What's the news?

Nissan has now announced the arrival of its all-new Note model that is set to go on sale in the autumn. A brand new design on the outside paves the way for technology never before seen in this segment on the inside.

Exterior

The new Note is a lot more stylish than the model it replaces. The new grille seems to carve its way into the new headlamp clusters and its wing mirrors now incorporate indicator repeaters. Its window line closely resembles the outgoing model's, although there is now a subtle styling crease on the front and rear doors. The back end features new angular light clusters, as well as a redesigned boot lid, bumper and roof spoiler.

Interior

The Note's interior has also undergone major styling changes. The steering wheel and instrument panel have both been refreshed, as have the dials that now monitor and rate drivers on eco-friendly driving in real-time. A 5.8-inch infotainment screen adorns the dashboard too, incorporating USB and aux-in connectivity, as well as Google's 'Send to Car' system.

The Note is also claimed to have class-leading rear cabin space, with knee-room figures beating vehicles in the luxury saloon D-segment according to Nissan.

Mechanicals

Among the engines on offer in the new Note two particular units stand out. The supercharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder DIG-S engine is one, offering 98hp and 147Nm of torque while returning an impressive 65.7mpg and 99g/km of CO₂. The other is the venerable 1.5-litre dCi diesel unit, returning 78.4mpg and emitting just 95g/km of CO₂. Stop-start is fitted to all models as standard.

While the engines are good, it's the safety technology that impresses most. The Note debuts Nissan's Safety Shield Pack, which comprises of a Blind Spot Warning, Lane Departure Warning and Moving Object Detection. This is all brought together with the Note's Around View Monitor (AVM) - a system that makes its debut in the B-segment. Here, a series of cameras give the driver a bird's-eye view of the car to make parking much simpler. Nissan has also created a unique 'wash and blow dry' system to make sure the cameras are always free from debris.

Anything else?

When the Note hits the market in the autumn, it will join the all-new Micra that is set to go on sale in the summer. The Micra has also undergone many styling changes, as well as receiving an upgraded interior. Nissan's B-segment offerings also extend to a new Juke 1.5-litre dCi, which is on sale now. The new engine features a 12.5 per cent improvement in economy figures while producing just 109g/km of CO₂.

James Giddings - 26 Jun 2013