MORE than 100,000 British buyers have already taken Note of Nissan’s UK-built supermini-MPV. To ensure its continuing popularity with buyers it’s receiving further upgrades for 2012.
The first noteworthy news is an increase in equipment and style for the popular Acenta model. On the outside are new ‘diamond cut’ two-tone 16-inch alloy wheels, replacing the original 15 inchers.
Add in chrome-effect door mirror covers and front fog light surrounds and the exterior changes become even more noticeable.
A new seat fabric with blue stitching is used to provide a more premium interior feel, while climate control, automatic headlights and rain-sensitive wipers all now come as standard.
Moving up the range, the best-selling N-TEC has been upgraded too. In addition to the Accent specification, the new N-TEC+ incorporates rear parking sensors to help keep the bodywork scuff-free. As with the N-TEC, darkened rear privacy glass and the touch screen ‘Connect’ satellite navigation system also feature..
The ‘Connect’ system additionally provides a full digital music connectivity package with built in CD/radio, iPod gateway, Aux-in, USB connection and Bluetooth phone connection.
Despite all this equipment, buyers can own a Note for less notes than might be expected. Prices start at £11,200 for the Visia, with the new Acenta at £13,000 and the new N-TEC+ a further £500. This makes it a real alternative to less practical superminis.
The engine line-up continues with the 1.4, 1.6 petrol and 1.5dCi power units. The Pure Drive badged 1.5dCi emits a CO2 level of just 110g/km with a combined economy figure of 67.3mpg.
The first of the new Notes will reach dealers in early February.