Nissan's Note mixes supermini and MPV

Introduction

Nissan mixes small hatch with MPV in one compact package to offer the best of both worlds.

What are its rivals?

Every mainstream manufacturer has a small hatchback vying for your hard earned, but few, such as Ford's Fusion, combine the space, practicality and value of the Note to compete on a like for like basis. Skoda's Fabia estate is certainly worthy of consideration and it's worth bearing in mind that premium versions of the Note command prices that encroach on the next sector up where the likes of the excellent Kia cee'd and Hyundai i30 begin to come into consideration.

How does it drive?

Much as one would expect. Seated quite high for a small car, the large glasshouse offers excellent all-round visibility. Driving controls are well placed and light to use with all the switchgear well sited. The test car we drove was virtually new, which may go some way to explain why its 1.6 litre four-cylinder petrol engine felt a little bit tight and short gearing made it a little busy on the motorway.

Ride quality is good and, putting the buzzy engine aside, motorway manners are more than acceptable. Around town the Note excels with sprightly performance and manoeuvrability making life easy. On the open road it entertains with keen responses and decent handling.

What's impressive?

Nissan's literature makes a big play of the practicality of the Note and justifiably so. From the large chilled compartment to the double layered boot, via the sliding rear bench seat, designers have thought long and hard about how to squeeze the most room into the Note's finite, but generous, internal proportions.

Externally the Note stands out from the crowd with its individual looks and a vibrant range of colours. A sensible range of options ensures you can tailor the Note's specifications to your needs. It's what marketing types refer to as a lifestyle model; we just call it practical and useful.

What's not?

Our test car's petrol engine was harsh and vocal. The diesel option out punches and outperforms it whilst offering better manners and much improved economy. Inside some of the materials aren't as good as they could be. All in all, there's not much to fault.

Should I buy one?

If you're in the market for a small practical car then the Note should definitely be on your short list and the number on the roads reflects its popularity. We'd pick the diesel over the petrol versions but other than that you can't go far wrong with the little Nissan.

Dave Jenkins

Specs