Nissan Note 1.5 dCi 90 CV, road test (Performance, handling and consumption)

Nissan has changed the way the new Note is understood. If we remember, the previous version was sold in the C segment, with characteristics that brought it closer to a compact MPV than to a hatchback, although it has not lost its virtues, quite the contrary, but now in the B segment.

The new Nissan Note reaches the market with all the qualities of the previous generation: interior space, comfort as one of its attributes, quality, reliability, among others; but at the same time it noticeably improves in dynamics, equipment, safety and efficiency. Let’s take a look.

1.5 dCi 90 CV engine, fantastic balance

It is not a new powertrain; in fact it has been tested and proven. It has been fitted to the Nissan Note thanks to the Renault-Nissan alliance, but this engine has already been used in several models of the alliance, cars that have been quite successful in the market. Now it is the Note’s turn.

This diesel unit is a four-cylinder with 1,461 cc of capacity. It delivers 90 CV from 4,000 rpm and also features a generous peak torque of 200 Nm, available from 1,750 rpm, a configuration that promises good thrust and correct in-gear recoveries.

This engine is paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 11.9 seconds, and the Note’s top speed is 179 km/h, figures that are more than adequate for a vehicle of its characteristics.

This combination returns an average (homologated) consumption of 3.6 litres per 100 km. Urban consumption is 4.2 l/100 km, while extra-urban consumption is 3.2 litres per 100 km. CO2 emissions are 92 grams per kilometre.

Handling, efficient in every way

The driving position of the new Nissan Note is comfortable, even though the steering wheel has no reach adjustment. However, it is very easy to find the optimal driving position. We press the clutch and press the ignition button.

The 1.5 dCi unit is slightly noisy. First gear and we set off; we immediately notice the short ratios of the first gears, which means we gain pulling power very quickly. The torque available from such low revs helps a lot. Without doubt, the acceleration is good.

The clutch travel is familiar, with a pedal positioned quite far forward and engagement closer to the end of its travel. This takes some speed out of gear changes, but it is a matter of getting used to it. In town driving we also noticed that the brakes are adequate, but not overly effective.

On the first gear changes we confirmed something we had noticed during the international presentation: the suspension is somewhat firm but correct.

On interurban roads we have a longer ratio for 4th and 5th gears, so we cruise comfortably without affecting consumption too much. Above 90 km/h we notice some aerodynamic noise coming from the sides, specifically the mirrors, which is a little bothersome.

We join the motorway and, despite a slightly firm suspension setting, the ride comfort is not affected in this respect. The car conveys comfort and confidence even at high speeds. So far, a balanced handling.

The engine responds superbly and is quite progressive. The mid-range, between 2,000 and 3,500 rpm, could be described as the ‘sweet spot’ of this engine, offering correct recoveries, so on the motorway we can overtake or tackle hills with confidence, with or without passengers.

When we tackle winding roads or twistier routes, the Note holds its own. We feel the front axle grip well, and we can trust it enough to push it a little through corners, always within its limits and within the law. The Note handles corners well.

At this point, the Note’s dynamism is slightly held back by the braking and the short first gears, which at times force us to shift down early or to change up very lazily. However, we are talking about a ‘less natural’ context for the Note, whose vocation is more urban.

Between the suspension and the steering, we get enough information about what is happening under the vehicle. The gear lever travel offers ‘normal’ precision, while the climate controls, cruise control, audio system and navigation are within easy reach.

In any case, the impressions left by the Nissan Note 1.5 dCi 90 after the test are satisfactory. Overall it is a car that responds well mechanically and dynamically, with good acceleration and recoveries, and at the same time is comfortable for ‘cruising’ journeys.

Consumption, another point in favour of the Nissan Note

Our road test of the Nissan Note 1.5 dCi 90 covered about 370 kilometres of normal driving, without seeking low consumption but without going flat out either. The average speed was 52 km/h and the trip computer showed an average consumption of 4.3 l/100 km, a very interesting figure.

We tried ECO mode, which can be activated by a button located on the centre tunnel just behind the gear lever. This mode adjusts the throttle response and the dashboard indicators with guidance to optimise acceleration-deceleration cycles. However, we did not find it comfortable.

This consumption figure after the test of the 90-horsepower Note dCi is very close to the 3.6 litres that Nissan homologates. We understand that the interurban use in the daily life of the potential Note user will help them achieve figures as good as this one. A test with 4 passengers and luggage remains pending.

Photos | Leo Montiel