Qashqai shows new face

Nissan's compact SUV crossover, the Qashqai, has been spied sporting its first major facelift since its release in 2007.

These latest spy-shots show a heavily disguised front end, hiding an all new front fascia along with a rear end obscuring a new set of rear lights. Although no interior re-fresh is visble in these shots, expect a couple of updates in the cabin when the car is released.

Meanwhile, under the bonnet Nissan will continue to improve their green credentials with a range of more environmentally friendly engines which will take their cues from Nissan's ECO series engines. Expect Continuosly Variable Transmission, a regenerative braking system, improved aerodynamics and eco-driving support to make it onto certain versions of the new crossover SUV.    

The re-designed Qashqai will go on sale in Europe in summer next year with prices starting at around £16,000. Later on in 2010 Nissan will update the seven-seater version of the crossover SUV, the Qashqai+2.