The all-new compact SUV is called the Qashqai, pronounced "cash-ki", and Nissan say getting the name used correctly will be the most difficult obstacle in their sales drive. It is being built alongside the Micra in Sunderland, which now has the most productive car assembly plant outside Japan.

The Qashqai is a cross-over type vehicle designed with European market trends in mind and is an alternative to the normal car format.

Nissan see it as a cross between the quality of the VW Golf and the space of the Toyota RAV4, and it must be said Nissan have gone a long way to achieving their goal, offering customers an attractively priced alternative to the two benchmark vehicles.

A strong external appearance and a high driving position will please the growing number of drivers who have tired of the saloon and hatchback designs.

More space and versatility is now the order of the day and the Qashqai does not disappoint. The seats are well spaced and the driver gets lots of room. Legroom in the rear is good and, with easy seat folding, there is plenty of extra luggage space.

The line-up of engines starts with the 1.6-litre petrol 115bhp output in SE trim. This model is priced at Euro23,995 and will be the best seller with 16" alloy wheels, six airbags, front fog lamps, drive computer, Bluetooth hands-free phone kit, keyless entry, rain-sensing wipers, remote audio and computer switches on the steering wheel, four electric windows, airconditioned glove box and front and rear armrests.

This is a good line-up of standard features and the SVE trim gets cruise control, dual zone air-conditioning, 17" alloys, a panoramic glass roof and folding side mirrors.

There is also a 1.5-litre 106bhp diesel engine, which sells at Euro26,695 in the SE trim and will be the second biggest seller.

This is a highly economical engine which Nissan shares with Renault. In June, there will be two-litre petrol and diesel engines with the option of fourwheel drive and CVT transmission for petrol and automatic for diesel.

The two-litre petrol puts out 140bhp and the two-litre diesel 150bhp. The SVE luxury trim versions cost about Euro2,500 extra. Satellite navigation and reversing camera are optional extras on the SVE trim level for Euro3,000.