ENGINES – You get a modest range of engines to choose from. All are smooth, refined and economical. Urban drivers will like the sophisticated petrol units, while anyone considering racking up the miles or towing should consider the gutsy diesel models.

EXTERIOR – More high-rise hatchback than all-out people carrier, the Qashqai’s exterior looks streamlined in profile and purposeful when viewed head-on. For many the Nissan offers the best of both worlds: part SUV, part MPV.

INTERIOR – Pleasingly durable materials in the Nissan’s cabin should ensure it can take the knocks of a busy family. Fit and finish is first rate and equal to cars costing twice as much.

DRIVING – Flexible engines and a supple ride add up to a pleasing experience. Keen drivers won’t be disappointed, either. The lofty driving position ensures good fore and aft visibility; while the car’s underlying agility is most obvious when negotiating tight turns in city centre car parks.

OWNERSHIP – With Nissan’s reputation for faultless build quality, you’ve nothing to worry about with the Qashqai. It’s also an easy car to drive, making light work of the school run, commute to work or even the annual driving holiday. Well equipped across the range, you won’t be slumming it wherever you go in it.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR – As with any family-centric car, look out for damaged or soiled cabin trim and more than the odd scuff mark around the boot load lip. A hard life around town could also see kerbed wheels and parking dents, neither of which are desirable for a nearly new car even if the screen price is well below average. Obviously a full, albeit short, service history is a must, as is a vehicle check – any hint of it being stolen, crash repaired or having outstanding finance remaining should have you walking away.

MODEL HISTORY 2007: Nissan launches it new cross between a people carrier and ‘soft-roader’ the Qashqai. Well built, well equipped and practical, it offered buyers a versatile alternative to a conventional family hatchback. Petrol and diesel engines offered, along with manual and auto gearboxes.

REASONS TO BUY – good looks, practical cabin, affordable running costs, reliable, two and four-wheel drive models.

REASONS TO BEWARE – High seating position could be to much for some, neither a proper SUV or MPV.

PICK OF THE RANGE – Qashqai 1.6 Acenta 2WD WHAT TO PAY 2007 07 11,130 2007 57 11,500 2008 08 12,610 Figures relate to showroom prices for cars in A1 condition.