Honda unveiled this surprise concept car at the Montreal motor show, which the firm says is designed to make city cars appeal to younger buyers.

The Gear Concept Study Model is meant to make “sub-compact cars practical but fun, customisable, connected and affordable.” Honda describes it as “simple and utilitarian,” and says the car was inspired by fixed-gear bicycles.

The Gear uses styling cues reminiscent of the VW Polo and the Citroen DS3, but with a cab forward shape and very short overhangs. It doesn’t have an interior.

The Gear is purely a concept and it’s unlikely to preview any one future production car. Instead it shows Honda is considering how to make its small cars more youthful than its current offerings.