We first saw the second-generation Nissan Versa Note back in 2012, at the Geneva Motor Show. Rather than just getting a mild facelift, it got a completely different undercarriage in the form of a new platform which it shared with the Micra. Longer and wider than its predecessor, the Versa Note boasted a lower roof line, so it actually looked better proportioned. Making its way over to the U.S. in 2013, it replaced the hatchback Versa and got the moniker the Versa Note. It also uses a different engine compared to the rest of the markets worldwide.
EXTERIOR APPEARANCE
Nissan applied its ‘standard’ facelift to the new Versa Note. The 2017 Nissan Versa Note receives a “V-Motion” grille bringing its design in line with the rest of the Nissan line up. The 2017 Versa Note and Versa sedan are already best-sellers in the entry level segment, and the new updates for 2017 will make them that much more desirable. Should you be getting excited over a small city hatchback? If you value practicality, efficiency and comfort, then yes, very much so.
The new “V-Motion” grille is narrower than the previous one, but a lot taller, giving it a chiseled look. Add the swept-back rectangular halo headlights to replace the previous round ones, a sportier bumper with a two-tier central intake and black bezels, and the result is a sport well rounded exterior design.
The back end of the 2017 Nissan Versa Note is relatively unchanged, but a new sporty rear fascia upgrade package comes courtesy of the SR trim available on the S Plus, SV and SL. The 2017 Versa Note also gets two new exterior colors, dubbed Monarch Orange and Deep Blue Pearl. They join the standard color offerings of Briliant Silver and Super Black, offering some flamboyancy and liveliness.
INTERIOR VERSA-TILITY
Although the interior of the 2017 Nissan Versa Note isn’t as splendid as the exterior, it is functional and versatile as it should be with any respectable hatchback. Modifications are subtle and hard to spot unless you know where to look, but rest assured, they are there. For starters, it gets larger cup holders to accommodate bigger drinks with ease, there’s a 12-volt outlet and even an USB auxiliary port at the front of the center console. The higher-end trims come with a lot more optional extras. The Juke-style leather steering wheel is a must if you’ve got the funds, and the suede-like seats on the SR model are a nice upgrade. With NissanConnectSM and Mobile Apps, it gets properly integrated and connected with your mobile devices.
A 5.8-inch touchscreen displays all navigation and audio information, complete with Voice Recognition, SiriusXM Traffic and Around View Monitor2. The seats are lacking a bit of lateral support, but as far as comfort goes, they’re probably the best in the segment. Passengers will be able to stay comfortable and relaxed during long distance drives. Despite the small looking exterior, there’s a surprising amount of space, both in the front and the rear, along with an ample amount of cargo room. The only criticism is directed towards the gear shifter. It looks dated compared to newer units in other Nissans, but hey, if a gear shifter is all we can find wrong with it, it’s certainly doing something right!
ENGINE AND DRIVE
North American Versa Notes only get one engine option, keeping things simple. Nissan’s trusty 1.6L four cylinder engine produces 109 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough to move the lightweight body of the Versa Note at a decent pace. While the sprint to 60 mph may not impress you much, the fuel consumption certainly will. The 2017 Nissan Versa Note achieves an impressive 8.6 L/100km in the city and 6.6 L/100km on the highway.
Driving the 2017 Nissan Versa Note was quite a pleasure with its zippy accelerations, nimble handling and plenty of feedback. Maneuvering the Versa Note into parking spaces was a cinch thanks to the small size as well as the 360 camera. Overall, the 2017 Nissan Versa Note provides a spirited and pleasant driving experience.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The 2017 Versa Note delivers a style, a high-quality interior, amazing practicality and great performance, without breaking the bank. Be sure to test drive one to see for yourself. Starting a only $14,498, the 2017 Versa Note delivers amazing value and a spirited driving experience.
