Nissan Note - one of the most underrated hatchbacks in its class, which combines Japanese reliability, practicality and an unexpectedly spacious interior for a compact car. This model, first introduced in 2004, went through several generations, but never received widespread recognition in the Russian market, losing the palm Toyota Yaris And Hyundai Solaris. However, Note there are trump cards that make it a good buy: from the unique system Eco Mode to incredibly flexible interior transformation.
In this article we will look at Nissan Note in detail: from technical nuances to hidden problems that dealers are silent about. You will learn which engines are the most reliable, how to avoid common breakdowns and why the second generation of the model (2012–2020) is considered the most balanced. And let’s compare Note with its main competitors and answer the question: is it worth buying this hatchback today, in 2026?
1. Generations of Nissan Note: evolution from 2004 to the present day
Over 20 years of production Nissan Note passed through three generations, each of which had its own characteristics. First generation (2004–2012, E11) was remembered for its unusual design with a high seating position and a “smiling” front part, as well as a revolutionary interior transformation system for that time Flexi-Board. However, it was the second generation (2012–2020, E12) has become the most popular - thanks to improved ergonomics, more reliable engines and the appearance of a hybrid version.
Third generation (2020–present, E13) radically changed the concept: the car became lower, narrower and more dynamic, losing some of its practicality for the sake of a sporty image. This version is not officially sold in Russia, so the main choice of buyers is used second-generation vehicles or rare “gray” third-generation cars.
- 🔹 1st generation (E11, 2004–2012): high body, unusual design, weak engines (1.4–1.6 l), problems with the CVT gearbox in the early years.
- 🔹 2nd generation (E12, 2012–2020): The optimal choice is a reliable 1.2-liter turbo engine, improved CVT, hybrid version (Japan only).
- 🔹 3rd generation (E13, 2020–present): low body, “sports hatchback” style, loss of practicality, unofficial in Russia.
Important nuance: second generation Nissan Note (E12) with HR12DE engine (1.2 l, 98 hp) and CVT - the most balanced option for purchase on the secondary market. These engines rarely “die” up to 200,000 km, and the CVT, with proper maintenance, lasts 150,000+ km.
- First (2004–2012)
- Second (2012–2020)
- Third (2020–present)
- I don't know, I haven't decided yet
2. Technical characteristics: engines, gearboxes and suspension
Under the hood Nissan Note gasoline naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines with a volume of 1.2 to 1.6 liters were installed. The most common options on the Russian market:
| Engine | Volume/Power | Gearbox | Consumption (city), l/100 km | Typical problems |
|---|---|---|---|---|
HR12DE |
1.2 l / 98 hp | 5MT/CVT | 6.5–7.5 | Problems with the timing chain after 150,000 km, oil seal leaks |
HR16DE |
1.6 l / 110–117 hp | 5MT/CVT | 7.5–8.5 | Increased oil consumption after 100,000 km, noise in the timing belt |
DIG-T R9M (turbo) |
1.2 l / 115 hp | 6MT/CVT | 6.0–7.0 | Sensitivity to fuel quality, problems with the turbine after 120,000 km |
Particular attention should be paid variator Jatco JF015E, which was installed on most versions. With proper maintenance (oil change every 60,000 km!) it runs for a long time, but if you ignore the regulations, expect jerks and breakdowns after 100,000 km. A manual transmission is more reliable, but less common.
Suspension Note simple and repairable: front - MacPherson struts, behind - semi-independent beam. The main weak points: stabilizer struts (change every 50,000 km) and rear beam bushings (begin to creak after 80,000 km).
⚠️ Attention: if you buy a used one Nissan Note with a CVT, the seller says that “the oil in the CVT is filled for the entire service life” - this is a reason to doubt the honesty. Even the official Nissan regulations provide for changing the oil in the variator every 90,000 km (and in Russian conditions - more often!).
3. Interior and ergonomics: why the Note is more spacious than it seems
Main advantage Nissan Note — unexpectedly large interior for a compact hatchback (length 4.1 m). Thanks to the high seating position and flat floor, rear passengers feel comfortable even on long journeys. The trunk volume is 354 liters (1,171 liters with the seats folded), which is comparable to some crossovers!
A unique feature of the model is the system Flexi-Board (in the first generation) and Divide-N-Hide (in the second). This is a movable trunk floor that can be raised to create a hidden compartment, or lowered to transport large cargo. In the second generation the function appeared Easy Flex Seat — The rear sofa folds into an almost flat floor.
- 🪑 Front seats: good lateral support, but the airbags are a bit short for tall drivers.
- 👨👩👧👦 Back row: legroom - 85 cm (more than Toyota Yaris), but the ceiling is too low for passengers above 180 cm.
- 🎧 Shumka: at speeds above 100 km/h, noise from the wheels is heard (especially with studded tires).
If you plan to transport to Note large loads (for example, a bicycle), pay attention to versions with the function Easy Flex Seat — the rear sofa folds into a flat floor in one operation.
4. Reliability and typical problems: what to look for when buying
Nissan Note the second generation (E12) is considered the most reliable, but it also has weaknesses. Here's what to check first:
Check the history of oil changes in the variator (there should be receipts)
Inspect the timing chain for tension (characteristic “blinking” when cold)
Test drive: are there any jerks during acceleration (problems with CVT)
Check the play in the steering rack (a common problem after 100,000 km)
Inspect the rear beam for corrosion (weak point when driving on salt) -->
The most common complaints from owners:
- CVT JF015E: if the oil has not been changed, jerking begins after 100,000 km, and a replacement may be required by 150,000 km.
- Timing chain: on motors
HR12DEAndHR16DEstretches to 150,000–180,000 km (replacement costs 25,000–35,000 rubles). - Electrics: parking sensors and rear view camera often malfunction (especially in cold weather).
- Body: the sills and wheel arches rust (check the anti-corrosion treatment!).
What happens if you don’t change the oil in the variator?
If you ignore changing the oil in the CVT Nissan Note First, jerks appear during acceleration, then the variator begins to “slip” on inclines. In critical cases, the entire box must be replaced (cost: from 200,000 rubles). Signs of a “dying” variator: burning smell from oil, vibrations at idle, error P17F0 (CVT overheating).
⚠️ Attention: if upon inspection it is used Nissan Note you see that the oil in the variator is black and smells of burning - this means that it has not been changed for at least 100,000 km. It’s not worth buying such a car, even if the seller promises to “just change the oil.”
5. Comparison with competitors: Note vs Yaris vs Solaris
Main rivals Nissan Note on the secondary market - Toyota Yaris (XP130) and Hyundai Solaris (RB). Let's compare them based on key parameters:
| Parameter | Nissan Note (E12) | Toyota Yaris (XP130) | Hyundai Solaris (RB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Used price (2015, 100,000 km) | 750 000–900 000 ₽ | 900 000–1 100 000 ₽ | 800 000–950 000 ₽ |
| Trunk volume, l | 354 (1 171) | 286 (768) | 480 (1 480) |
| CVT reliability | Medium (requires maintenance) | High (Toyota CVT is more reliable) | No CVT (automatic/manual transmission only) |
| Fuel consumption (1.2–1.6 l) | 6.5–8.5 l/100 km | 5.5–7.5 l/100 km | 6.0–8.0 l/100 km |
Conclusions:
- 💰 Note cheaper Yaris by 15–20%, but is inferior in reliability to the variator.
- 🚗 Solaris more practical (larger trunk), but less dynamic.
- ⚡ Yaris more economical and reliable, but tighter and more expensive to maintain.
If you need the most reliable and economical hatchback, take it Toyota Yaris. If space and price are more important - Nissan Note the second generation will be an excellent compromise.
6. Prices and configurations: what the market offers in 2026
On the secondary market in Russia Nissan Note second generation (2012–2020) in good condition costs from 650,000 to 1,200,000 RUR, depending on the year, mileage and configuration. The most popular versions:
- 🔘 Visia (basic): air conditioning, 2 airbags, steel wheels. Price: 650,000–750,000 rubles.
- 🔘 Acenta (average): climate control, cruise control, alloy wheels, multimedia with camera. Price: 800,000–950,000 rubles.
- 🔘 Tekna (top): leather interior, heated seats, LED headlights, system
Around View Monitor. Price: 950,000–1,200,000 rubles.
New Note third generation models are not officially sold in Russia, but they can be imported from Japan to order. Cost starts from 1 800 000 ₽ (taking into account customs clearance), which makes the purchase impractical - for this money there are more interesting options (for example, Toyota Corolla Hatchback).
When buying used Nissan Note pay attention to versions with engine HR12DE (1.2 l) and a manual transmission - they are more reliable and cheaper to maintain than options with a CVT.
7. Owner reviews: pros and cons from real experience
After analyzing the reviews on Drive2, Drom.ru and thematic forums, we have highlighted the main pros and cons Nissan Note:
Pros:
- ✅ Spacious interior for a compact hatchback.
- ✅ Low fuel consumption (especially for 1.2-liter versions).
- ✅ Reliable engines (with timely maintenance).
- ✅ Flexible transformation of the trunk (
Flexi-Board). - ✅ Low cost of ownership (cheap spare parts, simple design).
Cons:
- ❌ Noisy interior at high speeds.
- ❌ The variator requires strict adherence to service regulations.
- ❌ Poor noise insulation (especially in the first generation).
- ❌ Low residual value (it will not be possible to resell profitably).
Typical owner quotes:
"Bought Note 2015 with a mileage of 80,000 km - not a single serious breakdown in two years, only consumables. The car surprises with its spaciousness, although it looks small from the outside." (Alexey, Moscow)
“The variator started to twitch at 120,000 km - I had to do a complete oil change with flushing. Now everything is fine, but now I change the oil every 50,000 km.” (Igor, St. Petersburg)
8. Is it worth buying a Nissan Note in 2026?
Nissan Note second generation (2012–2020) is an excellent choice for those looking for practical, low-maintenance hatchback with Japanese reliability. It will suit:
- 👨👩👧 For families with children (spacious interior, flexible trunk).
- 🚶 City residents (compact dimensions, low consumption).
- 💰 For those who want to save on purchases and maintenance (cheaper Toyota Yaris by 15–20%).
But there are also cases when it is better to refuse a purchase:
- ❌ If you need a quiet and comfortable car for long trips (the noise is rather weak).
- ❌ If you are not ready to strictly monitor the maintenance of the variator.
- ❌ If you plan to resell the car in 2-3 years (demand for Note lower than Solaris or Yaris).
Nissan Note is a car for rational buyers who value practicality and reliability above brand prestige. If you're willing to put up with highway noise and keep an eye on the CVT, this is one of the best buys in the used hatchback class.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Nissan Note
❓ Which Nissan Note engine is the most reliable?
The most reliable motor HR12DE (1.2 l, 98 hp). It is easier to maintain than the 1.6-liter HR16DE, and is less likely to suffer from oil consumption. Turbocharged DIG-T R9M more powerful, but sensitive to fuel quality.
❓ How long does the CVT on a Nissan Note last?
With proper maintenance (oil change every 60,000 km), the CVT JF015E runs 150,000–200,000 km. If you ignore replacements, the resource is reduced to 100,000 km.
❓ Is it possible to put gas on a Nissan Note?
Technically yes, but it is not recommended for engines with a CVT - HBO increases the load on the box. The best option for gas is Note with manual transmission and engine HR16DE.
❓ Which tires are best for Nissan Note?
Optimal sizes: 185/65 R15 or 195/55 R16. Suitable for winter Nokian Hakkapeliitta R3 or Michelin X-Ice North, for summer - Continental PremiumContact 6.
❓ Where is the best place to buy spare parts for Nissan Note?
Original spare parts are expensive, but there are high-quality analogues:
- 🔧 Suspension: Sachs, Monroe.
- 🛢️ Oil in the variator: original only
NS-2orNS-3. - 🔋 Battery: Bosch S4 or Varta Blue Dynamic.