Hey, congrats!
I haven't driven a Note, but I have driven the Canadian market Nissan Micra, which is built on a slightly shortened Versa platform and shares the exact same 1.6L engine, manual transmission, and many interior bits:
I like the Note's styling. And it's got a ridiculous amount of legroom in the back seat, eh?
Also, congrats on getting the manual! You'll be able to blow the EPA ratings out of the water with only basic eco-driving techniques.
The Note's CVT is really good at saving fuel (it's the same transmission as used in the Mitsu Mirage, and I've never driven a non-hybrid transmission that tries so hard to save fuel as that one does). Still, you'll be able to beat it with the manual in city and combined driving for sure. The exception may be on a 100% highway trip, depending on speed/RPM.
Dave, FYI here's the speed vs. RPM chart for the manual Micra. I'm almost certain the Note has the same gearing:
Like many (most?) modern manuals, it revs way higher than it needs to in top gear (in this eco-driver's opinion).
FYI, some Micra fuel economy related threads:
http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...cra-30059.html
http://ecomodder.com/forum/showthrea...ing-28897.html