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Used Nissan Note Buying Guide in KSA

Tarteel ali
Tarteel ali
2025-08-22
contents

Is Nissan Note A Good Choice as A Used Car?a close up of a nissan emblem on a car

The Nissan Note is a compact hatchback that has been a popular choice for car buyers seeking practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability. If you're in the market for a used car in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and are considering the Nissan Note, you're in the right place. This article will help you understand whether the Nissan Note is a good choice as a used car, and we'll explore the different generations of the model to determine which one offers the best value for money.

Overall, the Nissan Note is regarded as a reliable and economical vehicle, making it a good choice for those looking for a used car. However, not all generations are created equal, and some may be better suited to your needs than others. Let's delve into the various generations of the Nissan Note to help you decide which one is worth your money.


Specification Comparisona red car parked on the side of the road

To give you a clear understanding of how different generations of the Nissan Note compare, here’s a quick side-by-side table with the specifications that KSA buyers care about most:

Generation (Years)

Engine Options

Fuel Economy (km/l)

Transmission

Drivetrain

Notable Features

1st Gen (2004-2012)

1.4L, 1.6L

15-17 km/l

Manual, CVT

FWD

Spacious interior, basic safety features

2nd Gen (2012-2019)

1.2L, 1.6L, Hybrid

20-23 km/l

CVT

FWD

Keyless entry, updated infotainment

3rd Gen (2020-Present)

1.2L Hybrid

25-30 km/l

e-Power (EV-like)

FWD

ProPilot Assist, modern tech, fuel saver


Generation-Based Breakdowna close up of the tail lights of a car

1st Generation (2004-2012)

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Affordable price in the used market.

  • Reliable engine.

  • Spacious interior for a small car.

Cons:

  • Outdated technology and safety features.

  • Average fuel economy compared to newer models.

  • Underwhelming performance in terms of acceleration.

Key Features and Updates Introduced

  • Simple and functional design.

  • Large legroom and cargo space for its class.

  • Basic safety features such as airbags and ABS.

Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency

  • 1.4L petrol engine: ~15 km/l.

  • 1.6L petrol engine: ~16-17 km/l.

Known Problems and Common Issues

  • Some owners report issues with the CVT transmission.

  • Rusting in older models, especially in humid regions.

Recommended Year to Purchase

2009 Nissan Note

Overview

The 1st generation Nissan Note is a practical and affordable option for buyers on a tight budget. While it lacks modern tech and advanced safety features, its spacious interior and reliable engine make it a decent choice for city commuting in KSA. However, its age and potential transmission issues may deter some buyers.


2nd Generation (2012-2019)

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Improved fuel efficiency.

  • Modernized interior with updated infotainment.

  • Keyless entry and push-button start in higher trims.

Cons:

  • CVT reliability concerns persist.

  • Limited engine options for performance enthusiasts.

Key Features and Updates Introduced

  • Introduction of hybrid engine options.

  • Enhanced infotainment system with touchscreen.

  • Rearview camera in higher trims.

Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency

  • 1.2L petrol engine: ~20 km/l.

  • 1.6L petrol engine: ~18-20 km/l.

  • 1.2L hybrid: ~23 km/l.

Known Problems and Common Issues

  • CVT transmission overheating under heavy use.

  • Minor electrical issues, such as malfunctioning infotainment systems.

Recommended Year to Purchase

2017 Nissan Note

Overview

The 2nd generation Nissan Note is a marked improvement over its predecessor, offering better fuel economy, a more modern interior, and hybrid options. It's a great choice for city dwellers in KSA who prioritize efficiency and convenience. However, potential CVT issues mean buyers should thoroughly inspect the transmission before purchasing.


3rd Generation (2020-Present)

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Exceptional fuel economy with e-Power hybrid technology.

  • Cutting-edge features like ProPilot Assist (adaptive cruise control).

  • Sleek and modern design, both inside and out.

Cons:

  • Higher price tag in the used market.

  • Limited availability in KSA compared to earlier generations.

Key Features and Updates Introduced

  • e-Power hybrid system mimicking an electric vehicle experience.

  • Advanced driver-assist features such as lane-keeping assist.

  • Larger infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency

  • 1.2L e-Power hybrid: ~25-30 km/l.

Known Problems and Common Issues

  • No significant issues reported yet due to the model's newness.

Recommended Year to Purchase

2021 Nissan Note e-Power

Overview

The 3rd generation Nissan Note brings the model into the modern era with its cutting-edge hybrid technology and advanced features. It's an excellent choice for environmentally conscious buyers in KSA looking for a fuel-efficient and stylish compact car. However, it may be priced higher than previous generations, making it less accessible for budget-conscious buyers.


ConclusionA close-up of the nissan logo.

Which Generation is the Best Value for Money in KSA?

For most buyers in KSA, the 2nd generation (2012-2019) Nissan Note offers the best balance of affordability, fuel economy, and modern features. While the 3rd generation is more advanced, it may be out of reach for buyers on a budget, and the 1st generation lacks the modern features many buyers expect.

Alternatives

If the Nissan Note doesn’t suit your needs, consider these alternatives:

Tips Before Purchasing

  1. Inspect the CVT Transmission: Especially for the 1st and 2nd generations, as this is a known weak point.

  2. Check Service History: Ensure the car has been regularly maintained, particularly for hybrid models.

  3. Test Drive on Highway: Confirm the car handles well at higher speeds, as some older models may have stability issues.

  4. Consider Fuel Costs: With fuel prices in KSA, opting for a hybrid version can save you money in the long run.

By following these tips and considering the information above, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision when buying a used Nissan Note in KSA.

Also Read:

previous: Used Nissan Murano Buying Guide in KSANext: Used Nissan NV200 Buying Guide in KSA
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