The new model enters a market quite unlike that in which its predecessors found themselves. The market is now a lot more competitive, with new entries from Japan, China, Germany and Europe.

To compete, Nissan says it has fitted the new model with a wide range of class-leading features, which include its ProPILOT technology that offers Level 1 autonomy. It is also fitted with Predictive Front Collision Warning and Lane Keep Assist.

Three grades are available, all fitted with Nissan’s 1.3 litre petrol engine – the Qashqai 1.3T Visia MT, the 1.3T Acenta (Xtronic) and the 1.3T Acenta Plus (Xtronic). The engine is a four-cylinder, petrol-turbo engine that offers 110 kW and 250 Nm.

Built on the alliance CMF-C Platform, the-new Nissan Qashqai will also be offered with an e-POWER drivetrain later in 2023. The e-POWER system has an electric motor linked to the driven wheels, with a small petrol engine to generate power and charge the batteries (but not drive the wheels).

Viewed from outside, the new Qashqai has a more muscular and sharper in exterior design, a bigger V-Motion front grille, as well as slim LED matrix headlamps with new ‘boomerang’ daylight running lights that further enhance its imposing stance and presence.

Inside are full Napa leather seats with quilted fronts. The NissanConnect suite of features has also undergone an evolution and now offers a more connected service with the latest in audio technology, connectivity and mobile integration.

Prices (September 2022): 1.3T Visia MT (R568 200), 1.3T Acenta CVT (R639 300), 1.3T Acenta CVT 2-Tone (R644 800) and the 1.3T Acenta PLUS CVT (R670 600).