Nissan promises an innovative new look for the second-generation Qashqai compact crossover – the automaker’s top-selling model in Europe – when the replacement debuts early next year. Nissan hinted at its future plans for the crossover segment with the Resonance concept that debuted at the Detroit auto show in January. Nissan says the Resonance “is meant to be provocative, energetic and engaging – even polarizing. Its edgy yet sophisticated design provides a clear, exciting view into the future of crossover innovation.”
The car will be built on Nissan’s new Common Module Family (CMF) platform that will underpin the majority of compacts sold in Europe and elsewhere by the Japanese automaker as well as alliance partner, Renault. The new Qashqai will be larger than the first-generation model and the new car will be more aerodynamic than the current model to help further improve its CO2 figures. Even with its new design, increased size and performance improvements, Nissan could struggle to maintain its dominance in the segment which is being lead by the new Honda CR-V, Ford Kuga and Mazda CX-5.
