ON THE ROAD: THE Sunderland-built Nissan Note has never been one for the fashion conscious. In fact, I have always regarded it as a bit fuddy-duddy.

So I was pleasantly surprised when the latest model turned up on my drive.

Sure, it’s no design classic, but it’s certainly far easier on the eye than older interpretations.

The small MPV for people who value substance over style has added a little flair.

The Note has always driven well and while the 1.2, 79bhp, petrol engine needs to be worked to get the best out of it, progression is pretty assured.

Easy to manoeuvre, it will weave in and out of city centre traffic with ease.

The only real downside is it’s a little uncultured – the thrum of the engine something that took a while to get used to.

The Northern Echo:

ON THE INSIDE: THE Note’s interior is more functional than fun. There’s a lot of black plastic, but the layout at least makes sense. You’re never far away from the things that you need and the overall-quality is good.

The cabin is light and airy thanks to its boxy design and the seating is supportive.

WHAT DO YOU GET: STANDARD equipment includes rear view camera, NissanConnect with 5.8ins touch screen navigation, DAB and internet radio with six speakers, front fog lights, auto headlights, electrically adjustable door mirrors, stop-start system and eco drive mode.

In addition, there’s climate control, sliding rear bench, heated exterior mirrors, front and rear power windows, leather covered steering wheel, 60:40 split folding seats, remote keyless entry, 16ins alloys, carbon look bumper, rear privacy glass and black bezel headlamps.

The Northern Echo:

HOW PRACTICAL IS IT: THE Note scores highly on interior space. Five can sit in comfort and even for the longer legged out there, moving the front seats back does little to impinge on the comfort of those behind.

There’s 325 litres of boot space, increasing to 411 if you move the bench seat all the way forwards.

Fold the seats down and you can carry most loads with ease, given the 1,495 litres of room to hand.

RUNNING COSTS: NISSAN say it’s possible to get around 60mpg on the combined cycle. Around town we managed closer to 45mpg. CO2 emissions are 109g/km.

VERDICT: AS practical as they get and now better looking.

ALTERNATIVES: HONDA Jazz, Ford Fiesta