Nissan has replaced the existing 1.2-litre and 1.6-litre petrol engines in the Qashqai with a new 1.3-litre unit.

Available with either 140PS or 160PS, the new engine emits less CO2 emissions and uses less fuel than the ones it replaces.

From November, the 160PS version will also be available linked to an all-new seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), the first time such a system has appeared in a volume Nissan model.

Prices for the new petrol engine start from £19,595 OTR for a Visia 1.3 DIG-T 140. The range-topping Tekna 1.3 DIG-T 160 is available from £28,595 OTR.

Prices for versions fitted with the new DCT transmission will be announced in due course.

In both states of tune, with 17-inch wheels, the car emits 121g/km of CO2 and achieves an average 53.3mpg. With larger 18- or 19-inch wheels, emissions are 130g/km and 49.6mpg.

Cap HPI has awarded a class-leading residual value of 50.1% (36mths/30k miles) on the 1.3 DIG-T 140 Acenta Premium.

Alex Smith, managing director of Nissan Motor GB, said: “The launch of this all-new 1.3-litre unit is the right response to changing market conditions, meeting customer demand for a highly effective petrol engine that delivers outstanding driving performance and fuel efficiency.”

The 1.2 115 PS manual and CVT, and the 1.6 163 PS manual Qashqai are no longer available.

Cost of ownership for fleets operators is reduced thanks to lower maintenance costs over the lifetime of the engine. For example, oil changes have been extended from 12,500miles to 18,000miles.