Compact Nissan Note is one of the most practical hatchbacks in its class, combining urban agility with amazing space. But the question is “how many places in Nissan Note? often causes confusion: the manufacturer offered models with different numbers of seats, and owners do not always know how to properly transform the interior. In this article we will analyze all the layout options, the nuances of the 5- and 7-seat versions, and also give advice on choosing a configuration to suit your needs.
Spoiler: standard Note designed for 5 passengers, but in some markets (for example, Japan) there were modifications with a third row of seats. Moreover, even in the basic version, the interior can be adapted for the transportation of large cargo or child seats - the main thing is to know the subtleties of the transformation. Next we will tell you how this works in practice.
Standard layout: 5 seats in Nissan Note
Most Nissan Note, sold in Europe and Russia, are equipped with a classic 5-seater layout: two front seats and a three-seat rear sofa. This scheme is optimal for families with 1–2 children or for use as a city car. It is important to understand that despite the compact external dimensions (length ~4.1 m), the interior Note designed with ergonomics in mind:
- 🪑 Front seats — with height adjustment (in top versions), which allows drivers of different heights to find a comfortable position.
- 👨👩👧👦 Rear sofa — separate (60:40), with the ability to fold to increase the trunk up to
1,336 l(depending on generation). - 👶 ISOFIX mountings — are provided in the outer seats of the second row, which is critical for families with children.
However, not everything is so ideal: if passengers are taller than 180 cm Rear seats may feel cramped in the knee area, especially if the front seat is moved back. This is a common problem with subcompact hatchbacks, and Note no exception. The problem can only be solved by correctly adjusting the position of the seats or choosing a modification with an extended wheelbase (for example, Note e-Power second generation).
- Constantly (family/colleagues)
- Sometimes (1-2 times a week)
- Occasionally (once a month)
- Never, only luggage
7-seater versions: myth or reality?
Many are surprised to learn that Nissan Note can be 7-seater. Indeed, such modifications existed, but with important caveats:
- Japan market: produced only for the domestic market Note Autech with third row of seats (optional
"7-Seater Package"). These machines were not officially supplied to Europe or Russia. - Limited space: The third row is intended for children or passengers up to 150 cm tall. Adults will be uncomfortable there even over short distances.
- trunk: When the third row seats are raised, the trunk volume is reduced to
130–150 l— only enough for a bag of groceries.
If you come across an offer for the sale of a 7-seater Note in Russia, you should be wary: most likely it is:
- 🚗 Car from Japan with refurbished interior (not always legal).
- 📄 Auto with incorrect documents, where the number of seats does not correspond to the PTS.
How to check the legality of the 7-seater Note?
The PTS and STS must indicate the exact number of seats (5 or 7). If the documents say 5, and the seller claims that the car is a 7-seater, this is a reason to refuse the deal or carefully check the car’s history through GIBDD.rf or Autocode.
Comparison of 5- and 7-seat versions: table of key differences
| Parameter | 5-seater Nissan Note | 7-seater Nissan Note (Autech) |
|---|---|---|
| Body length | 4 100–4 140 mm | 4 100–4 140 mm (unchanged) |
| Wheelbase | 2 600 mm | 2 600 mm |
| Trunk volume (all seats up) | 350–410 l | 130–150 l |
| Comfort for adults in the 3rd row | — | ❌ No (only for children) |
| Availability on the Russian market | ✅ Official | ❌ Only “gray” import |
The table shows that the 7-seater version is more of a marketing ploy for the Japanese market, where compact cars are often used to transport children to school or to activities. In reality this Note loses even to its 5-seater counterparts in terms of practicality. If you need a really roomy car, it's better to consider Nissan Serena or X-Trail.
The 7-seater Nissan Note is a compromise solution, suitable only for rare trips with children. For everyday use, the 5-seater version is much more practical.
How to transform the interior of a 5-seater Note for maximum comfort?
Even in the basic configuration Nissan Note offers several options for transforming the interior. Here's how to use space effectively:
Fold the rear bench in a 60:40 split for transporting long loads|
Adjust the recline of the rear seatbacks (if equipped)|
Use the trunk space to store small items|
Install an organizer on the back of the front seats for children's things|
Remove the rear headrests to increase visibility (if not carrying passengers) -->
A particularly useful feature «Easy Flex Seating System»** (available in top versions), which allows you to:
- 🔄 Move the front passenger seat forward, freeing up space for long items (such as skis).
- 🪑 Adjust the height of the trunk floor (two-level floor) to hide valuables or create a flat surface.
- 👶 Installing a child seat in the front seat (with airbag disabled).
At the same time, it is important to remember about safety: if you are transporting cargo in the rear passenger seat, be sure to secure it with belts or a net. B Note There is no partition between the passenger compartment and the trunk, so loose objects during sudden braking can injure passengers.
To transport pets in the Note, use a special mesh divider (for example, Nissan Pet Barrier). It is attached to the backs of the front seats and prevents your pet from jumping into the cabin.
Which Note version to choose: advice on configurations
When choosing Nissan Note The number of seats is not the only criterion. Here's what else to pay attention to:
- Vehicle generation:
- 🚘 First generation (E11, 2004–2012) - easier to repair, but less comfortable.
- 🚗 Second generation (E12, 2012–2020) — better sound insulation, more modern equipment.
- ⚡ Note e-Power (from 2020) - hybrid installation, but the interior is identical to the gasoline versions.
- Equipment:
- 🎧
"Comfort"— basic, without seat height adjustment. - 🌟
"Tekna"— top-end, with leather interior and heated all seats.
- 🎧
Ideal for families with children Note Tekna second generation: there is climate control, a rear view camera and a system «Around View Monitor»**, which simplifies parking in tight yards. If your budget is limited, you might consider "Acenta" - it already has ISOFIX and folding rear seats.
When buying a used Note, be sure to check the condition of the rear seats: their fastenings often wear out due to frequent folding. Ask the seller to demonstrate the interior transformation before the transaction.
Common mistakes when operating the Note interior
Owners Nissan Note often encounter problems due to improper use of the salon. Here's what to do not worth it:
⚠️ Attention! Do not carry in the back seat Note three adult passengers at the same time - the central seat does not have a headrest and a three-point seat belt (lap only). This violates traffic rules and is dangerous in case of an accident.
- 🚫 Ignore weight restrictions: maximum rear axle load -
400–450 kg(check the manual for details). Excess weight leads to suspension sagging and poor handling. - 🚫 Fold down seats with a load on them: the transformation mechanism is not designed to withstand the load, this may break the clamps.
- 🚫 Use non-certified child seats: in Note The rear seats are narrow, and not all seats are the right width.
Another common mistake is incorrect installation of the luggage net. If it is attached only to the backs of the seats (without fixing it to the body), in the event of an accident the net may tear and the load may fly forward. In original grids Nissan for Note There are attachments to body points - use only them.
FAQ: answers to popular questions about Nissan Note
Is it possible to officially convert a 5-seat Note into a 7-seat?
No, this tuning is not certified by the manufacturer. In Russia, any changes in the number of seats must be agreed with the traffic police, and for Note this is almost impossible due to the lack of official components for the third row. In addition, re-equipment will entail problems with passing technical inspection.
What is the Note's trunk volume with the seats folded down?
The volume depends on the generation and configuration:
- First generation (E11): to
1,336 l. - Second generation (E12): to
1,480 l(taking into account the space up to the ceiling).
For comparison: Toyota Yaris the trunk is smaller (~1,000 l), and Honda Jazz - about the same.
Will a child seat fit in the front seat of the Note?
Yes, but only if the following conditions are met:
- Disable front airbag (if the seat is installed against the direction of travel).
- Use a chair with anchorage
ISOFIXor seat belts. - Move the seat as far back as possible for the child's safety.
Remember that the safest place for a child seat is back row (according to crash tests).
How does the Note e-Power interior differ from the petrol one?
In hybrid version Note e-Power The interior is identical to the petrol versions, but there are two key differences:
- 🔋 Gear selector - electronic (as in Nissan Leaf), without the traditional lever.
- 📉 trunk — slightly smaller due to the location of the battery (volume reduced by ~50 l).
Otherwise, the ergonomics and interior transformation are no different.
Which Note is better for a family with two children?
Optimal choice - Nissan Note Tekna second generation (2016–2020) with the following options:
- 👍 Rear seats with backrest tilt adjustment.
- 🌡️ Climate control (separate settings for driver and passenger).
- 📱 Multimedia system with
Apple CarPlay/Android Auto(to distract children with cartoons).
Alternative - Note Acenta with package "Family", where there is door protection from child impacts and cup holders for rear passengers.