Nissan Note e-POWER Facelift Review: A Clever Hybrid for Urban Living

What we like:

Comfortable, zippy ride

Compact yet spacious enough

What we dislike:

Powertrain refinement could be improved

The Nissan Note e-POWER facelift brings a new twist to a familiar favourite: a compact, nimble city car that blends hybrid technology with the immediacy of an electric vehicle (EV) driving experience. In theory, it’s an attractive prospect—no range anxiety, nearly instantaneous torque, and an affordable price point. This setup feels like the future of urban commuting, delivering convenience, efficiency, and a dash of fun all wrapped in a small and friendly package.

That said, the facelift has left me a little conflicted. The new body panels, complete with colour-matched grilles and bumpers, come off as a bit garish for my taste. It’s a slight departure from the clean, streamlined aesthetic of its predecessor. Sure, the sharp lines and balanced proportions of the overall design are still intact, making this a good-looking hatchback in general. But that bold injection of colour and styling feels like Nissan’s attempt at humour—a touch too whimsical for my liking. I'll take mine in black, thank you very much.

Performance – A Smooth Transition into the EV World?

Unlike traditional hybrids, where the petrol engine plays a direct role in driving the wheels, the Nissan Note e-POWER is quite different. Its 1.2-litre petrol engine exists only to charge the battery, leaving the electric motor to do the actual driving. How it actually works is nothing short of ingenious–the bite-sized engine powers a generator which then charges the main battery, with a power inverter acting as the intermediary between battery and electrical motor up front driving the wheels. This unconventional setup is what gives the Note its electric vehicle feel, and the results are genuinely impressive.

With 114bhp and a respectable 280 Nm of torque, the Note delivers quick, responsive acceleration, particularly at lower speeds, making it a joy to zip around stop-start traffic. The compact dimensions and almost instant electric torque make it perfect for weaving through traffic or darting into tight parking spaces. Despite its size, the Note holds its own on the expressways, thanks to a suspension system that absorbs bumps well and enough sound insulation to keep the cabin pleasantly quiet on most road surfaces.

But while this powertrain combination brings a lot to the table, it’s not without its faults. Under heavier acceleration, especially when you’re asking for more oomph to merge onto highways or overtake, the 1.2-litre petrol engine becomes noticeably audible. It’s a droning sound—common in many hybrids—where the engine works hard to keep up with the demands of the electric motor. In this case, the petrol engine doesn’t have the refinement you might hope for. It’s not particularly harsh nor undesirable in any sense, but it does disrupt the otherwise serene driving experience that the electric motor provides.

For those making their first foray into the world of electrified cars, the Nissan Note e-POWER is a reassuring bridge. It gives you the benefits of an EV—smooth, near-silent starts and instant torque—without requiring you to shape your driving habits around charging stations. Temper your expectations a little, and you’ll be more than satisfied with this powertrain.

Driving Experience – Balanced for City Comfort

When it comes to handling, the Nissan Note’s light steering makes it an easy companion for city driving. It doesn’t demand much effort, allowing you to manoeuvre comfortably in tight spaces and around sharp turns. The suspension, though on the softer side, is tuned just right for our urban jungle, plush and composed enough to tide you through the potholes, undulations and edgy traffic here.

Where the Note may feel slightly lacking is in steering feedback. For those who enjoy a more connected driving experience, the steering might feel a touch too vague, especially at higher speeds. This isn't a car designed to carve through corners with aggression—it’s more about comfort, ease, and efficiency.

Interior – Modern and Fuss-Free

Step inside the Nissan Note e-POWER, and you’ll find a cabin that’s thoughtfully designed and refreshingly modern. While it’s not luxurious by any means, it does not lack the technology and creature comforts for a car in this segment.

The facelifted model comes equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which would honestly satisfy most of your in-car needs. The display is crisp, responsive, and feels fitting for a modern compact car. I’ve always adored flat-bottom steering wheels, and the leather-clad example fitted in the Note is lovely to hold.

Despite its compact exterior, the Note offers surprising room inside. It comfortably accommodates four adults, and there’s ample legroom in both the front and rear seats. The 340-litre boot space is practical for daily use, though it won’t handle a major grocery haul or airport runs unless you fold the rear seats down. I particularly like the small but meaningful touches in the cabin—storage compartments where you expect them to be, soft leather seats with contrast stitching, and a general sense of sturdiness.

Conclusion – A Fun, Efficient Urban Companion

At around $166,800, the Nissan Note e-POWER is decently priced for a hybrid (in today’s market), but its value extends beyond just its efficiency. It offers a unique driving experience, combining the best elements of an electric car with the reliability and convenience of a petrol engine. Its small size, ample technology, and comfortable ride make it a perfect urban commuter.

Sure, the Note e-POWER has its quirks. The facelift’s bold styling may not be to everyone’s taste, and the noise from the petrol engine under load can be a slight annoyance. But for those seeking a practical, efficient, and enjoyable way to navigate city streets without the hassles of charging stations, this little hybrid offers plenty to love.

Photos by Chin Hui and James Wong

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