Nissan Note 2013: 3 Engine Options, Space & Low Running Costs

The 2013 Nissan Note redefined expectations in the supermini segment by merging the compactness of a city hatchback with the roominess of a mini-MPV. Built in Britain, this second-generation model targeted families and urban commuters seeking value, space, and efficiency without compromising on modern features. With options like a supercharged three-cylinder petrol engine and innovative safety systems, it positioned itself as a strong contender against rivals such as the Honda Jazz and Citroën C3 Picasso.

Design and Exterior Appeal

Externally, the Note adopted a taller, more upright stance compared to traditional superminis, giving it a van-like profile that hinted at its generous interior capacity. The styling was clean and functional, with a bold front grille and layered headlights that added a touch of aggression. While not the most striking in its class, the design prioritized aerodynamics and practicality, contributing to impressive fuel economy figures.

Available in various trims like the base XE and higher SV or N-TEC+ models, the Note came with alloy wheels, body-colored handles, and optional roof rails for enhanced utility. Its dimensions—around 4.1 meters long—made it easy to park in tight city spots while offering a wheelbase that supported superior rear passenger space.

Interior Comfort and Space Mastery

Step inside, and the Note’s true strengths shine through its clever packaging. The cabin accommodated tall drivers and passengers with ease, providing exceptional legroom—up to 639mm in the rear when the sliding bench was adjusted fully back. This flexibility allowed buyers to prioritize either passenger comfort or boot space, a rare feature in this class.

The seats were supportive yet soft, with the rear bench sliding 160mm fore and aft for customizable arrangements. Even with the seat forward, two adults over 5ft 10in could sit comfortably. Hidden cupholders in the center armrest added thoughtful touches, while higher trims featured a logical dashboard layout dominated by a 5.8-inch NissanConnect touchscreen for navigation, Bluetooth, and eco-driving feedback.

• Front seating: Adjustable, with good visibility and ergonomic controls.
• Rear seating: Sliding bench for versatility; ample headroom for all.
• Storage solutions: Deep door pockets, overhead bins, and a versatile boot starting at 325 liters, expandable to over 1,300 liters with seats folded.

Materials felt well-assembled, though some hard plastics in lower areas drew criticism for feeling less premium than rivals. Overall, the interior scored high on practicality, fitting pushchairs, bikes, or family luggage with ease.

Engine Options and Performance

Powertrain choices catered to efficiency-focused buyers. The entry-level 1.2-liter three-cylinder petrol unit delivered 80hp, achieving 0-62mph in about 14 seconds. Despite modest acceleration, its short-throw five-speed manual gearbox made it peppy in urban settings, especially when lightly loaded.

For more urge, the supercharged 1.2-liter DIG-S variant boosted output to 98bhp and 142Nm, enabling smoother overtakes and claimed economy of up to 65.7mpg. Diesel fans opted for the 1.5 dCi, offering strong low-end torque for highway cruising. All engines paired with a CVT automatic option in some markets for relaxed driving.

Refinement was a highlight: the three-cylinder’s rasp was muted at speed, with low wind and tire noise creating a calm cabin.

Handling, Ride, and Driving Dynamics

The Note prioritized comfort over sportiness, with a firm yet compliant suspension that ironed out urban potholes effectively. Its taller ride height delivered a planted feel on motorways, though steering lacked sharpness, feeling vague during enthusiastic cornering.

In city traffic, it excelled—light controls, a tight turning circle, and a serene atmosphere encouraged relaxed driving. On twisty roads, body roll was evident, but stability control and electronic aids kept it composed. Ride quality shone post-bump, with minimal rebound. Ratings often pegged handling at 6/10, emphasizing ease over excitement.

Safety Innovations and Tech Features

Nissan pioneered with the Safety Shield package, standard on many trims. This included intelligent cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking—features rare in superminis at the time. Six airbags, stability control, and tire pressure monitors rounded out the basics.

Higher specs added Bluetooth, rear parking sensors, and the NissanConnect system for traffic updates, fuel prices, and Google integration. No CD player on base models signaled a shift to digital audio via aux or USB.

Practicality for Everyday Family Use

Boot capacity beat class averages at 325 liters (seats up), swallowing suitcases or strollers effortlessly. Folded seats created a flat load floor for bulky items like bikes. Fuel tanks supported long ranges, with economy aiding low running costs—insurance groups were budget-friendly (10-15).

Equipment was generous: base models had cruise, electric windows, and AC upgrades in mid-trims. It undercut some rivals in price while matching or exceeding space.

Rivals Comparison

Versus the Honda Jazz, the Note offered similar space but added sliding seats and superior safety tech at a lower cost. The Ford B-Max impressed with doorless design, but lacked the Note’s rear legroom. Citroën C3 Picasso matched versatility, though Nissan’s engines edged in efficiency.

Reliability, Ownership Costs, and Used Market

Built to last, the Note earned solid reliability scores, with low fault rates in surveys. Affordable parts and Nissan servicing kept costs down. Used examples from 2013-2017 hold value well, often under £5,000 today with 60k+ miles.

Expect 50-60mpg real-world, CO2 under 100g/km for tax perks. It’s a low-risk buy for budget-conscious families.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros: Vast interior space, excellent economy, innovative safety, easy to drive, value-packed.
• Cons: Bland handling, dated plastics in places, modest performance when loaded.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2013 Nissan Note reliable?

Yes, it scores highly in owner surveys for dependability, with robust engines and few major issues.

How fuel-efficient is it?

Expect 55-65mpg combined, best with gentle driving on the supercharged petrol.

What’s the boot space like?

325 liters standard, expanding hugely—perfect for family gear.

Does it have modern safety tech?

Absolutely, Safety Shield includes auto braking and lane assist, ahead of many peers.

Is it good for tall passengers?

Exceptional rear legroom, even better than some luxury cars.

Final Thoughts on the Nissan Note 2013

The 2013 Note remains a compelling used buy for those valuing space, tech, and economy over thrills. Its MPV-supermini hybrid formula delivers everyday usability that endures.