Nissan has unveiled their entry into the competitive small SUV market, the Qashqai. First seen in 2003 as a show car, the production version bears the same name in Europe and will rival the recently revealed Honda CR-V and Land Rover Freelander 2. Competing in the C-segment, they all offer an alternative to typical hatchback buyers, aiming to follow the pattern set by the Nissan X-Trail SUV, which outsells the Primera in the European D-segment. Like the Opel Antara, styling is divided into dynamic body and rugged base, the belt-line also resembling the larger Nissan Murano.

Two diesel and two petrol engines will be offered, ranging from the 106PS of the 1.5l diesel to a 2.0l petrol producing 140PS. Sales are expected to reach 100,000 units across Europe -with 80% going to first-time Nissan buyers. Key dimensions of the Nissan Qashqai (Dualis in Japan) are: length 4.31m, width 1.78m, height 1.61m.

Related Stories:
Design Review: Nissan Qashqai concept
Design Development: Land Rover Freelander
First Sight: Honda CR-V
New Cars: Opel Antara
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