Similar in size to an X-Trail, it uses a 2.0-litre direct injection supercharged petrol engine and electric motor, which the carmaker said gives it the performance of a 2.5-litre unit in a similar vehicle. Its continuously variable transmission features two clutches and gives permanent four wheel drive without sacrificing fuel economy. The Hi-Cross can be driven on electricity when used in the city.

Speaking at the press conference today, Andy Palmer, executive vice president of Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., said: ‘Nissan created the crossover segment with Murano and has expanded the genre with top selling cars like Qashqai and Juke. Hi-Cross Concept shows we are not sitting still, resting on our laurels, but exploring ways of cementing our crossover leadership by exploring new ideas.’