The new Qashqai has been out and about showing off its updated styling, enhanced on-board tech, upgraded interior design, plus a new trim level.

The front grille of the Qashqai has been comprehensively updated to create a more striking first impression. It now consists of dozens of high-gloss, three dimensional comma-shaped elements painted in high gloss black paint which appear to float in the space between the lip of the bonnet and the number plate holder.

New headlights bring a sense of purpose and presence, with an even sharper look. Below the main lens the daytime running lights consist of five small lenses which are the same shape as the commas of the main grille. The daytime running lights now encircle the main headlight lens, joining with the thin light above the headlight which is similar to the unit on the previous iteration of Qashqai. The upper daytime running light element becomes the turn indicator when activated and, for the first time, features sequential turning lights front and rear on N-Design and Tekna grade.

At the rear, the red lighting elements now consist of four individual elements which echo the shape of the front grille commas. They appear to float in the lens housing and are now a distinctive shade of red, known as super red, and bring a sense of elevated precision.

A new 18-inch diamond cut alloy wheel is now standard on the mid-grade Qashqai. For the higher grades, there are new 19-inch alloys and a 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheel design. In addition, three new colours have been added to the Qashqai’s palette called Pearl White, Pearl Black and Ocean Deep.

A new addition to the Qashqai line-up is the N-Design grade. On the exterior, the lower body portion below the doors and the wheel arches are body-coloured on N-Design. There are also unique, all-new 20-inch alloy wheels which bring added on-road presence.

For the upper grades, there is a new application of Alcantara on the dashboard, door inserts, door armrests, centre storage console lid and even the knee pads all of which combine to elevate the on-board ambience.

Another new dimension to the elevated life-on-board feeling is the addition of ambient lighting giving 64 different colour options on the N-Connecta, N-Design grades and above.

The upgraded Around View Monitor system now features a 3D function allowing the driver to see the car not only from above, but also select one of eight different external camera view-points to visualise the car from the front, rear, sides or corners to potentially identify any unseen exterior hazards.

Additionally, a feature known as “invisible hood view” allows the driver to see the position of the front wheels as if looking at them from just behind, which enables them to precisely manoeuvre in tight locations, such as multi-story car parks where there are concrete curbs which could damage a wheel.

The refreshed Qashqai is the first vehicle in Nissan’s European range with Google built-in as part of the NissanConnect infotainment system, which makes a near-seamless interaction between a customer’s digital life and their vehicle.

The updated Qashqai comes as standard with Google Maps and, once signed-in, with a personal Google Account drivers can access their favourite locations and points of interest. This reduces the dependence on a mobile phone and cellular phone network. Over-the-air updates ensure the map information is always current.

Google Assistant allows the driver to use their voice for hands-free help on the go. For example, drivers can say “Hey Google” to control the vehicle’s ventilation system, heated seats and windscreen or to navigate to their next destination. Additionally, drivers can make phone calls and listen to audio instructions without taking their eyes off the road.

Drivers also gain access to an ecosystem of apps that are available for download on Google Play. They can conveniently listen to their favourite music, podcasts, audiobooks, and more directly from their vehicle.

The updated Qashqai is now in production at Nissan’s Sunderland Plant in the UK, where more than four million units have been built since the original car was launched in 2007.

Customers can order the new Qashqai now, with UK prices ranging from £30,135 for Acenta Premium to £38,875 for Tekna+ versions.