Nissan Note 1.5 dCi 103 Tekna

Nissan’s little city car has received a shot in the arm, with a new 102bhp version of the familiar 1.5 dCi engine. Ian Robertson grabs his shopping bags to test the new urban warrior

Those familiar with What Diesel will remember that I ran a Nissan Note as a long-term test car last year, and one of the things on my wish list was a more powerful engine and six-speed gearbox. Well Nissan have waved their magic wand, and my wish has now come true – enter the Note 1.5 dCi 103. The new more powerful engine sees an increase of 17bhp over its brother, together with an extra 29 lb ft of torque, and this shaves over 2 seconds off the 0-62mph figure, and increases the top speed by 10mph. The new six-speed manual gearbox is smooth and positive, and the more powerful engine equips the Note well. It feels considerably faster than the dCi 86, although sounds a little harsher and less refined. It handles well for such a tall car, with plenty of feedback from the well-weighted steering, although the low-speed ride can be on the firm side around town.

For the first time, the baby Nissan is equipped with a diesel particulate filter, aimed to cut down on noxious particles, although this may not be a good thing for all buyers, as Nissan warn that a diesel particulate filtered Note may not be suitable if journeys are predominantly urban or at low speed. Surely this defeats the object of footprint. With the Note predominately a car to be found around town, whether the extra power would get used to great advantage remains to be seen. The Note has been on sale since 2006, and it’s just about to receive a mid-life refresh, with subtle changes to the front and rear. It’ll reach Nissan showrooms in January 2009.

ON SALE: NOW RANGE STARTS AT: £11,945 for 1.5 dCi 86 Visia+

Drive Time

Pros

Well equipped, plenty of space, well thought out, sliding rear seat useful, smooth gearbox, feels quick

Cons

Pricey, meaning dCi 86 Acenta version may be a better bet, particulate filter unsuitable for town driving