All-new 2014 Nissan Note

February 18, 2013

Nissan has taken the wraps of its new Note, which will debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show.

Described by Nissan as ‘a true B-segment contender’, the 2014 Note is set to be a more direct rival to the likes of the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa than the current model.

2014 Nissan Note. Scroll down for more images.

The design was previewed by last year’s Invitation concept and, wisely, only a few changes have been made in the transition to production model. Combining a long wheelbase with short overhangs, the five-door body is claimed to offer class-leading aerodynamics. For Europe, the Note gets a unique front end compared to the North American and Japanese versions.

According to Atsushi Maeda, the Note’s Chief Designer: “The design concept of this car is summarised by two phrases: ‘energetic clarity’ and ‘spacious comfort’. We have designed a completely new hatchback which is dynamic, energetic and sporty while also managing to keep the previous generation Note’s practicality and versatility.”

Buyers will have a choice of two 1.2 litre, three-cylinder petrol engines with outputs of either 79 bhp (59 kW / 80 PS) or 97 bhp (72 kW / 98 PS) in supercharged form.

Alternatively, there’s also going to be a 1.5 litre four-cylinder diesel that develops 88 bhp (66 kW / 90 PS). It achieves a very creditable 78.5 mpg (3.6 l/100km) on the combined cycle while emitting 95 g/km of carbon dioxide.

Indeed, maximising fuel economy seems to have been a primary goal for the entire range, as a start / stop system and a pair of dashboard-mounted ‘eco meters’ will be standard fitment on all variants.

Nissan is introducing its ‘Safety Shield’ on the Note, which consists of blind spot warning, lane departure warning and moving object detection systems. All three devices make use of a rear-mounted wide-view camera.

Also available will be the 360° Around View Monitor that’s already offered on the Qashqai. Using a collection of four cameras, it gives a ‘helicopter’ view of the car and is designed to make parking manoeuvres easier.

The Sunderland-built 2014 Note is going to be available in Visia, Acenta or Tekna trim grades. Deliveries are due to commence this autumn and prices will be announced closer to its launch.