Nissan Qashqai - Pictures

As with Nissan’s Note supermini-MPV, the Qashqai has a simple but well laid out cabin. The glovebox is deep, while the materials and general build quality are a step above what the Dodge and Kia can offer.

The 1.5-litre dCi has 104bhp, compared to the 138bhp offered by the Dodge, so the Nissan isn’t as fast. A 148bhp 2.0-litre dCi is available for an extra £1,600, and both versions offer impressive refinement.

With the seats folded, the Qashqai’s total load length is 85mm longer than the Golf’s, although the 410-litre capacity is 115 litres down on the Caliber. The Nissan has a space-saver spare wheel under the boot floor.

Thanks to its lofty suspension, the Qashqai is 136mm taller than the Golf. But it’s only 21mm wider and 111mm longer than the VW, so is easier to manoeuvre around town than the Caliber or Sportage, which are even larger.