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October 22, 2021
In a Word: Fast and Comfortable—A Test Drive of the Nissan Note Aura | NISSAN
Driving Feel Like Sports Shoes
The Note Aura's greatest appeal is its effortless speed. Furthermore, the ability to accelerate and decelerate with subtle throttle inputs creates a sense of unity between the driver and the car. This is where I find its greatest value as a hatchback that offers a new kind of surprise.
The driving experience, particularly in urban settings, feels akin to wearing sports shoes. Compared to conventional internal combustion engine vehicles (gasoline or diesel), which feel like wearing heavy boots, the Aura offers a remarkably nimble ride.
Although I felt the seat's hold was somewhat lacking when I drove a prototype previously, testing the fabric seat specification this time revealed no such issues. Both the lower body and upper body are well supported, contributing to a comfortable driving experience.
The "G-FOUR" is priced at ¥2,868,800 (¥2,957,900 for the leather seat specification). Personally, I recommend opting for the fabric seat version and adding the set option (¥401,500), which includes ProPILOT (with navigation link function), an integrated interface display, NissanConnect navigation system (with terrestrial digital TV), and the BOSE Personal Plus Sound System.
The ProPILOT included in the aforementioned set option can be activated with a single button. Its functions include steering wheel control during high-speed driving, acceleration and braking control to follow the preceding vehicle, deceleration for curves, resuming following after stopping, and automatically adjusting the set speed based on traffic signs.
Indeed, it operates accurately and is useful for high-speed travel. However, to be honest, I find it more enjoyable to handle all the operations myself. This is because the new Note Aura is, in my opinion, a car for the driver.
