Detroit motor show 2008 - Nissan Forum

Is this a pure concept car, or is it the first indication of how a new Serena MPV could look if it was put on sale in Europe around 2010?

As far as Nissan is concerned, it's no more than a design study – but then they would say that. After all, there's few who doubt that Nissan is investigating new styles for an MPV.

Striking features incorporated in the Forum include wide-opening, sliding side doors, and front doors that open by up to 90 degrees.

In addition, the second row of seats swivels round so that occupants can enjoy the built-in entertainment and communications systems face-to-face.

There's no misbehaving in the back, though: chief among the more bizarre gadgets are rear-seat camera monitors that allows adults to keep an eye on the children, and a microphone broadcasting system that allows the driver to make announcements through the car's speakers.

No engine details have been released.