Nissan’s Invitation to city car buyers

Nissan has unveiled its newest compact concept car ahead of the Geneva motor show in March.

The new Micra-based Invitation concept has been designed to combine city-friendly dimensions with SUV-like interior space thanks to its high roofline, with the boxier, roomier body of the car reminiscent of Honda's Jazz city car.

The styling of the Invitation shows clear cues from some other models in the Nissan range, including a Murano-like stretched triangular grille, 370Z-style tail-lights, and a chunky, Juke-like stance.

A production version of the Invitation concept is expected to replace the Europe-focused Note hatchback, sitting between the entry-level Micra and the rugged looking Juke micro SUV. 

No details on the drivetrains have been made public, however Nissan says the most efficient model - possibly powered by a new three-cylinder 1.0-litre petrol engine - will emit less than 100g/km of CO2, translating to a fuel use rating of about 3.5L/100km.

While the name of the concept car may seem odd, Nissan product planner Francois Bancon claims it's all about the interior space of the car.

"The name we have given to this concept is self-explanatory. It is designed to be inviting thanks to its sensuous exterior design and generous and comfortable interior space, cleverly packaged within compact overall dimensions," Bancon said.

Nissan Australia says it's possible that the car could be considered as a replacement for the slow-selling Tiida city car, slotting in between the Micra and the upcoming Pulsar small hatch, which will compete against the Ford Focus, Mazda3, Holden Cruze and VW Golf.

However, company spokesman Jeff Fisher told Drive that the MPV-style body of the Invitation, which is popular in Europe but is not currently addressed by any car on sale in Australia (apart from the Kia Rondo7 at a pinch) would take some selling in Australia.

"It's possible it could fit between Micra and Pulsar, but whether we'd want it is another question," Fisher says.

"For this style of car there is no clearly defined segment in Australia right now. The volumes would be tiny, and we'd have to actually create a segment."

The Invitation will be unveiled at the Geneva motor show in March.