Nissan Note Restyling: Full review of changes, engines and trim levels

In the world of compact city hatchbacks Nissan Note occupies a special place due to its practicality and efficiency. The restyled version of the car, introduced after 2012, was a response to market demands requiring more modern design and improved safety technologies. Many buyers are wondering whether the changes really affected only the appearance or whether the engineers also reworked the technical stuffing.

Restyling Nissan Note the second generation (E12) introduced a number of significant innovations to the model that made it more competitive. The appearance has become more aggressive, the interior has become more spacious, and the range of engines has become more efficient. In this article, we'll go into detail about every aspect of a refurbished car so you can make an informed decision when buying a used or new car.

Evolution of design: what has changed outside

The main visual difference of the restyling was the redesign of the front part of the body. The designers changed the shape of the radiator grille, making it larger and more aggressive, which corresponds to the V-motion corporate style. The bumpers received new air intakes and integrated fog lights, which gave the car a more predatory look. Lighting technology has also undergone changes: headlights have become more elongated and complex in design.

The rear of the body received new lights, which now have more modern LED filling. The trunk lid has been slightly redesigned, improving aerodynamics and overall appearance. Side sills and moldings have become more expressive, visually making the lower part of the body heavier. It is important to note that the new wheel designs not only improve the appearance, but also slightly reduce drag.

• 🚗 New radiator grille with chrome trim
• 💡 Updated optics with LED elements in the rear lights
• 🎨 Expanded palette of body colors, including two-tone solutions

⚠️ Attention: When inspecting copies after restyling, pay special attention to the joints of body parts. Factory build quality could vary depending on the manufacturing plant (Japan or Russia), which affects the durability of the anti-corrosion coating.

If you are planning a purchase, be sure to check the condition of the paint on the arches and sills. Restyling was often accompanied by minor changes in paint application technology, but in our climate this is still critically important. Build quality and anti-corrosion protection — key factors when choosing a used car.

Technical part: engines and transmission

Under the hood of the restyled Nissan Note The most significant changes have been made to improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions. The main emphasis was placed on the modernization of naturally-aspirated petrol engines of the HR series. Engineers redesigned the gas distribution system and introduced new fuel injection control technologies. This made it possible to increase power while reducing fuel consumption.

The line of power units remained almost the same in volume, but significantly improved in performance. The base 1.2-liter engine received a variable valve timing system, which made it more flexible in the urban cycle. The more powerful 1.5-liter engine has also undergone extensive modifications, becoming quieter and more responsive to the gas pedal. A new battery with improved capacity has been introduced for the e-POWER hybrid version.

• 🔧 1.2 l engine (79-87 hp) with Xtronic CVT system
• ⚙️ 1.5 l (110 hp) engine with optional all-wheel drive
• 🔋 Hybrid e-POWER system with extended range

The transmission remains without alternative for most markets - this is a CVT Xtronic. During the restyling, the gearbox software was updated, making shifts smoother and less noticeable. However, it is worth remembering that variator resource still requires careful attention to oil changes. Ignoring routine maintenance can lead to costly repairs.

⚠️ Attention: The hybrid version of e-POWER has a unique operating scheme, where the wheels are driven exclusively by an electric motor, and the gasoline engine acts as a generator. This requires specific maintenance of the high voltage battery.

Interior and cabin ergonomics

The car's interior has undergone a major redesign aimed at improving comfort and ease of use. The center console has a new design with larger, more readable controls. The multimedia system has been updated: the screen has become larger and the interface has become more intuitive. Now in basic configurations a touch screen with support for smartphones is often found.

Finishing materials have become softer to the touch, and the amount of hard plastic has decreased. The seats received improved lateral support and a more comfortable geometry. The headroom and legroom for rear passengers remains at a high level, which is the calling card of the model. The driver's seat has become more ergonomic thanks to the new shape of the steering wheel and the location of the controls.

• 📱 Updated multimedia with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 🛋️ Soft inserts on door cards and dashboard
• 🔌 Increased number of USB ports for charging gadgets

The system deserves special attention smart access to the salon. A key card with engine start button became standard on many versions. This eliminates the need to search for keys in your bag or pockets. However, when purchasing a used car, check the functionality of the door sensors, as they can be expensive to replace.

Options and security options

Restyling has significantly expanded the list of available safety options. Now even in mid-range trim levels you can find a stabilization system ESP and assistance when starting uphill. Front airbags became standard, and side and curtain airbags appeared on top versions. A blind spot monitoring system has become available as an option, which is critical for maneuvering in dense city traffic.

Engineers also introduced a collision warning system with automatic braking. Front and rear parking sensors are now equipped with a 360-degree camera on higher trims. This allows the driver to see the entire area around the car on the multimedia screen. Driving assistants make operation safer and less tiring.

The table below shows a comparison of the main options in various trim levels of the restyled model:

Equipment	Climate control	Rear view camera	Cruise control	Start/Stop system
Comfort	No (air conditioning)	No	No	Yes
Comfort Plus	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Techno	Automatic	Yes + Sensors	Yes	Yes
Techna	Automatic	360 degrees	Yes	Yes

⚠️ Attention: The presence of the Start/Stop system depends not only on the configuration, but also on the engine type. Hybrid versions always have this system, while on gasoline engines it may not be available in basic versions.

Hybrid e-POWER technology

One of the most striking new features of the restyling was e-POWER technology. This is a unique hybrid system where the wheels are driven exclusively by an electric motor. The gasoline engine is not directly connected to the wheels, but works as a generator, generating electricity to power the motor and charge the battery. This provides the feeling of driving an electric car with an endless range.

The advantages of this design are obvious: instant torque, no jerking when changing gears and extremely low noise levels in the cabin. In the urban cycle, fuel consumption is minimal, since the engine is often switched off in standby mode. However, at high highway speeds, the system's efficiency may be reduced as the engine operates at full power to charge the battery.

• ⚡ Instant response to the gas pedal thanks to the electric motor
• 🔋 Increased battery capacity compared to previous versions
• 🌍 Environmental friendliness and reduction of emissions in urban mode

How does recuperation work in e-POWER?

When braking, the electric motor switches to generator mode, converting kinetic energy into electricity. This charges the battery and slows the car, saving brake pad life and reducing fuel consumption.

It is important to understand that specifics of service The hybrid version is different from the regular one. A high-voltage battery requires monitoring of temperature and cell condition. When purchasing a used hybrid, be sure to diagnose the battery, as replacing it can be comparable to the cost of the car.

Operation and Maintenance

Owners Nissan Note note the high reliability of the main components of the car. Engines of the HR series are considered resource-efficient, subject to timely oil changes. CVT Xtronic requires a more careful attitude: the oil in it needs to be changed every 40-50 thousand kilometers, even if the manufacturer claims that it is “maintenance-free”.

The car's suspension is adapted to our roads and is quite energy-intensive. Shock absorbers and stabilizer struts last a long time, but the silent blocks of the levers may require replacement after a mileage of about 100 thousand kilometers. The steering is rack and pinion, reliable and does not require frequent interventions. The brake system is also durable, especially if the car is used primarily in the city.

Follow this checklist to keep your car in top condition:

• 🛢️ Change engine oil every 7-10 thousand km
• ⚙️ Change the oil in the variator every 40-50 thousand km
• 🔧 Suspension diagnostics every 30 thousand km
• ❄️ Checking the cooling system before the season

The car body is well galvanized, but in conditions of reagents and salts it is necessary to monitor the condition of the sills and arches. Anti-corrosion treatment once every 2-3 years will significantly extend the life of body parts. It is also worth paying attention to the condition of the door seals, as their destruction can lead to moisture entering the interior and corrosion.

Comparison with competitors

In the compact hatchback market Nissan Note has worthy competitors such as Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit and Ford Fiesta. The main advantage of Nissan is its spacious interior and high level of comfort. Competitors often offer sportier handling, but fall short in ergonomics and trunk space.

Compared to Japanese classmates, Nissan Note offers richer equipment in basic trim levels. The multimedia system and comfortable seats make travel enjoyable. However, in matters of transmission reliability, Nissan's CVT is inferior to the classic automatic or robotic gearboxes of its competitors. This is an important factor when choosing a car.

If you need a city car with maximum practicality, Nissan Note would be an excellent choice. If the priority is dynamics and sportiness, it may be worth considering other options. Balance of price and quality remains the main trump card of this model.

⚠️ Attention: When comparing prices on the secondary market, consider the cost of ownership. Hybrid versions may be more expensive to repair, but cheaper to operate over 100 thousand kilometers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which engine is more reliable: 1.2 or 1.5 liters?

Both HR series engines are considered reliable. The 1.2 liter engine is more economical and less loaded, so theoretically it can last longer. However, the 1.5-liter engine has a greater power reserve and is better adapted to overloads. The choice depends on your preferences for dynamics and fuel consumption.

Is it necessary to warm up the Xtronic CVT in winter?

Yes, in winter it is recommended to warm up the car before driving. Although modern CVTs are less sensitive to low temperatures, warming up the oil ensures its correct viscosity and protection of the components. Running the engine at idle speed for 3-5 minutes is enough.

What is the real fuel consumption of the restyled version?

In the urban cycle, the consumption of a 1.2 liter gasoline engine is about 6.5-7.5 liters per 100 km. On the highway this figure drops to 5.0-5.5 liters. The hybrid version of e-POWER in the city can show consumption of about 4.0-4.5 liters, but on the highway it can rise to 6.0 liters due to the engine operating at high speeds.

Is it possible to install a Start/Stop system on a car without it?

Technically, installing a Start/Stop system is possible, but requires replacing the engine control unit, sensors and wiring. This is not economically feasible, since the cost of labor and spare parts may exceed the benefits from fuel savings. It is better to purchase a car that was originally equipped with this system.

How often do you need to change the timing belt on a 1.2 engine?

HR series engines use a timing chain, which is considered “eternal” if the oil change regulations are observed. However, it is recommended to check the condition of the chain every 100-150 thousand kilometers. If a characteristic noise appears, the tensioner or the chain itself must be replaced.