Nissan Note
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a practical small car that maximizes space without breaking the bank? The Nissan Note could be the perfect solution for your needs. This clever compact hatchback takes a different approach to small car design, prioritizing interior space and practicality over sporty styling. It’s the ideal choice for families who need the convenience of a small car for parking and city driving, but don’t want to compromise on passenger comfort or boot space.

The Note stands out in a crowded market by offering something genuinely different. While rivals like the Ford Fiesta focus on style and driving dynamics, the Note puts practicality first. Its tall, upright design might not win beauty contests, but it creates an incredibly spacious cabin that feels more like a mini MPV than a traditional supermini. The clever use of space means you get excellent headroom, comfortable seating for four adults, and a surprisingly large boot.

What makes the Note particularly appealing is its value proposition. You get a lot of car for your money, with generous equipment levels and running costs that won’t stretch your budget. The engines are economical, insurance groups are reasonable, and the build quality is solid. It’s not the most exciting car to drive, but it excels at making everyday journeys comfortable and stress free. For drivers who prioritise practicality and value over image, the Note makes perfect sense.

What's the Nissan Note Like to Drive?

The Nissan Note prioritises efficiency and ease of driving over outright performance. The petrol engine lineup includes a 1.2 liter naturally aspirated unit producing around 80 horsepower, which feels adequate for town driving but can struggle on motorways when fully loaded. There’s also a more powerful supercharged 1.2 liter engine with 98 horsepower that provides better acceleration and overtaking ability. The CVT automatic transmission, available on some models, offers smooth operation but can feel sluggish when you need quick acceleration.

Where the Note excels is in its driving comfort and ease of use. The light steering makes parking effortless, while the high driving position gives you excellent visibility in traffic. The suspension is tuned for comfort rather than sporty handling, which means it soaks up bumps and potholes well. Around town, the Note feels nimble and easy to maneuver despite its tall hatchback proportions. It’s not a car that will excite keen drivers, but it delivers exactly what most owners want: reliable, comfortable, and economical transportation.

Inside the Nissan Note: Comfort & Features

Step inside the Note and you’ll immediately notice how spacious it feels. The cabin is genuinely impressive for a car of this size, with excellent headroom front and rear thanks to the tall roofline. The dashboard design is straightforward and functional, with clearly marked controls and a user friendly layout. Materials quality is decent for the price point, with hard wearing fabrics and plastics that feel durable rather than premium. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with good adjustment range to help you find the perfect driving position.

The Note’s party trick is its rear seat space. Adult passengers can sit comfortably in the back without feeling cramped, which is unusual in this class. The large windows and airy feel make the cabin feel bigger than it actually is. Standard equipment includes essentials like air conditioning, electric windows, and a decent stereo system. Higher spec models add touchscreen infotainment with smartphone connectivity, cruise control, and automatic headlights. Road noise is well controlled at city speeds, though wind noise becomes more noticeable on the motorway.

The Nissan Note succeeds brilliantly at what it sets out to do: provide maximum practicality in a compact, affordable package. Its spacious interior puts many larger cars to shame, while the excellent fuel economy and low running costs make it easy to live with day to day. The comfortable ride quality and user friendly controls add to its appeal for drivers who want simplicity and reliability above all else.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Nissan Note?

The Nissan Note excels when it comes to running costs, making it an excellent choice for budget conscious drivers. Fuel economy is a real strength, with the efficient petrol engines delivering real world figures in the low to mid 50s MPG. This means fewer trips to the petrol station and lower monthly fuel bills. Insurance groups are reasonable, typically falling in groups 6 to 12, which helps keep premiums affordable for drivers of all ages and experience levels.

Purchase prices for used Notes are competitive, offering excellent value compared to more fashionable rivals. The car holds its value reasonably well, though depreciation is fairly typical for the class. Maintenance costs are generally low thanks to Nissan’s reputation for reliability and the availability of affordable parts. The Note benefits from Nissan’s extensive dealer network, making servicing convenient. For families looking for car finance options, the Note’s strong residual values and low running costs make monthly payments more manageable than many competitors.

Is the Nissan Note Practical for Everyday Use?

The Nissan Note’s greatest strength is its outstanding practicality. The 295 liter boot is a decent size for the class and features a low loading lip that makes it easy to lift heavy items in and out. The rear seats fold flat to create a useful loading area for larger items like furniture or sports equipment. Inside the cabin, there are plenty of storage spaces for everyday items including large door pockets, cup holders, and a useful glovebox.

Where the Note really impresses is passenger space. The rear seats offer genuine comfort for two adults, with enough legroom and headroom for longer journeys. This makes it perfect for small families or anyone who regularly carries passengers. The high seating position gives all occupants a good view out, which children particularly appreciate. Compared to other used Nissan cars, the Note maximizes interior space more effectively than almost any other model in the range, making it ideal for urban families who need space but can’t accommodate a larger vehicle.

The Nissan Note stands out in the competitive small car market by prioritizing practicality and value above everything else. Its spacious interior, excellent fuel economy, and affordable running costs make it an outstanding choice for families and practical minded drivers. While it may not offer the sportiest driving experience or the most stylish looks, it delivers exactly what many people actually need from a car: reliable, comfortable, and economical transport.

You choose the Note because it makes sense rather than because it excites you. The generous interior space, straightforward controls, and strong value proposition make everyday driving easier and more comfortable. It’s perfectly suited for urban life while remaining capable on longer journeys. For drivers seeking a small car that maximizes space and minimizes costs, particularly those looking at cars under £10,000, the Note represents outstanding value.