With the 2017 Geneva International Motor Show in full swing, Nissan debuted its refreshed Qashqai crossover. A more angular design on the outside is matched by an updated interior that shares Nissan’s current design theme. A slew of new tech features and safety systems joins the two-row crossover as well, making the Qashqai more competitive in the segment.

For U.S. consumers, the Qashqai is a bit foreign – at least in name. Stateside, Nissan calls it the Rogue. Both share the same basic platform, though powertrain options and other differences keep them from being twins. And for help pronouncing the name, Qashqai sounds like “cash-kai.”

Now that you can read the Qashqai name without your mind’s voice stuttering over itself, we can move to Nissan’s changes for 2018. Outside, the Qashqai features a new front fascia with a more angular design and Nissan’s latest iterations of the V-motion grille and boomerang headlights. Rectangular fog lights and heavily stylized faux air inlets comprise the lower bumper. New wheel options span the range from 17 inches to 19 inches. Nissan says the wheels have even been “aerodynamically optimized” to improve fuel efficiency. The wheels, combined with the updated sheet metal, are said to net a class-leading drag coefficient of 0.31.

Inside, the Qashqai’s basic shape hasn’t changed. A new flat-bottom steering wheel replaces the old, uninspired three-spoke steering wheel. New Nappa leather with 3D quilting can be optioned in higher trims. The NissanConnect infotainment system enjoys a new interface and an optional Bose seven-speaker sound system. Engineers also increased the thickness of the rear glass for a quieter cabin.

A slew of active safety systems come with the 2018 Qashqai, including a revised Intelligent Emergency Braking system, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Traffic Sign Recognition, Driver Attention Alert, Intelligent Park Assist, Intelligent Around View Monitor, Blind Spot Warring, and Lane Departure Warning.

Slight changes to the Qashqai’s greasy bits are present, too. Nissan says it reworked the suspension, damping, and steering systems for a more refined drive. The 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel continues unchanged.

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Why It Matters

These updates definitely make a difference with the Qashqai. Between the new front fascia and new steering wheel, the little crossover looks far more upscale and modern. Nissan cites its “extensive customer insight” for the 2018 changes, which are likely to be a home run. Nissan has already sold roughly 2.3 million Qashqais since its introduction in 2007. That’s not a terrible record, by any means. These updates will only help the Qashqai stay competitive in the ever-popular crossover segment.