New Nissan Qashqai confirmed for Australia in early 2022

The new 2022 Nissan Qashqai will launch in Australia early next year, the brand's local arm has confirmed.

"The all-new Qashqai broke cover globally in early 2021. Immediately after its reveal, we saw Australian customers eagerly awaiting its local introduction. I am thrilled to confirm that the all-new Nissan Qashqai will be launched in Australia in early 2022 – we can’t wait," said Adam Paterson, Nissan Australia managing director.

Unveiled earlier this year, the third generation of the brand's popular small SUV benefits from sharper styling, an overhauled tech-laden cabin, and new advanced driver-assistance technologies.

European buyers have a choice of 1.3-litre mild-hybrid turbo-petrol or E-Power 'series' hybrid powertrain options, though the Australian engine range has yet to be confirmed – however, the success of Toyota hybrids locally will likely place the E-Power system high on Nissan Australia's wishlist.

Flagship models in Europe benefit from 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12.3-inch fully-digital instrument cluster.

Pricing for the model will be confirmed closer to the new Qashqai's Australian launch, though expect a moderate price rise over the current model, which starts from $28,590 before on-road costs in ST manual guise ($30,590 with an auto), and $39,090 before on-road costs for the flagship Ti automatic.

"With the launch of the first-generation Nissan Qashqai in 2006, Nissan pioneered the now incredibly popular C-SUV segment globally. Nissan Australia introduced the first-generation Qashqai, badged Dualis, in 2007 and the vehicle quickly became a best-seller in the Nissan range," continued Paterson.

"Since that time, the Nissan Qashqai has become the second best-selling small SUV in Australia. Customers have loved the practicality offered by a small SUV coupled with the striking good looks and convenience features."

The Qashqai will be followed by the next generation of Nissan's large Pathfinder SUV later in 2022, plus a new-generation X-Trail mid-size SUV due in the coming years, and the new Z sports car.