Nissan Note Medalist - a compact hatchback that combines practicality, efficiency and modern design. This model, developed specifically for the Japanese market, has gained popularity due to its functionality and reliability. Unlike standard versions Nissan Note, Medalist offers expanded equipment, improved finishing materials and additional comfort options.
The car is ideal for urban conditions: maneuverable, economical and equipped with advanced safety systems. However, it also has its own characteristics that should be taken into account before purchasing. In this article we will look at technical specifications, compare configurations, analyze owner reviews and give practical recommendations for operation.
Technical specifications Nissan Note Medalist
Nissan Note Medalist built on a platform Nissan V-platform, which provides an optimal ratio of compactness and internal space. Under the hood of the model is usually installed 1.2 liter HR12DE petrol engine with direct fuel injection system, developing up to 79 hp at 6000 rpm. This engine is known for its reliability and low fuel consumption - in a combined cycle it consumes about 4.5–5.2 l/100 km.
Gearbox - Xtronic CVT continuously variable transmission, which provides smooth acceleration and economical driving. The drive is exclusively front-wheel drive, which is typical for cars of this class. Suspension Note Medalist configured for comfort: front pillars installed MacPherson, at the rear there is a semi-independent beam. This allows you to feel confident on city roads, but at high speeds or on uneven surfaces some shortcomings may appear.
- 🔧 Engine: HR12DE 1.2 l, 79 hp, gasoline
- ⚙️ Gearbox: variator Xtronic CVT
- ⛽ Fuel consumption: 4.5–5.2 l/100 km (combined cycle)
- 📏 Dimensions: 3995×1690×1535 mm (length×width×height)
- 🔋 Battery: standard 12V battery (in hybrid versions - lithium-ion unit)
Deserves special attention hybrid version Note Medalist e-Power, where the gasoline engine works solely as a generator for the electric motor. This scheme allows you to reduce fuel consumption to 3.4 l/100 km in the urban cycle, but requires a more attentive attitude to maintenance.
- Gasoline
- Hybrid e-Power
- Diesel
- Electric
Options and equipment
Nissan Note Medalist It is offered in several trim levels, but even the basic version includes rich equipment. Standard options include:
- 🚗 Security system Nissan Safety Shield: automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning.
- 📱 Multimedia: 7" touch screen with support Apple CarPlay And Android Auto, audio system with 6 speakers.
- 🪑 Comfort: heated front seats, climate control, cruise control.
- 🔑 Keyless Entry: system Intelligent Key with engine start button.
Top versions add leather steering wheel, 360° camera, adaptive cruise control And parking assistance system. Separately worth noting Note Medalist Autech — a version with a tuned body and improved interior trim, released in limited edition.
| Equipment | Engine | Box | Price (Japan, 2023) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medalist S | 1.2 HR12DE | CVT | ¥1,580,000 | Basic, without hybrid |
| Medalist G | 1.2 HR12DE | CVT | ¥1,750,000 | Additional comfort options |
| Medalist e-Power G | 1.2 + electric motor | CVT | ¥1,980,000 | Hybrid system |
| Medalist Autech | 1.2 HR12DE | CVT | ¥2,100,000 | Tuned body, premium finish |
Important: Hybrid versions e-Power require regular diagnostics of a high-voltage battery, especially when operating at low temperatures.
Pros and cons of the model
Nissan Note Medalist has a number of undeniable advantages, but also some disadvantages that you should know about in advance.
Benefits:
- ✅ Economical: one of the lowest fuel consumption in the class.
- ✅ Reliability: engine HR12DE and variator Xtronic time-tested.
- ✅ Spacious interior: Despite its compact dimensions, there is enough space in the back even for tall passengers.
- ✅ Rich equipment: even the basic version includes modern security systems.
Disadvantages:
- ❌ Noisy at high speeds: poor sound insulation of the body.
- ❌ Dynamics: The CVT and low-power engine do not provide sharp acceleration.
- ❌ Spare parts price: original parts for the Japanese version may cost more than for European counterparts.
- ❌ Suspension: a soft setting results in body roll in corners.
⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Note Medalist with mileage, be sure to check the service history of the variator. Its resource is approx. 150–200 thousand km, but with aggressive driving it can be reduced.
Comparison with competitors
In the compact hatchback class, Nissan Note Medalist There are several direct competitors: Toyota Aqua, Honda Fit And Suzuki Swift. Let's compare them based on key parameters.
| Model | Engine | Fuel consumption (l/100 km) | Price (Japan, 2023) | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Note Medalist | 1.2 + e-Power | 3.4–5.2 | ¥1,580,000–¥2,100,000 | Spacious interior, rich equipment |
| Toyota Aqua | 1.5 hybrid | 3.2–4.1 | ¥1,650,000–¥2,000,000 | More reliable hybrid, higher resale value |
| Honda Fit | 1.3 or 1.5 hybrid | 3.6–4.8 | ¥1,700,000–¥2,200,000 | Better handling, convertible interior |
| Suzuki Swift | 1.0 or 1.2 turbo | 4.2–5.5 | ¥1,450,000–¥1,800,000 | More dynamic, affordable price |
Conclusion: Note Medalist wins in terms of price and equipment, but is inferior Toyota Aqua in the reliability of the hybrid system and Honda Fit - in controllability. If they are critical for you interior space And low fuel consumption, then Nissan will be an excellent choice.
For urban use Nissan Note Medalist e-Power preferable to the gasoline version due to its efficiency and smoothness.
Owner reviews: real operating experience
Analysis of reviews on Japanese and Russian forums shows that most owners Nissan Note Medalist happy with our choice. Among the frequent positive aspects noted:
- 👍 “The car is very economical - I can travel almost 800 km on 40 liters of gasoline!” (owner of the hybrid version).
- 👍 "Surprisingly spacious inside, despite its compact appearance."
- 👍 “The safety systems work flawlessly, and the automatic braking is especially pleasing.”
However, there are also criticisms:
- 👎 “On the highway, when overtaking, you have to put a lot of pressure on the gas - there’s not enough dynamics.”
- 👎 "Noise insulation is rather weak; wind noise is heard at speeds above 100 km/h."
- 👎 "Original spare parts are expensive, but you can find analogues cheaper."
⚠️ Attention: Owners of hybrid versions e-Power note that in cold weather (-15°C and below) actual fuel consumption can increase to 5.5–6.0 l/100 km due to the need to warm up the interior.
On the secondary market Note Medalist holds the price better than standard versions Nissan Note, thanks to higher demand for equipment Medalist.
Tips for choosing and purchasing
If you decide to buy Nissan Note Medalist, please pay attention to the following points:
Mileage (optimally up to 80,000 km)
Body safety (check for corrosion in arches and sills)
Condition of the variator (is there any jerking when switching)
Operation of the hybrid system (for e-Power)
Availability of a service book with maintenance notes-->
When buying used:
- Check your car's history via CarVertical or Carfax - this will help you avoid buying a used or credit car.
- Please note the condition battery (especially in hybrid versions). Its resource is about
100–150 thousand km. - Make sure all electronic systems (cameras, sensors) are working correctly. Repairing electronics can be expensive.
If you are choosing between a petrol and hybrid version, consider:
- 🔋 e-Power more economical, but more expensive to maintain.
- ⛽ Petrol version easier to repair and cheaper to buy.
During a test drive, be sure to check the operation of the variator when it is cold - if there are delays when starting to move, this may indicate wear.
Maintenance and common faults
Nissan Note Medalist — a reliable car, but it also has “weak points”:
- 🔧 CVT Xtronic CVT: requires oil changes every
60,000 km. If you ignore the regulations, jerking and overheating are possible. - 🔋 Hybrid battery (e-Power): begins to lose capacity after
150,000 km. Replacement costs¥300,000–¥500,000. - 🚗 Suspension: stabilizer links and bushings wear out
80,000–100,000 km. - 🔌 Electronics: Sometimes the system sensors glitch Safety Shield, especially after an accident.
Maintenance schedule:
| Type of work | Frequency | Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Changing the engine oil | Every 10,000 km | ¥5,000–¥8,000 |
| Changing the oil in the variator | Every 60,000 km | ¥15,000–¥20,000 |
| Replacing brake pads | Every 40,000–50,000 km | ¥10,000–¥15,000 (front) |
| Hybrid system diagnostics | Every 20,000 km | ¥3,000–¥5,000 |
⚠️ Attention: The use of non-original oil in the variator can lead to its premature failure. Nissan recommends only NS-3.
For hybrid versions, it is critical to monitor the condition battery cooling systems. Overheating can significantly shorten its service life.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Note Medalist
Is it possible to install gas equipment on Note Medalist?
Technically possible, but not recommended for hybrid versions e-Power, as this may interfere with the operation of the energy recovery system. For gasoline versions, 4th generation equipment is suitable, but the ECU requires flashing.
What is the resource of the engine? HR12DE?
With proper maintenance, the engine can be easily maintained 300,000–400,000 km. The main thing is to change the oil regularly (every 10,000 km) and monitor the cooling system.
How is it different? Note Medalist from usual Nissan Note?
Medalist - This is a version with an expanded configuration: improved interior trim, additional comfort and safety options, as well as exclusive color options. Technically, the platform and engines are identical.
Is it worth buying Note Medalist with mileage over 100,000 km?
It is possible, but only subject to a complete diagnosis of the variator and hybrid system (if any). Pay attention to the service history - if the oil in the variator has not been changed, the risk of breakdown is high.
What kind of oil to pour into the variator Xtronic CVT?
Only original Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3. The use of analogues can lead to belt slippage and failure of the variator.