The Nissan Note Nismo S 1.6 (140 Hp), introduced as part of the E12 facelift in 2017, represents a performance-oriented variant of Nissan’s popular supermini. Positioned as a sporty trim level within the second-generation Note (E12) lineup, which ran from 2012 to 2020, the Nismo S aimed to appeal to drivers seeking a more engaging driving experience without sacrificing the Note’s practicality and fuel efficiency. This model was primarily sold in European and Asian markets, where the demand for small, efficient, and stylish hatchbacks is high. The facelift brought updated styling and, in the case of the Nismo S, a more potent engine option.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Note |
| Generation | Note II (E12, facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | Nismo S 1.6 (140 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 129.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 150.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 163 Nm @ 4800 rpm (120.22 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HR16DE |
| Engine displacement | 1597 cm3 (97.45 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.6 mm (3.29 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1080 kg (2380.99 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1355 kg (2987.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 275 kg (606.27 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 41 l (10.83 US gal | 9.02 UK gal) |
| Length | 4165 mm (163.98 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/45 ZR17 84W |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17 ET47 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Note Nismo S 1.6 is the HR16DE engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a member of Nissan’s HR series, known for its relatively lightweight construction and decent fuel efficiency. The HR16DE utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine produces 140 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 163 Nm (120.22 lb-ft) of torque at 4800 rpm. The engine’s design prioritizes a balance between performance and economy, making it suitable for urban driving and longer journeys alike. The Nismo S was exclusively offered with a five-speed manual transmission, providing drivers with greater control over the engine’s power delivery. This transmission was chosen to enhance the sporty character of the Nismo variant.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine and five-speed manual gearbox combination in the Note Nismo S delivers a noticeably more spirited driving experience compared to the standard Note models equipped with smaller engines or automatic transmissions. While not a particularly fast car, the Nismo S feels responsive and agile, especially in city driving. The manual transmission allows for precise gear selection, enabling drivers to keep the engine within its optimal power band. The gear ratios are tuned to provide good acceleration in lower gears, while still offering reasonable fuel economy at highway speeds. Compared to the base 1.2-liter engine, the 1.6-liter offers significantly more torque, making overtaking maneuvers easier and more confident. The Nismo S’s suspension is also slightly stiffer than the standard Note, contributing to reduced body roll and improved handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Nismo S trim level added several sporty enhancements to the standard Note. Exterior features included a unique front bumper, side skirts, and a rear spoiler, all designed to give the car a more aggressive appearance. Inside, the Nismo S featured sport seats with enhanced bolstering, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedal covers. Standard equipment also included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Optional extras could include navigation, parking sensors, and upgraded audio systems. The interior trim typically featured dark upholstery with red accents, further emphasizing the sporty theme.
Chassis & Braking
The Note Nismo S utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent coil spring suspension at the front and an elastic beam suspension at the rear. The front suspension provides good ride comfort and handling, while the rear elastic beam is a cost-effective solution that offers adequate stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system is assisted by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) to enhance safety and control during emergency stops. The Nismo S typically featured slightly larger diameter wheels and tires (205/45 ZR17) compared to the standard Note, which further improved grip and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Note Nismo S 1.6 was generally well-received by automotive critics as a fun and affordable small hatchback. Reviewers praised its sporty styling, engaging driving dynamics, and relatively fuel-efficient engine. However, some critics noted that the interior materials were not as premium as those found in some of its competitors. Compared to other trims in the Note lineup, the Nismo S offered a more performance-focused experience, appealing to drivers who prioritized driving enjoyment over outright comfort or fuel economy. Against rivals like the Suzuki Swift Sport and the Volkswagen Polo GTI, the Note Nismo S offered a competitive package in terms of price and performance, although it generally lacked the refinement and brand prestige of some of its European competitors.
Legacy
The HR16DE engine, while not known for being exceptionally complex, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain when properly maintained. Common issues include occasional oil leaks and potential problems with the timing chain at very high mileage. The Note Nismo S 1.6 has maintained a reasonable level of popularity in the used car market, particularly among buyers seeking an affordable and sporty small hatchback. Its combination of practicality, fuel efficiency, and engaging driving dynamics continues to appeal to a wide range of drivers. As a result, well-maintained examples of the Note Nismo S 1.6 can still command a decent price on the used car market today.
