2013 Nissan Note

In Japan, the new Note will launch this fall with a choice of two 1.2-liter three-cylinder petrol engines, in naturally aspirated and supercharged forms, both coupled to a next-generation XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) for all grades with an Idling Stop System for the 2WD models.

The automaker noted that the supercharged engine delivers a fuel economy of 25.2 km/L (58.9 mpg US, 70.7mpg UK or 4.0lt/100km) in Japan's JC08 mode.

While Nissan has not yet provided detailed information, we do know that in the Micra, the 1.2L engines produce 79hp and 97hp respectively.

Among other available features will be Nissan's Around View Monitor (AVM) parking assistance system.

The new Japanese-market Note, which is featured in these images, will be produced at Nissan Motor Kyushu, while the European version of the car that is slated for release in early 2013, will be built at Nissan's Sunderland plant in the U.K.

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Nissan 370Z Facelifted

The changes on all configurations of the 370Z including the Coupe, Roadster and the NISMO edition are extremely subtle.


Starting with the Coupe and Roadster, on the outside, you'll probably notice the revised front bumper that gains vertical LED daytime running lights in a similar position that the older 350Z featured reflectors.

Nissan's designers also added a red reflector to the rear fascia that replaces the previous black center cover. The regular coupe now rides on newly designed 18-inch wheels while the Sport Package equipped models gain revised 19-inch alloys, red-finish brake calipers, and what Nissan describes as "Euro-tuned" shock absorbers.

The dark-finish fuel gauge trim and the addition of two new exterior colors called Magma Red and Midnight Blue complete the upgrades on the regular Coupe and Roadster models.

As for the NISMO 370Z, the only changes compared to the 2012MY version concerns the addition of new Bose Premium Audio Package with two additional speakers and two subwoofers, and the introduction of gun metallic dark-finish 19-inch wheels, and Nissan GT-R style high-rigidity brake hoses and performance brake fluid.

The NISMO model does not get the revised front and rear fascias of the regular 370Zs.

There are no changes under the hood with the 370Z Coupe and Roadster motivated by a 332HP 3.7-liter V6 and the NISMO edition by a 350HP 3.7-liter V6.

Nissan said it will release more information including pricing closer to the 2013MY 370Z's launch date in June.

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Video: 2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 vs 2013 Nissan GT-R

You see, Camaro ZL1 with its 580HP 6.2L supercharged V8 will retail for $54,995 (€41,800) when it arrives in dealerships this spring, whereas the 2013 edition of the 545HP Nissan  GT-R starts from $96,820 (€73,500) not including destination and handling fees. This means there's more $40,000 difference between the two cars.

Having said that, it shouldn't surprise anyone that the all-wheel drive GT-R comes out as the more advanced sports car of the two being faster and more potent on the track in R&T's test.

However, the magazine does note that the rear-wheel drive ZL1 has more character and allows for more driver involvement, even though this comes at a cost on the track.

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