Sneak view of new Nissan Pathfinder 20 | 12 | 2011

OK, THIS TEASER IMAGE doesn't give you the clearest indication of what the new Pathfinder will look like, but this is the only image Nissan has released.

Nissan's next generation of the Pathfinder SUV will make its world debut at the Detroit motor show in January.

Look carefully and you'll see the teaser pic reveals a sleeker, more aerodynamic exterior, in complete contrast to the rugged looks of the outgoing model.

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But don't have any fears though that the new model will go soft: Nissan stress the newcomer will stay true to the model’s traditional SUV hallmarks.

The new model will also feature something strangely labelled as "thoughtful technology", and a new platform. There will also be "seating for seven and ample cargo room."

On sale at Nissan dealerships across Scotland from next autumn, prices will be confirmed closer to launch. The current entry-level 2.5dCi 190 Acenta Pathfinder costs £32k.

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Jim McGill