Nissan reveals facelifted Qashqai 07 | 03 | 2017

NISSAN UNVEILED ITS facelifted Qashqai at the Geneva Motor Show today as it bids to rise to the challenge being thrown down by the likes of the Kia Sportage, Seat Ateca, and VW Tiguan. The updated model is expected to go on-sale at Scottish dealerships in July, with first deliveries in the autumn. (Related: Chris Hoy — My amazing Le Mans 24-Hours debut with Nissan)

The 2017 Qashqai gets autonomous driving tech called ProPILOT; by the end of the year, the Qashqai will have the ability to steer, accelerate and brake itself in a single lane on motorways. It also gets a new range-topping trim, and more aggressive front end.

According to Nissan, such is the rate of autonomous development that the Qashqai will be able to change lanes by itself next year, and by 2020 it will be able to navigate through junctions.

Since its launch in 2006, the crossover SUV has been something of a global sensation; more than 230,000 examples of the Qashqai were sold in Europe alone in 2016.

The interior of the 2017 model now gets a new steering wheel with updated multi-function controls, plus a new-look infotainment system. (Related: Motability award for Scots Nissan dealership)

There’s also a new range-topping Tekna+ trim level, aimed directly at the growing number of premium buyers. It gets more luxurious materials around the centre controls, Nappa leather seats and new alloys. The upgraded model will be a rival for the likes of the Audi Q3 and BMW X1.

The new 2017 facelifted model will continue to use the current range of powerplants. While the entry-level will get the 1.2-litre petrol, there’s also a 1.6-litre petrol and two diesels, 1.5 and 1.6-litres.

Nissan has also enhanced the safety aspects of the latest Qashqai, with a rear cross traffic alert to help while reversing, plus pedestrian detection added to the automatic emergency braking.

Nissan has yet to confirm prices, but because of the significant upgrades it’s fair to expect an increase: the range currently starts at £18,795. But given the highly competitive nature of the sector, the price rise will still be enough to keep the Qashqai competitive. Worth highlighting, it’s already more expensive than the likes of the Sportage and Ateca.

Related: New Nissan Qashqai rival from Mitsubishi

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Jim McGill