Is Nissan in danger of releasing a desirable looking mini-MPV? If these images are to be believed the answer would appear to be yes.
Set to be unveiled at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, the Invitation concept is said to preview the company's next mainstream B-segment contender due to be launched in 2013 - i.e. a replacement for the Note.
Taking its styling cues from the Nissan Juke crossover the Invitation is a far more adventurous car with deep bumpers, aggressive lights and a panoramic roof; although how much of that will actually make it to production remains to be seen.
Inside, the Invitation is equally as adventurous with deeply bolstered seats, sharp creases and an uncluttered dashboard.
Nissan is aiming for an ultra-low CO2 target of sub-100g/km so expect to see the three-cylinder 1.2-litre DIG-S engine from the current Micra, although the Note's current engine line-up of 1.4- and 1.6-litre petrol engines and a 1.5-litre diesel should make an appearance too.
The Invitation concept will be loaded with technology such as Nissan's Around View Monitor (AVM) that makes for easier reversing and parallel parking and the Nissan Safety Shield that interacts with the driving environment keeping the driver aware of what is happening around the car. However, if the Invitation is to follow the Note's price point it is unclear whether either of these will feature in a production version.