Nissan Qashqai

At launch the new Qashqai comes with a single engine choice – a 1.3-litre petrol in two power outputs and with the option of front- or all-wheel drive and a manual or automatic gearbox, depending on the version. All get mild hybrid assistance, which basically expands the range of the start-stop system and offers a small electric boost to the engine, though it can’t power the car on battery power alone. Good news? Whichever version you choose the emissions and fuel consumption are pretty much the same, so you can choose the model you want without having to go down an engine grade just to hit an emissions number. This is an important consideration for the company drivers, who make up over half of Qashqai buyers.

For those who want more electrification the e-Power version coming later revives so-called range extender hybrid technology where the car operates more or less as an EV and the onboard petrol engine is only there to charge the battery, not power the wheels. We haven’t had any numbers yet but you can expect running costs to be more in line with a plug-in hybrid, and therefore friendlier still on Benefit In Kind and other costs.

The Qashqai’s enduring popularity means strong resale values, which helps keep monthly payments low if you’re running it on finance. Pricing also looks pretty reasonable for the equipment you get, with the vast majority of buyers opting for the top two trim levels with all the kit.