The 2014 Nissan Dualis has been spotted hot-weather testing in southern Europe in thinly layered camouflage, allowing our illustrator to create a realistic preview of next-generation tall-riding hatchback.
Whether you view the Dualis – known as Qashqai in Europe – as a big hatch or a compact SUV, this has been a hugely popular vehicle for Nissan since the vehicle was released in 2007.
The Nissan Dualis will adopt a slightly more aggressive exterior design, the Japanese company has promised.
The details that can be seen at the front – such as the larger headlights and broader grille – suggest some design influence will come from the 2012 Nissan Hi-Cross concept, though that show car was also meant to be a pointer to the next Nissan X-Trail that will share the Dualis's platform and is expected to move away from its traditional off-roader styling.
Petrol and diesel engine options will again be offered. A 1.6-litre turbo diesel developed by alliance partner Renault is expected to be available in two states of tune, while a 1.2-litre turbo is rumoured to be replacing the non-boosted 1.6-litre petrol in Europe.
A normally aspirated 2.0-litre may well continue in markets such as Australia.
Buyers will again have a choice of front- or all-wheel-drive versions of the Nissan Dualis, while for those looking for extra performance a Nismo model is also anticipated.
European speculation, however, suggests the Dualis +2 seven-seater variant will be dropped for the new range.
The new Nissan Dualis/Quasqai is expected to be unveiled before the end of 2013.
