Nissan Nouveau

THERE is a new Nissan Qashqai and it has suddenly transformed itself into a sharper, less cuddly-looking crossover. The previous version of this UK-made model by Japan's second biggest carmaker had softer and more amorphous styling. But the new car gets more masculine lines for a much sportier stance.

The front end with its "3D" clamshell bonnet and full LED "boomerang" lights is purposeful, while the flanks are distinctively sculpted. Big 19-inch wheels that come as standard equipment also add to the newfound machismo.

All these make the new Qashqai look bigger but it isn't; it is only 50mm longer at 4.38 metres with its 2,646 mm wheelbase extended by 16 mm. It is also 15 mm lower at 1.59 metres high, but Nissan has managed to improve headroom by lowering the hip point.