WITH sexier and more aggressive styling than its hugely popular predecessor, the new, British-built, Nissan Note looks set to increase Nissan's growing success in the small car sector when it goes on sale in the autumn.
And as well as the svelte new looks, top grade versions of the latest Note will come with the kind of innovative, advanced features which have previously only been on offer to prestige and luxury car buyers... not least of which is a rear view camera with its own wash and "blow-dry" function.
But this is no hairdressers' car. It will be the first small hatchback to be available with a package of technologies that would previously only have been seen on more costly premium sector models.
Nissan calls the system its Safety Shield and the package includes a blind spot warning system, lane departure warning and an advanced moving object detection system which combine to deliver a new level of driver assistance in the class.
The new Note, which will be given its world premier at next month's Geneva motor show, will also feature Nissan's acclaimed Around View Monitor (AVM) which uses multiple cameras to provide a "helicopter view" parking aid giving clear visibility around the car. It will also be available with the latest version of the Nissan Connect navigation system.
Designed and developed at the Nissan Technical Centre Europe (NTCE) facilities in the UK and Spain, this latest Note is tailored for European buyers and is due to go into production this summer at the company's Sunderland factory.
Inspired by and remaining close to the style and shape of the Invitation concept car revealed at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, the new European Note's design differs from versions sold in other markets with a unique front end and premium sculpted wing mirrors incorporating the indicator repeaters.
The side of the car is distinguished by a dramatic ‘Squash Line', so called, say the designers, because the angles were inspired by the flight of a fast moving squash ball travelling around a court.
Nissan has also developed a new Dynamic Styling Pack that offers an even more sporty appearance with black detailing around the headlights and grille and larger, more sculpted air intakes in the front and rear bumpers.
Three engine options will be offered when the car goes on sale in the UK - two 1.2 litre, three-cylinder, petrol units with outputs of 80 or 98PS, together with a 90PS, 1.5 litre turbo diesel - with CO outputs from as low as 95g/km. Nissan's intelligent stop-start ignition system is fitted to all models, further boosting efficiency and minimising CO emissions.
Although detailed specifications and prices will not be announced until nearer the new model's launch, Nissan says that three trim grades will be offered initially - Visia, Acenta and Tekna - with even the entry level version offering high levels of technology including a stop-start ignition system, six airbags and cruise control with a speed limiter.
Mid-spec Acenta models will add air-conditioning, Bluetooth connection and rear electric windows, while top grade Tekna models feature the Safety Shield pack, Nissan Connect, Around View Monitor, part leather trim and keyless entry.