CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 28.9%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 400
Average Price: Around £4,700

Nissan Note (2013-2017) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
More spacious and practical than a conventional supermini	Some safety kit was reserved for upper trim levels
Economical to run	Not as reliable as you'd expect
Comfortable ride and handling	A Ford B-Max is more fun to drive

Quick Summary

The Nissan Note (2013-2017) is a compact MPV that blurs the line between a supermini and a people carrier. Built in Sunderland, this second-generation Note offers a spacious interior with clever design features, including a sliding rear bench that adjusts legroom and boot space by 150mm. The rear doors open to almost 90 degrees, making it easy for passengers to enter and exit. With up to eight trim levels available, from Visia to Tekna, buyers can find a wide range of equipment options, including the innovative NissanConnect touchscreen infotainment system on higher trims.

The Note excels in practicality and running costs, with a simple engine range comprising a 1.2-litre petrol (available naturally aspirated or supercharged DIG-S) and a 1.5 dCi diesel. All variants deliver impressive fuel economy, with official figures ranging from 60.1mpg to 78.5mpg, and low CO2 emissions mean tax costs are minimal. Service intervals are straightforward at 12 months or 12,500 miles, with fixed-price servicing available through Nissan dealers. However, the Note's high driving position lacks reach adjustment on the steering wheel, and it doesn't handle quite as dynamically as rivals like the Ford Fiesta.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a spacious, practical car with economical running costs, families needing extra interior room, and those prioritising comfort over driving dynamics.

Not ideal for: Drivers wanting premium reliability, those seeking engaging handling, or buyers who prefer a more conventional supermini or SUV design.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Note if: You're seeking a spacious, practical car with economical running costs, need extra interior room for families, or prioritise comfort and practicality over driving dynamics.

Consider alternatives if: You require premium reliability, want engaging handling, or prefer a more conventional supermini or SUV design.

Competitive Position: The Nissan Note (2013-2017) occupies a unique position in the used car market as an affordable compact MPV. Whilst it offers excellent practicality and low running costs, it faces stiff competition from the Ford B-Max, which delivers superior driving dynamics and a higher expert rating, and the Honda Jazz, which matches its user appeal. The Peugeot 3008 offers a more modern SUV alternative with higher ratings. However, the Note remains an excellent value proposition for budget-conscious buyers who prioritise space and economy over performance, making it a sensible choice for families and commuters seeking a practical, economical vehicle.

Read our full Nissan Note Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from May 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.