Nissan Invitation concept becomes a production model as the new Nissan Note. It has lost some of its conceptual charm, but still, it’s a very good-looking mini-MPV and rather sophisticated for a global mainstream B-segment car that it is. The car will first launch in Japan with two engines including the new supercharged HR12DDR (DIG-S) and the HR12DE.

As mentioned the Note is a feature-rich car. It comes with a lightweight next-generation XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) for all grades with an Idling Stop System for 2WD, the newly-developed three-cylinder supercharged, direct injection DIG-S engine, and an Around View Monitor (AVM) which is included for the first time in a compact car.

Calling a car a ‘global model’ used to be a dignified way of saying it is cheap and rubbish. Not anymore though. The new Note looks great – what with the ‘Squash Line’ profile, striking head and taillights, and bold front grille – it has a nice interior – spacious, welcoming with a flowing line above the instrument panel, which inspired by ripples in sand, and high quality materials – and it has decent features.

Nissan says the new Note is designed to become  the most user-friendly car in its segment. Pricing and specs for different markets will be announced later.