Nissan launches new Note featuring ‘Timeless Japanese Futurism’
Nissan has modernised its Note by leveraging its current design language, but some retro features remain
The new Nissan Note has been launched in Japan and is the latest model to be subject to the company’s ‘Timeless Japanese Futurism’ design language. It is the third iteration of the model, but the first to come equipped with an all-electric powertrain.
Nissan’s familiar V-motion grille sits centre stage on the front end. A thick strip of black metal with a glossy finish runs across the top, meeting the long, stretched headlamps that push back to finish above the front wheels. The black metal and lamps join at the same height, ensuring that the bonnet runs in a single sweeping line until the lamps finish. Under the lamps are thin strips of chrome that run down and outline the bottom sides of the grille. There are small, slitted air vents at the far corners of the front, while a small bumper sits low and houses the small daytime running lights.
The side is kept simple, with a single belt line running beneath the windows. There are also grooves etched out of the body to arch over the wheels, but as these don’t protrude, they fail to offer a sense of sportiness.
There is a thick reflective plastic stemming the width of the rear, connecting the two back lights. The shape of the boot and bumper are both square, making the back look bulky and giving it a retro appearance.
The model will be available in 13 different colours, including two two-tone options and the ’Vivid Blue’ (pictured). A new colour called ’Opera Mauve’ has also been created especially for the Note.
Inside is a different story. Two enormous screens and a floating centre console ensure a modern feel. The middle layer of the three-tiered dash is finished in textured plastic that looks like carbon fibre, giving way to narrow air vents at the far sides. Leather is used here and there, though most of the dash is made up of black matt plastic.
The seats are the only missing piece of the modern puzzle. Their striped black and white covers look ancient, but Nissan says they feature ‘Zero Gravity’ technology to enhance comfort.
Nissan’s ‘Timeless Japanese Futurism’ design language has been explored in other models, such as the iMk that was featured in Interior Motives magazine. It embodies traditional Japanese design sensibilities, and is combined with a view toward emerging technologies that will influence design in the coming decade.
