Nissan Note E11 restyling: a complete guide to the updated version

In the world of compact hatchbacks, the model Nissan Note the second generation (E11 body) occupied a niche that had previously been successfully held by Japanese competitors. The restyled version, which went on sale in 2018, was not just a cosmetic update, but a deep rethinking of the concept of a city car. The company's engineers tried to take into account all the comments of the owners of earlier versions, focusing on increasing comfort, improving sound insulation and modernizing the appearance.

For many buyers restyling became a decisive factor in the choice, as it brought significant changes to the optics, bumpers and interior. Now this is not just a utilitarian vehicle for delivering children to school or commuting to work, but a full-fledged urban cross-hatchback with elements of style. Particular attention should be paid to how ergonomics have changed and what new technologies have been introduced into the multimedia system.

Exterior changes and new body design

The first thing that catches your eye when looking at the updated Nissan Note E11 - This is an aggressive and more modern front bumper. The designers increased the size of the air intakes, which visually made the car wider and sportier. The radiator grille received a new shape, reminiscent of wings, which became a signature feature of the brand at that time. This transformation helped the car look more expensive and status-rich, which was important for the B-class segment.

The rear of the car has also undergone significant changes. The new LED lights have become more elongated and are integrated into the trunk lid, creating the effect of a single whole with the body. The rear bumper has become more massive, with an imitation diffuser, which adds dynamics even in static conditions. LED optics is now available not only in top trim levels, but also in the mid-segment, which significantly improves visibility at night.

The color range has been expanded with new shades, including deep black metallic and bright orange, which perfectly emphasizes the lines of the body. However, it is worth noting that the quality of the paintwork on the restyled versions has remained at the same level: it is thin and requires careful maintenance. When operating in an aggressive urban environment (reagents, gravel), the body may require additional protection.

• New front bumper shape with large air intakes
• Taillights with LED filling and updated design
• Extended range of exterior colors for customization

It is important to understand that aerodynamics have been improved due to more streamlined shapes, which has a positive effect on fuel consumption when driving on the highway. Aerodynamic drag decreased, which allows the car to better maintain speed at high speeds without excessive noise.

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing a used restyled copy, be sure to check for factory markings on the headlights, as non-original LED units that quickly fail are often found on the secondary market.

Interior and cabin ergonomics

Salon Nissan Note E11 after the update it became much more comfortable and functional. The main emphasis was placed on the quality of materials: the plastic became softer to the touch, and the seams on the seat upholstery were made of better quality. The center console has received a new design, where the multimedia system is integrated more harmoniously, without disturbing the overall line of the interior. The control ergonomics remained logical and intuitive, which is the hallmark of Japanese cars.

The seats have improved lateral support and more dense padding, which reduces driver fatigue on long trips. Headroom and legroom remain at a high level thanks to the original body design. Space for passengers the back row now allows even adults of average height to sit comfortably. However, due to the high trunk floor, loading large items can be difficult.

The restyled multimedia system has a large touch screen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This was a huge improvement over earlier versions, where the interface was outdated and awkward. Now you can control navigation, music and calls directly from the screen without taking your eyes off the road. Voice control has also been improved and now responds to commands faster.

• Soft materials on the dashboard and door panels
• Modern multimedia with smartphone support
• Improved sound insulation of doors and floors

It is worth noting that in the basic configurations the quality of the plastic is still hard, which can be irritating to tactile contact. But even in this case, the assembly of the interior is performed at a high level: the gaps are uniform, there are no squeaks. Build quality - this is something that has always been valued in Nissan, and restyling confirmed this.

Technical characteristics and engines

Under the hood of the restyled Nissan Note E11 time-tested power units remained, but with modifications to comply with Euro-6 environmental standards. The main engine is a 1.2-liter naturally aspirated (HR12DE) with a power of 80 hp, which is paired with a CVT or manual transmission. This engine is reliable and economical, consuming only about 5.5 liters of fuel in the combined cycle. For those who value dynamics, a 1.2-liter turbo engine (HR12DDR) with a power of 115 hp was offered.

An important innovation was the system i-Stop for the turbocharged version, which allows you to quickly restart the engine when stopped in traffic. This significantly reduces fuel consumption in city mode. The XtrCVT variator received new control algorithms, which made switching smoother and more invisible to the driver. Now the car does not “kick” under sudden acceleration, which was a problem in earlier versions.

A turbocharged engine requires higher quality fuel and regular oil changes. When using low-quality gasoline, detonation is possible, which can lead to failure of the piston group. Turbocharging adds confidence to the car when overtaking, but requires more careful maintenance. Fuel consumption in this case increases to 7-8 liters in the city, but this is compensated by better dynamics.

Engine	Volume (l)	Power (hp)	Gearbox	Acceleration 0-100 km/h (sec)
HR12DE	1.2	80	Manual transmission / CVT	12.9
HR12DDR	1.2 (Turbo)	115	CVT	10.2
HR12DE Hybrid	1.2 (mild)	98	CVT	11.5

A mild hybrid system has become available on some trims, adding a small electric motor to assist with starting from a standing start. This saves fuel and reduces CO2 emissions. Hybrid technology in this case it is not full-fledged, but it works effectively in the “start-stop” mode.

Suspension features and handling

Suspension Nissan Note E11 after restyling it was slightly modified to improve comfort. The front MacPherson strut remained unchanged, but the characteristics of the shock absorbers and springs were changed. The rear torsion beam now handles minor irregularities better without transmitting them to the body. Smooth ride has become one of the main advantages of the car in its class.

Handling remains light and precise, ideal for urban environments. The steering wheel is light weight, which makes parking and maneuvering in heavy traffic easier. However, at high speeds the steering can feel too light, requiring more concentration from the driver. Stability on the highway ensured by a wide wheelbase and body rigidity.

The vehicle's ground clearance is 150 mm, which allows you to feel confident on dirt roads and parked curbs. However, you should be careful with deep holes, as protection for the engine and underbody is minimal. Clearance sufficient for the city, but this car should not be perceived as an SUV.

• Improved rear torsion beam performance
• Light steering for city driving
• Optimal ground clearance for rough terrain

When cornering at high speeds, the body leans noticeably, but this is compensated by good tire grip. Road grip provided with modern tires, which are included in the delivery package. In winter, it is recommended to use studded tires, as standard tires may not cope with ice.

⚠️ Attention: When replacing shock absorbers on restyled versions, it is important to install original parts or high-quality analogues, since incompatibility can lead to wheel alignment problems and rapid wear of the rubber.

Operation and Maintenance

Service Nissan Note E11 is not difficult for most car owners. The maintenance regulations require an oil change every 15,000 km or once a year, but experienced mechanics advise reducing this interval to 10,000 km to preserve engine life. Engine life with proper care it can exceed 300,000 km without major repairs. The main components and assemblies are accessible and do not require complex dismantling for replacement.

The CVT gearbox requires special attention. The oil filter and fluid in the variator must be changed every 60,000 km. Ignoring this procedure may result in failure of the valve body or cones. Changing the oil in the variator is a critical procedure that prolongs the life of the transmission. It is also worth monitoring the condition of the timing belt, which is changed every 120,000 km.

The car's electrical system is reliable, but sometimes problems can arise with the parking sensors or keyless entry system. During the cold season, the battery capacity may decrease, which requires its timely replacement. Battery in this model it has standard dimensions and can be easily replaced independently. The cost of spare parts is on average lower than that of European competitors.

The body requires regular washing, especially in winter, when reagents are used on the roads. Particular attention should be paid to thresholds and arches, where dirt and moisture can accumulate. Corrosion - this is the weak point of many Japanese cars, so timely anti-corrosion treatment will not be superfluous. The windshield has a high level of strength, but if hit by a stone, it may require replacement due to the nature of the installation.

What to do if the Check Engine light comes on?

If your check engine light comes on, don't panic. First check the fuel level and condition of the spark plugs. If the problem cannot be solved, contact a diagnostician to read errors using an OBD-II scanner. Often the problem may be with the oxygen sensor or catalyst.

Comparison with competitors

In the compact hatchback segment Nissan Note E11 competes with models such as the Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit and VW Polo. The main advantage of Nissan is its spacious interior and high level of driving comfort. Interior space outperforms many competitors thanks to its unique roof design. However, in terms of the level of technical equipment in the base, it may be inferior to some European models.

Compared to the Toyota Yaris, the Note offers a softer suspension and better sound insulation. The Honda Fit wins in trunk space thanks to the Magic Seats system, but falls short in the quality of interior materials. The VW Polo offers firmer suspension and better highway handling, but has a cramped cabin. Balance of price and quality Nissan Note remains one of the best on the market.

The company's pricing policy makes this car accessible to a wide range of buyers. The cost of maintenance and spare parts also remains at an acceptable level. Liquidity on the secondary market is high, which makes it easy to sell a car if desired. The owners note the reliability and unpretentiousness of the model in Russian operating conditions.

• Best sound insulation in class
• Spacious interior and high ceiling
• Affordable cost of service and spare parts

Results and recommendations for choosing

Restyled version Nissan Note E11 became a mature product that corrected many of the mistakes of its predecessor. The combination of modern design, spacious interior and efficient engines makes it an attractive proposition in the market. Modern design and improved ergonomics make driving enjoyable and comfortable. However, it is worth considering the features of the variator and the need for regular maintenance.

When choosing a used car, be sure to check the service history and signs of an accident. Pay special attention to the condition of the variator and the operation of the turbocharger if a turbo engine is selected. History check will help you avoid buying a problem car. It is also worth paying attention to the presence of all the options that were stated in the package.

Overall, this car deserves attention as a reliable and practical option for city life. It is great for families with children as it is safe and convenient. Security is ensured by the presence of airbags and stabilization systems. If you are looking for a car that will last a long time and does not require constant investment, Nissan Note - an excellent choice.

Do not forget about the need for regular maintenance and the use of high-quality consumables. This is the key to long and trouble-free operation of your car. High-quality consumables will extend the service life of all components and assemblies. Proper care and attention to detail will make operating your car comfortable and safe.

⚠️ Attention: When buying a used car, be sure to conduct computer diagnostics of the engine and variator to identify hidden errors and wear of parts that are not visible during visual inspection.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Which engine is better to choose for Nissan Note E11 restyling?

For quiet city driving, the naturally aspirated 1.2 l (80 hp) engine is ideal, which is reliable and economical. If you need dynamics and confident overtaking, you should consider the 1.2 liter turbocharged version (115 hp), but it requires more careful maintenance and high-quality fuel.

How often do you need to change the oil in the variator on a Nissan Note E11?

Although the manufacturer may indicate an interval of 90,000 km, experienced mechanics recommend changing the oil and filter in the CVT every 60,000 km to extend the life of the transmission and prevent costly repairs.

What is the ground clearance of the Nissan Note E11 after restyling?

The car's ground clearance is 150 mm, which is a good indicator for a city hatchback. This allows you to confidently overcome city bumps and small curbs, but you should not perceive the car as an SUV for serious off-road use.

How reliable is the multimedia system in the restyled version?

The multimedia system in the restyling is significantly improved compared to earlier versions. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, works stably, but sometimes may require a reboot if it freezes. In general, reliability is at a high level for this segment.

Is it worth buying a used Nissan Note E11?

Yes, this is one of the most reliable options in the class. The main thing is to carefully check the service history, especially the condition of the CVT and engine. If you have a full set of documents and regular maintenance, the car will last a long time and will not cause serious problems.