The car that paved the way
It hardly seems credible that it was 10 years and two generations ago that Nissan introduced the Sunderland-built Qasqhai-the model that no one could ever spell correctly.
It paved the way for a whole generation of similar vehicles and a new crossover class was created - a family hatchback with the qualities of an SUV.
It manages to perform both roles well and delivers a decent enough driving experience with plenty of space for a family and their assorted clutter, despite its relatively diminutive dimensions.
The free-revving dCi 1108bhp two-wheel drive model we had on test wasn’t as fuel efficient as expected, returning 47.7mpg against the official 70.6mpg and the gears needed to be worked to get the most out of the 1.5-litre engine, but there were no other complaints and it is quiet - especially when idling.
Ours was a Tekna - the highest of the five trims. All have cruise control, daytime running lights, Bluetooth, front and rear parking sensors and auto high beam.
Move up the scale and add automatic lights and wipers, the seven-inch touchscreen navigation and entertainment system with smart apps, 360-degree reversing camera, panoramic roof, heated leather seats and self parking .
Much of our driving was in the Lake District, along winding roads and up steep hills. Handling was good - especially around corners, the speed-sensitivepower steering is weigh ty and driving through crowded streets is easy enough-especiallywith the parking sensors, cameras and park assist.
Navigating around the cockpit causes no problems with the most-used controls readily to hand.
And staying with navigation, the Qashqai, in common with other Nissans has one of the most easy-to-use systems there is.
Our test car came priced at £28,325 which included £450 for the panoramic roof and £495 for interior trim.
Nissan has just revealed details of the all-new Qashqai that goes on sale later this summer and which will ‘focus on a contemporary new exterior design, higher levels of interior quality and improved driving performance’.