It’s easy to forget that it was the Nissan Qashqai that started the trend for mainstream family SUVs . In fact – as hard as it is to believe now – it was seen as something of a gamble when it was first introduced back more than 12 years ago.

Today’s second-generation Qashqai builds on the ground-breaking formula of its predecessor, with a range of petrol and diesel engines, manual and automatic gearboxes and two and four-wheel drive. However, it faces stronger competition than ever. Plenty of manufacturers now offer practical and stylish family SUVs that are good to drive as well. Accomplished rivals include the Peugeot 3008, Seat Ateca, and Skoda Karoq, while attractive finance deals can put the sophisticated Volvo XC40 and premium Audi Q3 within reach, too.

So, how does the Nissan Qashqai compare with these cars, and which version should you buy? Read on for everything you need to know, and then head over to our New Car Buying service, where you can get a great discount on the Qashqai and almost on any new car.