What's this then?
This is the Nissan Qashqai rival that's actually based on the Qashqai - the new Renault Kadjar. Using the same platform and engine package as the all-conquering Nissan crossover, the Kadjar will also become the first Renault built in China.
Clearly sharing styling cues with the (very successful) Captur compact crossover could benefit the best-selling Renault model, which is hardly surprising give the runaway success of its Nissan cousin.
On a technical level, Renault is talking up the Kadjar's 190mm ground clearance, its optional 19-inch alloy wheels and the car's low-roofed proportions as being key to its appeal, both at the kerbside and in the showroom. Four-wheel drive will be available as an option.
What's the cabin like?
The interior represents a bit if a turnaround for Renault, looking much higher in quality than we've seen before and with a big TFT screen in front of the driver doing most of the instrumental work.
Out back, there's a decent 472-litre boot with a moving floor and 60/40 split-fold rear seats. Renault claims there's an additional 30 litres of storage in the cabin. There are also full-LED headlights, although Renault hasn't given any indication of how much they'll cost as an extra.
And under the bonnet?
No technical details on the engine are given but presumably the 110hp 1.5-litre dCi diesel will be the core model and, as in the Qashqai, it should score a 99g/km CO2 rating.
Neil Briscoe - 2 Feb 2015