It's seven-up for the Qashqai! Here’s the proof that Nissan’s compact SUV is getting in the family way. Our spies have caught this seven-seat version undergoing winter testing – and it will arrive in Nissan showrooms later this year, where it’s set to compete with Citroen’s C-Crosser, Mitsubishi’s Outlander and the Peugeot 4007. Buoyed by the success of the Qashqai, Nissan is keen to expand the range, and this seven-seater is the next logical step. As you can see from the light disguise on this prototype, the seven-seat Qashqai is identical to the five-seater up to the B-pillar. But as it sits on a wheelbase that’s stretched by around 200mm, the newcomer features a longer rear end, with revised quarterlights and a raised roofline to give even more headroom. Behind the second row of seats lies a third row of two chairs, which are spacious enough to accommodate a couple of average-sized adults. But boot space is unlikely to impress with a third row of seats in place – expect only enough room for some squashy bags. Fortunately, the extra seats can be folded away when not in use to increase the load area. Elsewhere, it’s business as usual, and the seven-seater Qashqai will feature the same line-up of engines as the smaller version. That means buyers will get to choose from two petrols – a 115bhp 1.6 and 140bhp 2.0-litre. There will also be two turbodiesels – a 105bhp 1.5 and 150bhp 2.0-litre – plus either front or four-wheel drive.Nissan hasn’t confirmed any prices yet, but the seven-seater model is likely to cost £1,500 more than the standard Qashqai.
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