It has been 2.5 years since the debut of the current third generation of the Nissan Qashqai but the automaker is already working on a facelifted version. A prototype of the SUV was spied testing on public roads with its bodywork partly covered in a camouflage wrap.
Visual updates will most likely be focused on the front end, where the controversial headlights of the outgoing model seem to adopt a more conventional look. Other changes include the larger intakes on the sculpted bumper and the revised V-motion grille with the Nissan emblem positioned lower than before.
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Predictably, the profile seems to be carried over although Nissan has camouflaged the plastic cladding around the wheel arches and on the side sills. At the back, the SUV will likely gain a redesigned rear apron and new LED graphics for the taillights.
The prototype also came with a covered interior, hinting at more updates. The current Qashqai is already available with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9-inch touchscreen in high-spec trims alongside an optional 10.8-inch heads-up display. It is not clear if the facelifted model will come with a revised layout or feature upgraded software with limited changes on the trim and upholstery options.
Powertrain options could be carried over from the current range. After all, the e-Power variant debuted in 2022, making it one of the newer self-charging hybrids on the market. It comprises a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol engine with 156 hp (115 kW / 158 PS) that works as a generator charging the battery and an electric motor with 188 hp (140 kW / 190 PS) that moves the front wheels. Other options in the electrified-only European range include a mild-hybrid 1.3-liter DiG-T engine that is available with either 138 hp (103 kW / 140 PS) or 157 hp (117 kW / 159 PS).
The facelifted Qashqai could arrive as early as 2024, although a 2025 debut would be more in line with the life expectancy of most Nissan models. The SUV will likely remain available in Europe and Australia, as the US equivalent Rogue Sport has been dropped from the range. Rivals include the mechanically-related Renault Austral, as well as the Peugeot 3008, Toyota Corolla Cross, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, Ford Kuga, and more.
According to earlier reports, Nissan is working on fully electric variants of the Juke, Qashqai, and X-Trail which are expected to hit the market between 2025 and 2027. Those are rumored to ride on EV-dedicated architectures so there will be unrelated to the current ICE-powered generations which will likely remain on sale alongside their EV successors for a few years.
