Nissan Note review
E12 (incl. e-Power) · 2014–2020 imports
The Note is a roomy small hatchback with surprising rear legroom, and the e-Power version drives like an electric car while running on petrol.
Price guide (used)
KSh 800,000 – KSh 1,400,000
Our verdict
Good value and more spacious than a Vitz. The e-Power is brilliant in traffic, but make sure you have a mechanic who understands it.
Best for: Small families, town commuting
What we like
- ✅ Lots of rear legroom
- ✅ e-Power is smooth and frugal
- ✅ Affordable to buy
- ✅ Light, easy controls
What we don't
- ❌ Supercharged and e-Power versions need specialist care
- ❌ Interior feels cheap
- ❌ Lower resale than Toyota rivals
Driving
Easy and relaxed around town. The e-Power's electric drive gives instant response in traffic; the 1.2 petrol is slower on the highway.
Running costs
Petrol models give 15–18 km/L; e-Power can reach 20+ km/L in town. Parts are available, though less common than for Toyotas.
Practicality
Rear passengers get more space than in most rivals, and the boot is a decent size for the class.
What to check when buying
Check the CVT on petrol models and run a diagnostic on e-Power cars for system warnings.
Running costs
Typical monthly cost to run a Note worth about 1.1M, using our real-world economy figure (15–22 km/L).
About KSh 19 per km · 1,200 km a month. Fuel at EPRA Nairobi prices (15 Oct 2026); estimates only.
Spare parts & servicing prices
What common parts and jobs cost for a Nissan Note in Kenya.
| Part / job | Typical cost (KSh) |
|---|---|
| Minor service (oil, oil filter, labour)every 5,000–10,000 km | 4,500 – 7,000 |
| Major service (plugs, air & fuel filters, fluids)every 40,000 km | 12,000 – 20,000 |
| Front brake pads (fitted)every 20,000–40,000 km | 2,500 – 5,000 |
| Front shock absorbers (pair, fitted)every 60,000–100,000 km | 8,000 – 16,000 |
| Batteryevery 2–3 years | 8,000 – 12,000 |
| Tyre (each, new mid-range)every 40,000–50,000 km | 6,000 – 9,000 |
| CV joint (one side, fitted) | 4,000 – 8,000 |
| Gearbox oil service (ATF / CVT)every 40,000–60,000 km | 6,000 – 10,000 |
Typical small car prices for quality aftermarket parts fitted at an independent garage in Nairobi. Genuine parts and dealer servicing often cost 1.5–3× more; prices vary by town and supplier.
What owners say
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