We had our first look at the 2009 Nissan Note at the
Paris Motor Show in September. Along with updating the styling, interior trim and a new navigation and entertainment system, the improvements will be accompanied by a price reduction when the Note goes on sale in January.
The new Note comes in three trim levels: Visia, Acenta and Tekna. Changes to the colour and design of the upholstery give each grade its own feel. The Visia has electric front windows, four airbags and a tilt-adjustable steering wheel. Upgrade to Acenta specification and rear electric windows, curtain airbags and a leather covered steering wheel are added. The top model also puts part-leather trim on the seats a sports steering wheel and Nissan's new Connect navigation and entertainment system.
The Note is the first model to feature the Nissan Connect system; a touch screen system combining navigation, CD, Radio and iPod connectivity. It can connect to compatible audio devices by Bluetooth, eliminating the need for cables. The navigation capability is enhanced by accelerometers that identify speed and direction of travel. The system is claimed to adapt quickly to a missed turning and calculate a new route.
Other highlights of the new model include a reshaped bonnet, shiny black grille and darker tail lamps designed for a "more upmarket" look. The Acenta gets new 15-inch alloy wheels and the Tekna updated 16-inch wheels.
The engine line-up continues unchanged: the 1.6-litre petrol unit is available with both manual and automatic transmissions while 1.4-litre petrol and 1.5 dCi diesel units are also available. Both the smaller petrol and dCi units have carbon dioxide emissions of less than 140g/km, which means they wear "Pure Drive" badges to indicate their environmentally friendly status.
Prices for the 2009 models have been reduced. The entry-level 1.4-litre Visia is £450 less at £9,795 on-the-road. Air-conditioning is a £500 option on the base model but standard on the Acenta, which costs £11,345 with the 1.6-litre petrol motor. The 1.4-litre petrol engine is not offered on the Tekna but with petrol power the top model costs £13,695. The new Nissan Notes will go on sale from 9th January 2009.
John Lambert - 16 Dec 2008