Encouraged by the sales of the current range-topper Qashqai Tekna, Nissan is looking into the introduction of a more premium and sportier-looking version of the compact crossover.
Said model is expected to be based on the Qashqai Premium Concept, unveiled in Geneva earlier this year, and will attempt to nab buyers of entry level versions of the BMW X1, Audi Q3 and Mercedes-Benz GLA, as well as the upcoming Volvo XC40, according to Autocar magazine.
“The concept was designed to be feasible for production. Now we are working and adapting the authentic materials, like carbon-fiber, Nappa leather and special paint, for a production feature“, said the study’s design manager, Darryl Scriven.
Nissan’s engineers are looking to implement the concept’s 20 mm wider tracks into the production car, which is also expected to get a similar body kit, highlighted by the burnished V-motion grille, lower bumper moldings, carbon fiber extended wheel arches and tweaked lighting units.
Color-wise, the automaker could offer three shades, dark, intermediate and light, with contrasting accents, which will mimic the paint applied to the Qashqai Premium Concept, while inside, expect more premium materials and Nappa leather.
In Geneva, Nissan had also showed a similar conceptual version of the X-Trail, so it is possible that the mid-size SUV may get the same ‘Premium’ treatment as well.
Note: Nissan Qashqai and X-Trail Premium Concepts pictured
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