Geneva 2012: Nissan Invitation concept

This is the Nissan Invitation, a Geneva motor show concept car designed to preview a new small model.

See also: All Geneva motor show 2012 news

The Invitation is a high-roofed, five-door model. Nissan says it will be launched in the UK sometime in 2013, and that it will be sold alongside the Nissan Juke and Nissan Micra in effect, making the Invitation a preview of the next-generation Nissan Note.

As such, the Invitations stance looks familiar although its more pronounced surfacing on its flanks and the stronger shoulder line make it look more dramatic than the simple Note.

Nissan claims the production version of the car will use a lightweight platform, helping to improve its fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions. It claims the greenest variant will dip beneath the 100g/km barrier, taking it into the tax-exempt Band A.

The company also says the concept features an Around View Monitor, the first time it has been seen on a vehicle of this size. It uses cameras to show the driver the full surroundings and is designed to make reversing and parking easier and safer.

The cabin images reveal extensive use of digital displays, including a central infotainment system and a sophisticated-looking ventilation control. These elements are likely to be toned down for the Note traditionally one of the more keenly priced models in Nissans range although the concepts simple, uncluttered dashboard layout looks production-ready.

John McIlroy