The all-new Nissan Note has been revealed ahead of its global debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

The dynamically-styled B-segment contender will be fitted with safety technology never before seen in a car of this type, including blind spot warning, lane departure warning and `moving object detection' systems, the latter of which warns the driver if something should start moving behind their reversing Note. Collectively Nissan calls the new technology Safety Shield.

Three trim levels will be available, affecting the level of standard equipment and also the styling, which varies from relatively conservative to surprisingly aggressive. The range will run from Visia up to Acenta and then Tekna at the top.

All models will feature stop-start ignition systems, six airbags and cruise control with a speed limiter. Acenta models add air-conditioning, Bluetooth and rear electric windows, while Tekna models feature the Safety Shield, Nissan Connect online functions, the clever 360-degree Around View Monitor parking aid, part leather trim and keyless entry.

The two 1198cc three-cylinder petrol engines are new to the Note, with a choice of either a normally-aspirated 79bhp version capable of 60mpg with emissions of 109/km, or a 97bhp supercharged option with more torque and better efficiency, rated at nearly 66mpg and 99g/km of CO2.

The latter engine is particularly clever in that the supercharger can disconnect from the combustion cycle on gentle throttle inputs, reducing friction when the engine has chance to be most efficient.

At urban cruising speeds it makes a big difference to its efficiency if used correctly. Both engines are fitted with a counterbalancing element that reduces the vibration inherent in three-cylinder engines.

A 1.5-litre 89bhp diesel will also be produced, with emissions down to 95g/km.

Much of the new Note has been designed specifically for European tastes after extensive research, according to Nissan. Two new `eco meters' are displayed on the instrument cluster; one linked to throttle input and the other to overall efficiency for the current trip.

Prices are yet to be confirmed but will be released closer to the car's expected on-sale date in the autumn.