Nissan Note 1.2 DIG-S Review: Noted with thanks...

What we like:

Eager acceleration

good brakes

smooth CVT

very spacious cabin.

What we dislike:

Engine drone above 4

000 rpm

standard tyres lack grip

cabin sound insulation could be better

rather large turning radius for a compact mini.

Driven in Eco mode, the Note feels relaxed and uneventful as it skips along in traffic. Throttle response may not be quick and the CVT feels as though it’s on vacation, but what’s important here is how smooth it is in this mode. In fact, ‘super-duper smooth’ best describe it.

There’s nothing wrong per se with the Note’s handling and steering characteristics, but it’s just not as taut as the Jazz or Polo.

The steering is still sharp, while the handling remains safe and undramatic. Body-roll is kept under control, yet the ride is refined and compliant. Unfortunately, the standard Continental tyres does nothing to improve the Note’s handling – on top of the unwelcome noise, it reaches it’s limit way too early, doesn’t grip in corners and somewhat, just somewhat, seem to insult the Note.

Admittedly, the Note may not win any beauty contests, but it’s still a well built, well equipped compact mini.

And according to local Nissan dealer, besides the seven different available colours, you can pick the interior trims in three different ones – a Mini marketing tool.

Whether it will sell here in this current COE climate remains to be seen, but the Note’s introduction here is definitely one step at reviving this otherwise dead segment.

Oh and by the way those, err, unsightly stickers by the sides don't come standard. In case you're wondering.

Credits: Story and photos by Azfar Hashim