For The 1.4 Acenta provides the best balance of performance, equipment and value, and is our choice of the Note range. With standard alloy wheels, it looks smart, too.
Against Good though the petrol engine is, it lacks the mid-range punch and the excellent fuel economy of the two diesel units. Neither traction control nor a CD multichanger are available.
The petrol-engined Acenta costs less than the equivalent diesel-powered model and is a sound all-rounder that will serve young families and other buyers well.
There are three engines to choose from and even the entry-level, 87bhp 1.4-litre petrol does a fine job. We rate its sprightly feel around town, and it never feels out of its depth on faster roads. The 1.6 petrol engine is faster still, but fuel economy drops from 47.9mpg to 42.8mpg. The diesel offers good economy and plenty of mid-range performance.
Although the Note is pricier than many five-door superminis that you might consider as alternatives, low emissions and good fuel economy keep running costs competitive. The entry-level Visia model gets a CD player and electric front windows, but no air-con. Our favourite model is the 1.4 Acenta: it costs an extra £1600 more than the 1.4 Visia, but we reckon it's worth spending the money. Air-conditioning, rear electric windows and full-length curtain airbags all join the equipment roster.
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