Tech Spec: 2014 Nissan Versa Note

Feb. 1, 2015
Nissan launched its second-generation hatchback Nissan Versa Note in June 2013, so now in early 2015, you should be seeing some roll through your bays.While it shares its platform and drivetrain with the Versa sedan, the Versa Note offers more value than the previous Versa hatchback (circa 2012). The 2014 Versa Note is offered in a range of trims: S, S Plus and SV, with available SV Convenience, Sport Value, SL and SL Tech Packages. Each Versa Note is equipped with an advanced 1.6-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine with dual fuel injection and Twin Continuously Variable Timing Control.One interesting tidbit

Nissan launched its second-generation hatchback Nissan Versa Note in June 2013, so now in early 2015, you should be seeing some roll through your bays.

While it shares its platform and drivetrain with the Versa sedan, the Versa Note offers more value than the previous Versa hatchback (circa 2012). The 2014 Versa Note is offered in a range of trims: S, S Plus and SV, with available SV Convenience, Sport Value, SL and SL Tech Packages. Each Versa Note is equipped with an advanced 1.6-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine with dual fuel injection and Twin Continuously Variable Timing Control.

One interesting tidbit is CVT-equipped Versa Note models sport Nissan’s first-ever Active Grille Shutter, which limits the amount of air entering the engine compartment, reducing drag force by 0.01. The Active Grille Shutter is generally closed at speeds above 20 miles per hour.

The Versa Note’s dynamic design rides on Nissan’s global V platform. It features a long 102.4-inch wheelbase helping maximize interior roominess, while six-inch shorter front and rear overhangs than the previous Versa hatchback help provide a sporty stance and parking maneuverability.

Another key aspect of the new platform and drivetrain is an estimated 300-pound reduction in overall weight — including more than 200 pounds from structure optimization and more than 50 pounds through use of the new engine, CVT transmission and driveshaft.

Anchoring the front-wheel drive Versa Note is a 1.6-liter HR16DE four-cylinder engine rated at 109 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 107 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine includes a range of technologies, including a dual fuel injector system that allows a wider injection of fuel versus traditional single injector systems. The smaller nozzles deliver a spray approximately 57 percent finer than the previous generation’s particle size to help achieve more complete combustion.

The compact, lightweight engine also utilizes a Twin Continuously Variable Timing Control (CVTC) system mounted on intake and exhaust ports. Using a CVTC on the outlet port increases thermal efficiency, decreases inhalation resistance and offers an approximate 4 percent improvement in fuel efficiency.

The 2014 Versa Note is offered with a choice of two transmissions — a five-speed manual transmission (S model only) or a next-generation Xtronic CVT transmission. The CVT allows continuous change of the transmission gear ratio by connecting the two pulleys with a metallic belt and changing their diameter by using hydraulic pressure.

Aiding efficiency is an integrated auxiliary gearbox using planetary gearing. The CVT features a transmission ratio of 7.3:1, and a CVT oil warmer transfers engine coolant heat to the CVT oil, helping reduce CVT friction during cold starts.

The updated, stylish Versa Note has a roomy interior with many features. Heated front seats with upgraded seat cloth and stitching are available, along with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, chrome/silver accents, USB input and steering wheel-mounted audio and Bluetooth controls.

It is also available with Nissan’s advanced Around View Monitor. The system utilizes four small superwide-angle cameras mounted on the front, side and rear of the vehicle to provide a virtual 360-degree view of objects around the vehicle, with selectable split-screen close-ups of the front, rear and curb views, helping the driver maneuver the car into tight spots. The Around View Monitor is offered as part of the SL Tech Package.

The Versa Note rides on standard 15-inch steel wheels with 185/65HR15 all-season tires, while 15-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with 195/55HR16 all-season tires are available. Low rolling resistance tires are standard on all models.

The all-new 2014 Nissan Versa Note carries a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $13,990. A top-of-the-line Versa Note SL with the Tech Package, Chrome Package, 16-inch aluminum wheels, rear roof spoiler, splash guards, rear bumper protector, carpeted cargo and floor mats, Interior Illumination Package and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink, will cost a driver just north of $22,000.

Servicing the 2014 Nissan Versa Note

Standard maintenance on the Versa Note features a 5,000-mile or six-month (whichever comes first) service interval for drivers who primarily operate the vehicle on the highway in temperate conditions. Premium maintenance is a Nissan recommended optional upgrade that adds services when maintenance is performed. Performing the Premium upgrade services may optimize the performance, durability, reliability and resale value of the Versa Note. Additional maintenance items for severe operating conditions should be performed on vehicles that are driven under especially demanding conditions. Additional maintenance items should be performed if the vehicle is primarily operated under the following conditions:

• Repeated trips of less than five miles in normal temperatures or less than 10 miles in freezing temperatures.

• Stop-and-go traffic in hot weather or low-speed driving for long distances.

• Driving in dusty conditions or on rough, muddy or salt-spread roads.

• Towing a trailer or using a camper or car-top carrier.

STANDARD MAINTENANCE

Every 5,000 miles or six months:

• Replace engine oil and filter

• Rotate tires

Every 10,000 miles or 12 months:

• Inspect brake lines and cables

• Inspect brake pads, rotors, drums and linings

• Inspect CVT fluid

• Inspect manual transmission oil

• Inspect drive shaft boots

Every 15,000 miles or 18 months:

• Replace in-cabin microfilter, if equipped

Every 20,000 miles or 24 months:

• Replace brake fluid

• Inspect axle and suspension parts

• Inspect exhaust system

• Inspect front suspension ball joints

• Inspect fuel lines/connections

• Inspect fuel tank vapor vent system hoses

• Inspect steering gear and linkage

• Inspect steering linkage ball joints

Every 30,000 miles or 36 months:

• Replace engine air filter

Every 40,000 miles or 48 months:

• Inspect engine drive belts

Every 105,000 miles or 126 months:

• Replace spark plugs

PREMIUM MAINTENANCE UPGRADE ITEMS

Premium Upgrade adds the following services to the Standard Maintenance schedule.

Every 30,000 miles or 36 months:

Lubricate all locks/hinges

• Replace CVT fluid

• Replace engine drive belts

• Replace radiator cap

• Replace wiper blades

• Inspect all lights

• Inspect headlights; adjust if necessary

ADDITIONAL MAINTENANCE ITEMS FOR SEVERE OPERATING CONDITIONS

 Every 5,000 miles or six months:

• Inspect axle and suspension parts

• Inspect brake pads, rotors, drums and linings

• Inspect drive shaft boots

• Inspect exhaust system

• Inspect front suspension ball joints

• Inspect steering gear and linkage

• Inspect steering linkage ball joints

Every 10,000 miles or 12 months:

• Replace brake fluid

Fluids and Capacities

Engine Oil: API SAE 5W-30; capacity (with filter change) 3.75 quarts (3.5 liters); capacity (without filter change) 3.375 quarts (3.2 liters)

Coolant: Pre-diluted genuine Nissan long life antifreeze/coolant (blue) or equivalent; capacity (for manual transmission vehicle) 1.75 gallons (6.7 liters); capacity (for CVT vehicle) 1.875 gallons (7.3 liters)

Manual Transmission Gear Oil: Genuine Nissan manual transmission fluid HQ multi 75W-85 or equivalent

CVT Fluid: Genuine Nissan CVT fluid NS-3

Brake Fluid: Genuine Nissan super heavy duty brake fluid or equivalent DOT 3