Before the turbo kicks in at around 1,800rpm, the 1.3-litre turbo feels like it has no power at all. However, the CVT gearbox does help to overcome the engine’s lack of low-down torque. The steering has been recalibrated with quicker gearing, while the electric assistance motor has been moved closer to the rack, which is said to reduce friction and give a more natural response. The new car uses an updated version of the CMF platform seen under the previous model, and the structure is 48 per cent stiffer than before. Combined with a redesigned structure, the new model, like-for-like, is 60kg lighter than before.

The latest model features doors and front wings made from aluminium, plus a composite bootlid. Nissan has made moves to improve its construction, though. While the Qashqai Mk3 is instantly familiar, it’s also more substantial – a neat trick to achieve, because the car has grown just 35mm longer and 32mm wider. Nissan clearly approached the third-generation Qashqai with a simple brief: keep the car’s unmistakable looks, yet at the same time deliver a sharper, more modern shape. In Tekna trim, it’s priced at £33,465 with the auto, plus another £1,145 for our car’s fetching Magnetic Blue paint with contrasting black roof. The Qashqai pictured here is fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox, but we’re comparing it with automatic rivals, so we’re assessing the Qashqai like-for-like.

Qq latest version 2021