Following a bit of cosmetic surgery, Nissan’s Note has now emerged with a new nose, a reshaped bonnet and a tweaked bumper and headlights.

This family hatchback has a top speed of 102mph and the 1.5 dCi engine that I was driving takes 13.3 seconds to hit 62 mph and returns an excellent 62.8mpg.

Both the 1.4 petrol and the 1.5 diesel engines have been tweaked to boost fuel consumption and reduce emissions gases.

A funky new feature on its predecessor is the Nissan Connect system, a satnav, music and phone system that’ll hook in your iPod, your phone and lead you wherever you need to be, which is standard on top-line Tekna models.

Other features include 16 inch alloys, electronic stability programme and part leather upholstery as standard, rear parking sensors, electric folding door mirrors, part alloy sports pedals, interior chrome detailing and rear privacy glass. You also get a nicely regulated cabin environment thanks to standard climate control air conditioning. Automatic headlamps and wipers – including operation of the rear wiper whenever reverse is engaged in the rain – make for an even more relaxing drive.

The nine-litre glovebox – which can be heated or cooled and which is capable of swallowing up to 12 cans of drink – has a useful slot incorporated into its lid that is ideal for maps.

The Note is not, however, tall-people friendly. My (tall) husband felt he was way too close to the steering wheel having already put the seat back as far as possible.

Presumably this is to allow plenty of space in the back, which is great if you’re less than six foot tall with a family.

There’s also only five gears, despite the feeling it really could do with a sixth.

Factfile

Car: Nissan Note Tekna

Engine: 1.5 DCi

Power: 85bhp

0-62mph: 13.3 seconds

Economy: 62.8mpg

CO2 emissions: 119g/km

Insurance group: 5E