2017 Nissan Qashqai premium variant spotted testing

The facelifted 2017 Nissan Qashqai has been spotted testing for the first time, in a range-topping form which will rival the Audi Q3 at launch.

We already know that the plush Qashqai will get distinctive and exclusive wheel finishes, so the camouflaged alloys is a giveaway that we’ve caught the upcoming upmarket variant, expected to be badged Tekna+, testing ahead of its launch. It’s also expected to get unique trim parts and a carbon-fibre wheel arch extensions.

2017 Nissan Qashqai facelift revealed

Nissan has already confirmed that the Qashqai would feature the brand’s Propilot autonomous tech, which allows single-lane autonomy. This tech is due to be joined in 2018 by an update to Propilot which allows multi-lane autonomy, although this will more likely feature on Japanese models first, before spreading to other markets.

The technology is likely to be only available on higher-spec models with features such as blind spot assist, around view monitor and automatic parking, so expect it to feature on high-spec Tekna cars and above. Depending on Nissan’s strategy with the Tekna+ though, it could be reserved for this model to push people into the range-topper. 

Despite last year’s uncertainty about Nissan’s Sunderland plant building the best-seller, production is confirmed to remain there, alongside its Nissan Juke and Nissan X-Trail SUV siblings.

Nissan hopes that the Qashqai will continue its winning streak as the best-selling SUV in the UK; it achieved this in 2016 with 62,682 registered across the year, although ever fiercer competition, such as the Seat Ateca, threaten its position as the fifth best-seller overall.

A Nissan spokesman couldn’t give any further details, but Nissan confirmed at last year’s show that the car will come this year. Engines are expected to be tweaked for efficiency and to lower emissions, but other than this, should stay the same as in the current car.

We expect to see it at the Geneva motor show this year, for that reason. Prices aren't expected to rise following Nissan's post-Brexit 1.5% price hikes, so it'll still be competitive with its closest rival, the £17,990 Seat Ateca, although the Tekna+ range-topper is expected to top £30,000. It's expected to arrive in UK showrooms in Autumn.