Nissan claims to have somewhat of a new car onslaught coming in the next eighteen months that sees the introduction of six new mainstream models. An updated Micra was the first of these and next up is an all-new Note - the middle car in a trio of Nissans all competing in the popular B-segment.
Exterior
It may carry a similar overall shape to the previous generation, but this new Note is a far bolder design and brings the car up to date. One of the most noticeable aspects of the design is the front end, which is more in line with some of the other cars in the range. Aerodynamics have clearly played a role in shaping the look of the car. The windscreen wipers for instance fold almost entirely below the bonnet while integrated jet washers mean that the bonnet is now as smooth as possible.
The side profile features some contour work that Nissan's designers claim reflects the trajectory of a squash ball while the rear contains three-dimensional lights similar to those seen on the highly successful Juke.
Interior
A simplified design greets those inside and for customers who choose to opt for the Safety Shield system, a large colour screen dominates the centre console. Passenger room has been improved thanks to front seats that are 9mm lower and rear seats that are 23mm higher. That, combined with rear doors that open to almost 90 degrees, makes the task of strapping in smaller children that bit easier. Boot space is an adequate 295 litres, which can be expanded to 325 litres when using the lower floor section, while the total capacity can be 2,012 litres with the rear seats folded down.
Mechanicals
Nissan is bringing some new engines to the Note. The first of which is a 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 80hp. The second - and likely to be the more popular petrol engine - is the 1.2-litre supercharged DIG-S 95hp unit, which, despite having 142Nm of torque on tap falls into tax band A2 (€180) thanks to emissions of just 99 grams per kilometre. Those seeking a diesel option can go for the 1.5-litre dCi engine. This 220Nm, 90hp unit has even lower emissions at just 95 grams per kilometre and is expected to be a popular choice.
Anything else?
One of the standout features of the new Note is the optional Safety Shield system. Nissan claims to be the first to offer such technology in this class of vehicle. It comprises of a number of safety systems working in unison. It links a Blind Spot Warning Lane Departure Warning and Moving Object Detection to form, in effect, a 360-degree monitored area around the car thanks to an array of sensors and self-cleaning exterior cameras.
The new Nissan Note will be arriving at dealers nationwide from October this year at a starting price of less than €16,000.
Read our first drive of the new Nissan Note here.