Nissan Note - a compact hatchback, which over the 20 years of its existence has gained popularity due to its practicality, efficiency and non-standard design. The model went through two generations (E11 And E12), each of which had its own unique features and target audience. In this article we will look at all generations Note in detail: from technical characteristics to typical problems faced by owners.

The car was positioned as a city assistant with an emphasis on functionality and a spacious interior despite its modest dimensions. The version with the system especially stood out e-Power - a hybrid installation, which has become the hallmark of the latest modifications. But not everything is so smooth: each generation has its own “diseases” that are important to know about before purchasing. Next - analysis by bones.

E11 generation (2004–2013): revolutionary debut

First generation Nissan Note (index E11) debuted in 2004 and immediately attracted attention with its unusual design with a high roof and a short hood. The car was built on a platform Nissan B, common with Micra K12, but had a more spacious interior and an enlarged trunk (up to 350 l as standard). In Europe the model was sold under the name Nissan Note, and in Japan - like Nissan Cube (not to be confused with the model of the same name for the American market).

Under the hood, gasoline engines with a volume of 1.4 l (90 hp) and 1.6 l (110 hp), as well as diesel 1.5 dCi (86 or 106 hp) - the latter was especially popular in Europe due to its efficiency. Transmissions: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. A unique feature of the E11 is the system Flexi-Board, allowing you to transform the luggage compartment using a movable shelf.

  • ✅ Pros: spacious interior, good visibility, reliable diesel engines.
  • ⚠️ Cons: poor sound insulation, sills prone to corrosion, problems with automatic transmission.
  • 🔧 Typical faults: leaks of crankshaft seals, failure of the throttle position sensor.

On the secondary market Note E11 often found in packages Visia (basic), Acenta (with air conditioning and power accessories) and Tekna (leather interior, climate control). Prices for used copies start from 250 000 ₽, but it is important to check the service history - especially when it comes to diesel versions with mileage over 150,000 km.

📊 Which generation of Nissan Note do you like best?
  • E11 (2004–2013)
  • E12 (2013–2020)
  • e-Power (2020–present)
  • I don't know

Generation E12 (2013–2020): evolution or step back?

Second generation (E12) appeared in 2013 and received a more modern design, but lost some of the charisma of its predecessor. The car has become longer 90 mm, and the wheelbase increased to 2600 mm, which had a positive effect on rear legroom. However, the high floor level (due to the location of the fuel tank under the front seats) caused criticism - it became less convenient to get in and out.

The range of engines included gasoline 1.2 DIG-S (98 hp) turbocharged and 1.5 dCi (90 hp), as well as a hybrid system e-Power (Japanese market only). The latter combined a 1.2-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor and a CVT - a solution that later migrated to global models. The hybrid was not offered in Europe, which became one of the main disappointments for fans of the brand.

Characteristics E11 (2004–2013) E12 (2013–2020)
Length, mm 3990 4100
Trunk volume, l 350 385
Minimum fuel consumption, l/100 km 4.2 (1.5 dCi) 3.8 (1.5 dCi)
Gearbox type Manual transmission/automatic transmission-4 Manual/CVT

Among the typical problems E12 — overheating of the variator (especially when towing), oil leaks from under the valve cover and electronic malfunctions (for example, malfunctions of the touch screen of the multimedia system). Owners also complain about noisy suspension - knocking noises in the front struts often appear after 60,000 km.

⚠️ Attention: Upon purchase Note E12 with a CVT, be sure to check the transmission oil change history. The manufacturer recommends replacing the fluid every 60,000 km, but in practice many services advise reducing the interval to 40,000 km.

e-Power system: a hybrid with Japanese character

The main innovation of recent years is the hybrid installation e-Power, which debuted in 2016 in the Japanese market. Unlike classical hybrids (for example, Toyota Prius), here is a gasoline engine 1.2 l works exclusively as a generator for an electric motor, and the wheels are driven only by electricity. This solution made it possible to achieve fuel consumption at the level 3.4 l/100 km in the urban cycle.

In 2020 Note e-Power underwent restyling and received an updated battery with increased capacity, which improved the acceleration dynamics. However, the system also has disadvantages:

  • 🔋 Limited battery life: after 150,000 km Battery modules may need to be replaced (cost from 200 000 ₽).
  • ⚡ Sensitivity to cold: In cold weather, the electric range is reduced by 20–30%.
  • 🛠️ Difficulty of repair: not all services undertake e-Power maintenance due to a shortage of spare parts.

How to check the status of the e-Power battery?

During a test drive, pay attention to the smooth acceleration and absence of jerks - this may indicate battery wear. Also request data from the diagnostic scanner: cell voltage should be in the range of 3.7–4.1 V. A spread of more than 0.2 V between modules is a cause for concern.

In Russia Note e-Power was not officially sold, but many examples are imported from Japan as “gray” cars. When purchasing such cars, it is important to check the service history and the availability of a warranty for the hybrid system - without it, repairs can cost a lot of money.

Comparison with competitors: who is better?

Main rivals Nissan Note on the market - Toyota Yaris, Honda Jazz And Kia Rio X-Line. To understand what to choose, let’s compare the key parameters:

  • 🚗 Interior space: Note wins against Yaris in terms of ceiling height and trunk volume, but loses Jazz in the flexibility of seat transformation (Honda’s “magic” rear seats fold into 18 configurations).
  • 💰 Cost of ownership: Rio X-Line cheaper to maintain, but Note with diesel 1.5 dCi more economical on the highway.
  • 🔧 Reliability: Toyota traditionally leads in resource, but Note E11 with a manual transmission it is not far behind.

If the priority is practicality and non-standard design, Note will be a good choice. For those who value reliability and resale, it is better to take a closer look at Yaris or Jazz.

Mileage and service history (especially for diesels and CVTs)|

Suspension condition (knocks in struts, play in ball joints)|

Operation of electronics (sensor, climate control, sensors) |

Corrosion of sills and arches (a typical problem for E11)|

Cold test drive (checking startup, gearbox operation) -->

Tuning and modifications: what can be improved?

Nissan Note does not apply to “tuning” cars, but owners often modify it to suit their needs. Popular destinations:

  1. Appearance: installation of body kits from Nismo (Nissan sports division), headlight tinting, vinyl decals.
  2. Suspension: replacing springs with stiffer ones (for example, from H&R) to improve handling.
  3. Engine: chip tuning for gasoline engines (up to 15–20 hp), but for diesel engines this is fraught with a reduction in service life.
  4. Salon: replacing the standard radio with Android Auto-compatible, installation of heated seats.
⚠️ Attention: When tuning the variator (for example, reflashing the control unit), the risk of overheating increases by 2–3 times. If you plan to increase power, install an additional gearbox radiator at the same time.

For Note e-Power modifications are limited - tampering with the hybrid system will void the warranty and may lead to errors in the operation of the electronics. The maximum that can be done is to update the firmware of the multimedia system or install LED headlights.

Prices and configurations: what does the market offer?

On the secondary market in Russia (2026) prices for Nissan Note vary depending on generation and condition:

  • 💲 E11 (2004–2013): from 250 000 ₽ (basic version with mileage 150,000+ km) to 500 000 ₽ (diesel included) Tekna).
  • 💲 E12 (2013–2020): from 600 000 ₽ (gasoline, manual) up to 1 200 000 ₽ (variator, mileage up to 80,000 km).
  • 💲 e-Power (import): from 1 500 000 ₽ (with mileage 50,000–100,000 km).

The most popular configurations:

  • Acenta — optimal balance of price and equipment (air conditioning, electric mirrors, airbags).
  • Tekna — top version with leather interior, climate control and parking assistance system.
  • e-Power S — a hybrid in a minimum configuration (rarely found in Russia).

💡

Upon purchase Note E12 with a variator, ask the seller for receipts for changing the gearbox oil. If you don't have them, be prepared to spend 20 000–30 000 ₽ for this procedure immediately after purchase.

Typical problems and how to avoid them

Every generation Note has its own “diseases” that you should know about in advance:

Generation Problem How to prevent
E11 Corrosion of thresholds and arches Anticorrosive treatment every 2 years, checking drainage holes
E11 Crankshaft oil seal leak Mileage replacement 100,000 km along with timing belt
E12 CVT overheating Oil change every 40,000 km, installation of an additional radiator
e-Power Battery degradation Avoid deep discharge, regular diagnostics

For Note E11 It is critical to monitor the condition of the suspension - worn stabilizer struts and bushings lead to play and knocking. B E12 Tire pressure sensor (tire pressure sensor) often fails TPMS), and in hybrid versions - a starter-generator relay.

💡

Regular Maintenance is the Key to Longevity Nissan Note. Pay special attention to the oil in the variator (if any) and the condition of the battery in hybrid versions.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions

Can you tow a trailer with a Nissan Note?

Officially Note not intended for towing, but it is technically possible to hook up a trailer weighing up to 600 kg (for E12 with petrol engine). For diesel versions the limit is higher - up to 900 kg. However, this increases the load on the variator, which can lead to overheating. If you plan to regularly haul a trailer, it is better to choose a model with a manual transmission.

Which engine is more reliable: 1.5 dCi or 1.6 petrol?

Diesel 1.5 dCi more economical and has a longer resource (up to 300,000 km with proper maintenance), but is sensitive to fuel quality and requires regular oil changes (every 10,000 km). Petrol 1.6 easier to repair and cheaper to maintain, but consumes more fuel (about 7 l/100 km in the city against 4.5 l/100 km for diesel).

Is the Nissan Note e-Power worth buying in 2026?

The hybrid version is suitable for those who value efficiency and drive mostly around the city. However, keep in mind:

  • High cost of spare parts and maintenance (a battery will cost 200 000+ ₽).
  • A limited network of services ready to work with e-Power.
  • Risk of problems with registration (if the car was imported unofficially).

Alternative - Toyota Yaris Hybrid, which is officially sold in Russia and has a more developed service infrastructure.

What kind of oil to pour into the Nissan Note E12 variator?

The manufacturer recommends the original liquid Nissan CVT Fluid NS-3 (article KE909-99932). Analogs - Mobil CVT Fluid or Idemitsu CVTF. Important: Can't use regular ATF oil - this will lead to gearbox failure. Replacement interval - every 60,000 km (or 40,000 km under severe operating conditions).

Where is the body number on a Nissan Note?

The VIN number is stamped in three places:

  1. On the plate under the windshield (on the left, near the pillar).
  2. On the nameplate in the driver's door opening.
  3. On the front cross member under the hood (you need to remove the protection).

To check your vehicle history via traffic police or CarVertical The number on the sign under the glass is enough.