Nissan Qashqai 360

Nissan has cornered the crossover market with the Qashqai, and this new model is poised to become another best seller. The 360 continues to offer a compelling mix of gadgets and a roomy, comfortable cabin. It may not be as sharp to drive as some rivals and the interior looks old, but the Qashqai is still a fine family car and more desirable than ever.

After five years in dealers, the Qashqai has cemented its place in the UK sales charts. Last year, Nissan shifted more ntec+ models than Ford managed with the entire Mondeo range.

But to make sure it keeps up with the latest contenders in the crossover market, the brand has replaced this most popular trim with a new model called the 360.

Prices for the newcomer will match the ntec+, but the kit list has been bolstered with a new Around View Monitor that uses four wide-angle cameras to give a bird’s-eye view when parking. First seen on the Infiniti EX, this clever system works really well in narrow car parks and makes it easier to avoid pillars and kerbs.

Other distinguishing features of the 360 are 18-inch Onyx alloys and gloss black roof rails. But despite an equipment list that includes climate control, sat-nav and part-leather seats, the dark cabin and drab plastics mean it feels a little tired inside.

Happily, though, on the road the Qashqai feels as comfortable and refined as ever, with strong in-gear pace. So although it’s pricey at just over £23,000, it’s worth the extra.

This stop-start version is also more powerful than a Skoda Yeti GreenLine II, yet it’s more efficient, with CO2 emissions of just 118g/km.