Auto Express was first...

Auto Express was first to break the news of plans for a more practical Qashqai – and now Nissan has released the first official pictures of its new Qashqai+2.

The cross-over compact-MPV offers seven seat practicality to go with the standard model’s impressive dynamics and distinctive looks. Designed in Europe and built in the UK at Nissan’s Sunderland plant, the new model will be unveiled for the first time at the British Motor Show in July.

While design themes remain the same, the Qashqai"s proportions have been changed to allow for the extra space inside. The wheelbase has been extended by 135mm, the overall length has grown by 211mm and the roof height has risen by 38mm. Amazingly, the +2 is unique from the A-pillar backwards.

This makes room inside for a third row of flat folding seats as well as under floor storage areas.

Set to go on sale in October, the seven-seat model will be available alongside the existing five-seat Qashqai. Buyers of both variants have the choice of two petrol and two diesel engines in either two or four-wheel drive form.