Over the years, the Nissan Note has been a popular choice among car buyers looking for a small, compact hatchback that's easy to drive, affordable to run and relatively affordable to buy. The newest one retains all of those qualities, but now brings the added efficiency and improved performance of a new hybrid powertrain.

With its clean lines and sleek design, this new generation Note is certainly a handsome car that's pleasing to look at. The interior has also taken a big step forward, with plenty of modern equipment and amenities like the Intelligent Rearview Mirror, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The availability of black Nappa leather upholstery also lends the cabin a touch more class and comfort.

The Note is powered by Nissan's e-POWER hybrid technology, which marries a 1.2-litre engine to the electric motor. One of the key benefits of this system is that because driving power comes entirely from the electric motor, the 280Nm of torque is always instantly available, making for a much more urgent car when on the go. The light steering and soft suspension also makes for a pleasingly easy and comfortable drive.

The range of safety systems, including High Beam Assist, Intelligent Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning and Intelligent Lane Intervention, also ensure maximum safety for all of the car's occupants.

Being a hybrid, fuel efficiency is clearly important. Driven with car, you can achieve a fuel economy figure of 20km/L, which is pretty good.

All in all, the new generation Nissan Note manages to still deliver on the qualities that has traditionally made it popular - practical, easy-to-drive, and still affordable. The hybrid drivetrain only further enhances the car, and that makes it our Hybrid of the Year.