 mm. To save it, choose tires with the following parameters:
- 🔘
185/65 R15(standard on most trim levels) - 🔘
195/55 R16(allowed, but reduces ground clearance by 5 mm)
Avoid low profile tires (205/45 R17), as this will reduce ground clearance by 15–20 mm and increase the risk of damage to the pan.
Is there a difference in length between automatic and manual versions?
No, the length of the body does not depend on the type of transmission. However, cars with CVT (CVT) can be 10-15 kg heavier due to the design of the box, which indirectly affects the dynamics. For example, Note E12 with a manual transmission it accelerates to 100 km/h 0.3 seconds faster than the version with a CVT.