The Nissan Note I (E11), produced from 2005 to 2009, represented Nissan’s entry into the increasingly popular supermini segment, particularly in the European market. Positioned as a practical and versatile hatchback, the Note aimed to offer a blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and innovative interior packaging. The 1.6 i 16V variant, generating 110 horsepower, occupied a mid-range position within the E11 lineup, offering a step up in performance from the base 1.4-liter engine while remaining more accessible than the later introduction of diesel options. This model was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a comfortable and economical daily driver with enough power for typical urban and highway driving.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Nissan |
| Model | Note |
| Generation | Note I (E11) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 i 16V (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 99.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 138.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 153 Nm @ 4400 rpm (112.85 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 |
| Cylinder Bore | 78 mm (3.07 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.6 mm (3.29 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1107 kg (2440.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1560 kg (3439.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 453 kg (998.69 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 280 l (9.89 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1332 l (47.04 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 46 l (12.15 US gal | 10.12 UK gal) |
| Length | 4083 mm (160.75 in.) |
| Width | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Height | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1470 mm (57.87 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 185/55 R16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Note 1.6 i 16V is the HR16DE engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Nissan’s HR series, known for its relatively lightweight construction and focus on fuel efficiency. The HR16DE utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and power output. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine produces 110 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 153 Nm (113 lb-ft) of torque at 4400 rpm. This power is delivered to the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. The engine’s design prioritized smooth operation and reasonable fuel economy over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine in the Note I provided a noticeable improvement in performance compared to the base 1.4-liter option. While not a particularly sporty vehicle, the 1.6 i 16V offered adequate acceleration for everyday driving situations, with a 0-60 mph time of around 10.2 seconds. The five-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to maintain optimal engine speed for efficient cruising or quicker acceleration. The gear ratios were tuned for economy, meaning the engine could feel slightly strained when pushed hard. Compared to later diesel variants, the 1.6 i 16V offered a smoother, quieter driving experience, but lacked the low-end torque of the diesel engines. The overall driving experience was comfortable and predictable, making it well-suited for urban commutes and longer journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 i 16V Note typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an adjustable steering column. Air conditioning was often included, or available as an option. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Higher trim levels offered options such as alloy wheels, a CD player with more speakers, and upgraded interior trim. The Note’s interior was particularly notable for its flexible seating arrangements, including a sliding rear bench and a flat-folding front passenger seat, allowing for a surprisingly versatile cargo area.
Chassis & Braking
The Note I utilized a relatively simple chassis design, featuring a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The suspension was tuned for comfort and stability, prioritizing ride quality over handling precision. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing light and easy steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Nissan Note 1.6 i 16V was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and affordable supermini. It was praised for its spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements, and reasonable fuel economy. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked outright power and refinement compared to some of its competitors. Compared to the 1.4-liter version, the 1.6 i 16V offered a worthwhile performance upgrade, making it a more appealing option for drivers who frequently carried passengers or drove on highways. The diesel variants, introduced later, offered superior fuel economy and torque, but came at a higher price point.
Legacy
The Nissan Note I (E11) 1.6 i 16V has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the HR16DE engine generally considered durable and long-lasting. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, timing chain inspection (although less frequent than belt replacements), and monitoring of coolant levels. On the used car market, the Note I 1.6 i 16V represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and practical supermini. Its spacious interior, flexible seating, and reasonable running costs make it a sensible choice for first-time car buyers or those needing a dependable daily driver. While not a performance icon, the Note I 1.6 i 16V remains a testament to Nissan’s commitment to building practical and efficient vehicles.
