The all-new Qashqai is the first model in Europe to use the Alliance CMF-C platform, which Nissan says represents a state-of-the-art automotive structure and technology architecture.

Central to the engineering concept was to retain the current Qashqai's proportions, which means it can comfortably navigates urban roads, while also giving excellent interior space. The design also incorporates more lightweight material, as well as advanced stamping and welding techniques to increase strength but to also reduce weight. For the first time, the rear hatchback door on the Qashqai is now made of a composite material, which saves 2.6kg.

The use of Nissan's Ultra High Strength Steel application (UHSS) has increased by 50% in the structure of the new Qashqai. This ensures the highest possible tensile strength in the body structure where it is needed, as part of the crash structure, for example, but without a significant weight penalty. Traditionally, higher tensile strength materials pose problems in welding or joining to other parts of the structure. With the Qashqai's body in white, structural bonding has been used to form a high strength reinforcement and bond where the A-, B- and C-pillars join the roof and floor pan.

The front and rear doors, front wings and hood, are all now made of aluminium, which offers a weight-saving, when taken all together, of 21kg over the out-going Qashqai's body in white.

The base structure of the CMF-C platform has been updated to a more homogenous shape, in order to better transmit an impact through the structure. This will have the effect of the structure absorbing the energy more effectively in the crumple zones, reducing the potential load transmitted to the occupants in the event of an accident.

The net advantage for customers, thanks to the advanced manufacturing techniques, is that the overall body in white is lighter by 60kg and 41% stiffer than the out-going model. Nissan says this translates to refinement, ride comfort and driving response from a higher segment, plus exceptional security in the event of an accident, as well as having benefits to the car's overall efficiency.

Thanks to the CMF-C platform, the new Qashqai has an updated Macpherson strut set-up at the front and at the rear. For two-wheel drive Qashqai specified up to and including 19" wheels, rear suspension is a torsion beam configuration. For 20" wheels and all-wheel drive versions, it will be equipped with an advanced multi-link set-up. The power-steering set-up has also been upgraded, offering improved response, better feeling around the central part of the steering range and reduced friction.

The technical advances made to this hugely popular car, including the use of more aluminium and UHSS will pose some challenges to bodyshops who will need to consult the latest manufacturer’s repair methods in order to ensure a safe high quality repair.