Next generation Qashqai will be more upmarket and may feature a plug-in hybrid

According to Nissan Executive Vice President, Andy Palmer, the forthcoming model will feature an innovative design - in the lines of the Hi-Cross concept - and will be more upscale than its predecessor. While it will be primarily front-wheel driven, an optional four-wheel drive will be available.

The 2014 Qashqai is rumoured to be powered by a supercharged 1.2-litre petrol that's good for 113bhp and 190Nm of torque.

A 1.6-litre diesel is also on option with emission figures below 100g/km while a plug-in hybrid variant will be on offer in Europe, no earlier than 2015, with CO₂ emissions just under 50g/km.

The crossover will be underpinned by a new modular platform that will be shared on several upcoming medium sized Renault and Nissan cars on top of the next generation X-Trail as well.

The car is expected to grow in size though prices will float around today's value.