Geneva Motor Show 2015: Renault reveals Qashqai-based Kadjar crossover

Renault has revealed its new Kadjar crossover at the Geneva Motor Show. Based on the impressive new Qashqai, Renault's own version will go on sale here this autumn with prices starting at around £18,000.

According to Renault, the unusual name is inspired by the word ‘quad’ – to highlight the fact this a four-wheeled vehicle, while the 'jar' bit comes from the French words ‘agile’ and ‘jaillir’ to represent agility.

Renault hasn't had a larger crossover in the UK since the much maligned Koleos - a car based on the previous Nissan X-Trail - was discontinued. But with the success of the Captur, Renault has confidence that the Kadjar will be more popular.

The fact it's based on the excellent Nissan Qashqai gives it a head start of course. That styling follows on from the Captur with similar smooth and clean lines. With a large Renault badge, flowing grille design and c-shaped LED daytime running strips in the headlights, the Kadjar is certainly distinctive.

It will be available with standard front-wheel drive while higher spec models will come with an on-demand four-wheel drive system. Like all good crossovers, the Kadjar comes with skid plates under the front and back bumpers along with a stainless steel boot sill guard.

There's no official word on the engine line-up yet, but the Kadjar will get the same 1.5-litre and 1.6-litre dCi diesels as the Qashqai along with 1.2-litre petrol engine. Fitted in the Nissan, the impressive 1.5 dCi averages more than 70mpg according to the official figures and emits just 99g/km so expect the same in the Kadjar.

The Kadjar will be available with a panoramic glass roof plus it will feature Renault's R-Link 2 multimedia system which includes navigation, Bluetooth plus various apps that can be used on the move.