Nissan Note e-POWER NISMO is not just a compact van with a hybrid installation, but an attempt by the Japanese brand to combine efficiency with a sporty character. A model built on the basis of a standard Note e-POWER, received an aggressive body kit, modified suspension and unique design elements that set it apart from its competitors. But does it justify NISMO version its price, or is this just a marketing ploy? In this material we will analyze the technical nuances, real advantages and weaknesses of the model, and also give practical recommendations for operation and tuning.
Hybrid system e-POWER from Nissan has already established itself as a reliable and economical solution, but in the version NISMO engineers went further - they optimized the output of the electric motor, redesigned the transmission and added sporty notes to the control. However, not everything is so simple: some owners note that the dynamics have remained at the level of the basic version, and external changes are more of a decorative nature. Let's figure out what's under the hood and whether the game is worth the candle.
What is the Nissan Note e-POWER NISMO and how does it differ from the basic version?
Nissan Note e-POWER NISMO is a limited edition compact van, released in 2022 specifically for the Japanese market (and later for some European countries). Unlike standard Note e-POWER, this version received:
- 🔥 Sports body kit with front splitter, side skirts and rear diffuser improving aerodynamics.
- 🎨 Unique coloring - exclusive body colors (for example, Stealth Gray And Vivid Blue) and black 16-inch wheels.
- 🚗 Modified suspension with stiff shock absorbers and springs that reduce roll when cornering.
- ⚡ Optimized software for the system e-POWER, which supposedly improves throttle response.
However, the key question is: Has the dynamic changed? Officially Nissan claims "more responsive handling" but independent tests show 0-100km/h acceleration remains the same 10.5–11 seconds - same as the basic version. But fuel consumption the city is truly impressive: 3.5–4.2 l/100 km thanks to the hybrid system.
⚠️ Attention: External changes NISMO do not affect reliability - all components (including the hybrid installation) are identical to the basic version. However, a stiff suspension can wear out the shock absorbers faster on bad roads.
Technical specifications: engine, transmission and hybrid system
With my heart Note e-POWER NISMO The same hybrid setup remains as in the standard version, but with some modifications:
- 🔋 Electric motor — EM57 power
100 kW (136 hp)and torque280 Nm. - ⛽ Gasoline generator — HR12DE volume
1.2 l(acts only as a battery charger). - 🔄 Transmission — stepless variator Xtronic with simulated gears in sports mode.
- 🔋 Battery - lithium-ion battery capacity
2.1 kWh(enough for1–2 kmpurely electric).
System Feature e-POWER is that the wheels always turn only electric motor - the gasoline engine is not connected to the transmission and works solely to generate electricity. This allows you to achieve smooth acceleration without “dips” and vibrations.
| Parameter | Nissan Note e-POWER (base) | Nissan Note e-POWER NISMO |
|---|---|---|
| Electric motor power | 100 kW (136 hp) |
100 kW (136 hp) (no changes) |
| Acceleration 0–100 km/h | 10.5 s |
10.3–10.5 s (minor improvement) |
| Max. speed | 160 km/h |
160 km/h (limited by electronics) |
| Fuel consumption (city) | 3.7 l/100 km |
3.5–4.0 l/100 km (due to software optimization) |
| Clearance | 150 mm |
145 mm (lowered by sports suspension) |
An important nuance: despite the sporty image, the NISMO version did not receive a reinforced braking system - the brake discs and pads are identical to the base model. If you drive aggressively, this can lead to overheating.
- Dynamics and control
- Efficiency and fuel consumption
- Design and Exterior
- Reliability and service
- Price and equipment
Exterior and interior: what has changed in the NISMO version?
Externally Note e-POWER NISMO stands out thanks to:
- 🖤 Black radiator grille with red accents and logo NISMO.
- 🔴 Red inserts on bumpers, mirrors and spoilers.
- 🌪️ Side skirts and a rear diffuser, which visually “press” the car to the road.
- 🎯 16-inch wheels with unique design (optional 17-inch for some markets).
Inside, the changes are minimal, but noticeable:
- 🪑 Sports seats with improved lateral support and logos NISMO.
- 🎛️ Red stitch on the steering wheel, gearshift lever and floor mats.
- 📱 Multimedia system with branded headband NISMO (functionality is identical to the basic version).
Unfortunately, quality of materials remained at the same level - the plastic is hard, and the sound insulation is rather weak for a car with a premium markup. But the ergonomics are excellent: all controls are within reach, and visibility is excellent thanks to the large windows.
What's hiding under the hood?
Under the hood of the Nissan Note e-POWER NISMO there is no traditional internal combustion engine connected to the wheels. Instead there are:
- Electric motor EM57 with inverter.
- Gasoline generator HR12DE (1.2 l, 80 hp), which only works to charge the battery.
- Lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 2.1 kWh.
The system automatically switches between modes depending on the load, but the driver can force activation of the "sport" mode via a button S on the gearbox selector.
Pros and cons: is the NISMO version worth buying?
Like any limited edition, Note e-POWER NISMO has its strengths and weaknesses. Let's look at them objectively:
✅ Benefits
- 🚀 Unique design — the car really stands out on the road.
- ⛽ Economical — fuel consumption in the city is lower than that of most competitors.
- 🔧 Reliability - hybrid system e-POWER time-tested and rarely breaks.
- 💺 Practicality — despite its compact dimensions, the interior is spacious (trunk —
354 l).
❌ Disadvantages
- 💰 Price — extra charge for NISMO amounts to
15–20%compared to the basic version. - 🐢 Dynamics — despite the sporty image, acceleration remained virtually unchanged.
- 🛣️ Stiff suspension — comfort on bad roads suffers.
- 🔊 Noisiness — at high speeds you can hear a hum from the generator.
⚠️ Attention: If dynamics are important to you, consider alternatives like Toyota Yaris GR Sport or Honda Jazz Crosstar - they offer the best price/power ratio.
☑️ What to check before buying Nissan Note e-POWER NISMO?
Tuning and modifications: how to improve the Nissan Note e-POWER NISMO?
If the standard characteristics are not enough for you, there are several ways to upgrade the car:
🔧 Mechanical improvements
- 🔋 Installing a larger battery (for example, from Leaf) to increase the electric stroke.
- 🛞 Replacing wheels on light wheels
17–18 inches(will improve handling). - 🔧 ECU firmware to remove the speed limit (up to
180 km/h).
🎨 External tuning
- 🖌️ Vinyl stickers (for example, black roof or mirrors).
- 💡 LED optics (replacing standard headlights with brighter ones).
- 🔊 Sports exhaust (decorative, since real sound cannot be achieved from the generator).
Important: Any interference with the hybrid system e-POWER may void the warranty. We recommend contacting official dealers or trusted tuning studios with experience working with Nissan.
If you want to improve dynamics without compromising your warranty, try installing lightweight wheels and soft tires (e.g. Michelin Pilot Sport 5). This will reduce unsprung weight and improve grip.
Comparison with competitors: who is better?
In the compact hybrid segment, Note e-POWER NISMO there are several serious rivals:
| Model | Power | Acceleration 0–100 km/h | Consumption (city) | Price (from) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Note e-POWER NISMO | 136 hp |
10.3 s |
3.5 l/100 km |
2.8 million ₽ |
| Toyota Yaris Hybrid GR Sport | 116 hp |
9.7 s |
3.8 l/100 km |
2.5 million ₽ |
| Honda Jazz Crosstar | 109 hp |
10.5 s |
4.0 l/100 km |
2.3 million ₽ |
| Hyundai Kona Hybrid | 141 hp |
9.9 s |
4.2 l/100 km |
2.9 million ₽ |
As can be seen from the table, Note e-POWER NISMO loses to competitors in dynamics, but wins in efficiency. If it's important to you sport riding, better take a closer look Yaris GR Sport or Kona Hybrid. If in first place style and low consumption — NISMO could be an interesting choice.
Nissan Note e-POWER NISMO is a car for those who value unique design and efficiency, rather than record-breaking dynamics. Its main advantage is the combination of hybrid technology with an aggressive body kit, which sets it apart from its “gray” competitors.
Operation and maintenance: what does the owner need to know?
Hybrid system e-POWER requires a special approach to maintenance. Here are the key points:
- 🔋 Battery: Check the charge level once every
10,000 km. For long periods of inactivity (more than a month), charge the battery from the mains. - ⛽ Generator: change the oil every
15,000 km(despite the low mileage of the gasoline engine). - 🛞 Brakes: due to recuperation, the pads wear out more slowly, but they still need to be checked once every
30,000 km. - 🔧 Software: update the firmware from an official dealer (especially if there are glitches in the operation of the variator).
One of the frequently asked questions: can it be towed Note e-POWER NISMO? Answer: no. The hybrid powertrain is not designed for towing, which could damage the electric motor. In the event of a breakdown, the tow truck must transport the vehicle with the drive wheels hanging out.
⚠️ Attention: When washing with high pressure, avoid getting water on the battery connectors (located under the rear seat). This may cause a short circuit.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions
❓ How much does Nissan Note e-POWER NISMO cost in Russia?
The model is not officially supplied to Russia, but it can be imported from Japan. The price including customs clearance and delivery starts from 2.8–3.2 million rubles depending on configuration and condition.
❓ What is the real fuel consumption of the NISMO version?
In the urban cycle, consumption is 3.5–4.2 l/100 km, on the highway - 4.5–5.0 l/100 km. When driving aggressively in sport mode, consumption can increase to 5.5 l/100 km.
❓ Is it possible to install all-wheel drive on the Note e-POWER NISMO?
No, hybrid system e-POWER This model is exclusively front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is only available on crossovers Nissan (For example, X-Trail e-POWER).
❓ Which tires are better to choose to improve handling?
Suitable for the summer season Michelin Pilot Sport 5 or Continental SportContact 7. For winter we recommend Bridgestone Blizzak LM005 or Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5.
❓ How often does the hybrid system need to be serviced?
Scheduled maintenance is carried out every 15,000 km or once a year. Battery and inverter diagnostics are recommended every 60,000 km. Maintenance costs are higher than a regular car, but parts wear out more slowly.