The 2019 Nissan Note Medalist e-Power represents the pinnacle of Nissan's highly successful compact hatchback lineup, fusing standard commuter flexibility with an innovative, award-winning series hybrid drivetrain. As the premium "Medalist" trim, this specific model steps away from basic economy car aesthetics by injecting upscale styling cues, high-grade interior appointments, and an array of active safety features. By keeping a neat balance between electric vehicle (EV) agility, absolute fuel efficiency, and a small urban footprint, it avoids compromising daily utility for eco-friendly engineering.
The exterior styling masterfully pairs aerodynamic hatchback efficiency with premium corporate design language. Finished in a deep gloss black colorway, the vehicle stands out upfront with Nissan's signature V-Motion grille framework, uniquely accented by an e-Power exclusive electric blue inner horizontal stripe that signifies its hybrid identity. Swept-back multi-reflector headlamps flow smoothly into the sculpted front fenders, while the lower bumper integrates chrome horizontal trim strips and low-slung halogen fog lights. The side and rear profiles show off a crisp, high-roof design maximizing interior headroom, complemented by premium chrome door handles, aerodynamic window visors, "e-POWER" badging, and multi-spoke dark metallic alloy wheels wrapped in durable Dunlop rubber.
Inside, the Medalist package transforms the cabin into an upscale, comfortable environment that defies the vehicle's compact exterior dimensions. The seating layout features two-tone premium upholstery combining supple black leatherette side bolsters with breathable, patterned brown fabric center inserts. The driver-centric cockpit houses a sporty, flat-bottom leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel and an intuitive center stack featuring a glossy piano-black multimedia interface alongside a distinctive circular automatic climate control panel. Space optimization is remarkable; the rear passenger area offers executive-level legroom, while lifting the rear boot floor reveals a custom-molded styrofoam organizer bay that neatly holds the auxiliary 12V battery, a heavy-duty towing eyelet, and an emergency tire repair kit.
Mechanically, the Note e-Power features an innovative engineering layout that sets it completely apart from traditional hybrids. Under the hood sits a highly optimized 1,200\,\text{cc} (1.2\text{L}) inline 3-cylinder petrol engine coupled directly to an integrated generator, an inverter, and an electric traction motor derived straight from Nissan’s full-EV technology. In this series hybrid configuration, the 1.2\text{L} petrol engine never actually drives the physical wheels; instead, it functions purely as an on-board, ultra-efficient generator to supply electricity to a compact lithium-ion battery or send power straight to the electric motor. This gives the driver the instantaneous torque, seamless acceleration, and silent operations of a pure electric vehicle, without ever experiencing any range anxiety or needing to plug into a wall charging station.
Ultimately, the 2019 Nissan Note Medalist e-Power achieves success because it refuses to limit its appeal to just one specific automotive niche. It doesn't sacrifice cabin comfort to save fuel, nor does it drop upscale design details in the name of commuter practicality. By merging a premium, high-contrast interior with a brilliant electric hybrid powertrain that maximizes driving range, it stands as an elite, exceptionally well-rounded urban vehicle tailored for the modern eco-conscious driver.
