The Nissan Versa Note is a subcompact hatchback marketed by Nissan primarily for budget-conscious consumers. Introduced for the 2014 model year in North America (following its initial debut in other markets), the Versa Note represented Nissan’s entry into the increasingly popular subcompact segment. This generation, produced from 2013 to 2017, aimed to provide affordability, fuel efficiency, and surprising interior space within a small footprint. The 1.6-liter engine paired with the Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) was a common configuration, offering a balance between performance and economy.
Nissan Versa Note 1.6 (109 Hp) Xtronic CVT: An Overview
The Versa Note occupied a crucial position in Nissan’s lineup, serving as an accessible and practical option for first-time car buyers, urban commuters, and those seeking a secondary vehicle. While not positioned as a performance vehicle, the Versa Note prioritized fuel efficiency and interior volume, making it a competitive choice in its class. The Xtronic CVT, while not universally praised by enthusiasts, contributed significantly to the car’s fuel economy figures. This model was never officially sold in Europe, but similar Nissan subcompacts were available under different names, catering to the demand for small, economical cars in that market.
Engine & Performance
The Nissan Versa Note 1.6 utilized Nissan’s HR16DE 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated engine produced 109 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 145 Nm (106.95 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine featured multi-port fuel injection and a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS). Power was delivered to the front wheels via Nissan’s Xtronic CVT, a continuously variable transmission designed to maximize fuel efficiency. The weight-to-power ratio stood at 10.2 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio was 7.7 kg/Nm. While acceleration wasn’t a strong point, the powertrain was adequate for everyday driving and prioritized fuel economy. The engine displacement was 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.).
Design & Features
The Versa Note was a five-door hatchback, offering a practical body style with a relatively spacious interior for its size. The design was functional rather than overtly stylish, prioritizing affordability and maximizing interior space. The hatchback configuration provided versatility, with a trunk space ranging from 532 liters (18.79 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1085 liters (38.32 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The interior offered seating for five passengers. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), although advanced driver-assistance systems were not commonly found on this generation of the vehicle. The Versa Note’s appeal lay in its practicality and affordability, offering a no-frills transportation solution. The vehicle’s dimensions were 4158 mm (163.7 in.) in length, 1694 mm (66.69 in.) in width, and 1537 mm (60.51 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2601 mm (102.4 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Versa Note |
| Generation | Versa Note |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (109 Hp) Xtronic CVT |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Tier 2-Bin 5 (EPA); LEV2-ULEV |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 109 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 4400 rpm (106.95 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | HR16DE |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVTCS |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.2 l (3.38 US qt | 2.82 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1116-1126 kg (2460.36 – 2482.41 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 532 l (18.79 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1085 l (38.32 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 41 l (10.83 US gal | 9.02 UK gal) |
| Length | 4158 mm (163.7 in.) |
| Width | 1694 mm (66.69 in.) |
| Height | 1537 mm (60.51 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2601 mm (102.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1481 mm (58.31 in.) |
| Rear track | 1486 mm (58.5 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.298 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Xtronic CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 HR15; 195/55 HR16 |
| Wheel rims size | 5.5J x 15; 6.0J x 16 |
The Nissan Versa Note 1.6 (109 Hp) Xtronic CVT, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, served a valuable purpose in the automotive market. Its focus on affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality made it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. The combination of the HR16DE engine and the Xtronic CVT provided a reasonable driving experience, prioritizing economy over performance. The Versa Note’s legacy lies in its accessibility and its contribution to Nissan’s presence in the subcompact hatchback segment.
