CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 31.0%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 400
Average Price: Around £4,300

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 flexible seating arrangements, 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 at 78bhp or supercharged DIG-S at 97bhp) and a 1.5 dCi diesel at 89bhp. All engines 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 sharply as rivals like the Ford Fiesta.

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

Not ideal for: Drivers wanting premium handling characteristics, those requiring comprehensive safety equipment as standard, or buyers seeking maximum reliability in this segment.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

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

Consider alternatives if: You want premium handling characteristics, require comprehensive safety equipment as standard, or seek maximum reliability in this segment.

Competitive Position: The Nissan Note (2013-2017) occupies a unique position in the used market as an affordable, spacious alternative to conventional superminis. Whilst it may lack the driving engagement of the Ford B-Max or the premium appeal of rivals, its combination of practicality, economical running costs, and flexible interior makes it excellent value for budget-conscious buyers. The Note's main weakness is reliability, which is a consideration when comparing it to the Honda Jazz and Ford B-Max. However, for those prioritising space and affordability, the Note remains a sensible choice that offers more car for the money than many competitors.

Read our full Nissan Note Review

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