The Nissan Qashqai was originally launched in 2007 and has been kept up-to-date with N-Tec editions, limited editions, a facelift, as well as an expanded ‘+2′ configuration over the years. The Qashqai range offers plenty of choice, from the engines, transmissions and driven wheels, to the specification and number of seats, all of which have made it an endearing package for over 20 000 South African buyers to-date. The second-generation Nissan Qashqai shakes these ingredients up in every area.
Dramatic new styling lends the new Qashqai a far more sporting and upmarket look. The compact dimensions have been retained, but overall length is up by 47 mm, width by 20 mm and height has been reduced by 15 mm, giving the car a more aggressive stance. Defining features include the ‘V-motion’ grille, which extends over the bonnet and across the shoulder, along with brawny front fenders and wheel arches. LED daytime running lights are standard on all derivatives and LED tail-lamps wrap around the rear corners and continue into the tailgate. The car’s side profile is dominated by 19-inch alloy wheels on the range-topping 1.6 dCi, or 17-inch for all but the entry-level 1.2 DIG-T that rolls on 16-inch items.
Like the exterior design, the interior has moved more upmarket in terms of quality materials and new technology. A full-colour on-board computer is positioned between two recessed dials, with chrome accents and ambient lighting around the centre console, together with numerous gloss black inserts that add a touch of class to the cabin.
Comfort and convenience features include air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, Hill Start Assist (HSA), cruise control, automatically activated headlights and wipers, as well as an infotainment system with 7-inch screen on the Acenta specification models. Additional highlights include a new Around View Monitor (AVM) with four colour cameras and NissanConnect, which brings smartphone integration and support for downloadable applications.
The Qashqai continues to offer enough space for five occupants (there is no 7-seater available) and, despite the reduced overall height, there is actually 10 mm of additional headroom within the cabin. Luggage capacity has also increased slightly from 410-litres to 430-litres. An electrically operated parking brake has freed up space for additional cup-holders between the front seats, with a large glovebox and several storage bins adding to car’s practical appeal.
The new levels of technology have not been limited to the comfort and convenience features, but extend to the engine line-up too. A new 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine replaces the previous naturally aspirated 1.6-litre unit. The 1.2 DIG-T engine delivers 85 kW and 190 Nm of torque. The downsized power unit has an average fuel consumption of 6.2 l/100km (0.9 l/100km less than the 1.6-litre engine it replaces) and emits 144 g/km of CO2. Other efficiency measures include engine stop/start, a regenerative alternator, and the addition of a 6th ratio to the manual transmission.
The choice of turbocharged diesel engines includes the 1.5- and 1.6-litre dCi. The 1.5-litre diesel is now in its sixth-generation and offers 81 kW and 260 Nm of torque. Nissan claims the 1.5 dCi will sip just 4.2 l/100km and emit CO2 emissions of only 109 g/km, making it the most fuel-efficient choice in the new Qashqai range.
The 1.6 dCi replaces the previous 2.0-litre unit and is the only variant available with Nissan’s ALL-MODE 4×4-i. The 1.6 dCi produces 96 kW (14 kW less than before) and 320 Nm of torque, but fuel consumption over its outgoing equivalent has been dramatically reduced, dropping from 7.0 l/100km to 5.3 l/100km when equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission.
The Qashqai 1.6 dCi is also available with Nissan’s Xtronic transmission. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) features stepped ratios to mimic a traditional gearbox under hard acceleration, as well as a sequential manual mode that affords a welcome level of control over the CVT. As CVTs go, this latest example from Nissan operates in an intelligent and less intrusive manner than before.
The new Qashqai offers a more mature driving experience thanks to a cabin that is better insulated from wind and road noise. The ratios of the 6-speed manual transmission are a good match to the power delivery of the 1.5 dCi, which is admirably smoother and more responsive than before.
The compact SUV has always managed to offer slightly more levels of grip than might be expected when it comes to cornering. The Qashqai certainly doesn’t inspire an enthusiastic driving style, however, it still does a fair job thanks to large tyres, a new Chassis Control system that includes torque vectoring, as well as electronically assisted steering that replicates a pleasing sense of weight. A new Chassis Control system also applies the brakes in subtle amounts in order to smooth out any lateral body movement over bumps, however, a new independent multi-link rear suspension brings with it double-piston shocks that control low- and high-speed damping for an overall excellent ride quality.
In terms of safety, the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) has awarded the Qashqai with a rating of 5-stars.
Optional extras for the 1.2 DIG-T and 1.5 dCi models include a Design Pack, Techno Pack, or a combination of both. The Design Pack consists of silver roof rails, privacy glass and 19-inch V-design alloy wheels, while the Techno Pack adds the Around View Monitor, heated door mirrors and the new NissanConnect system.
With a striking new design, a new level of comfort, refinement and efficiency, the Qashqai has never been more appealing. Nissan’s confidence around the Qashqai has rightly been bolstered, a sentiment echoed by Crossover Product Manager at Nissan South Africa, Nancy Reddy: “With the all-new Nissan Qashqai we expect to increase our share of the segment… The new Qashqai is particularly suitable to the needs of South African motorists who need a high-quality vehicle with the practicality and versatility of an SUV matched by the compact proportions and ease of use provided by a compact hatchback.”
| Prices | |
| Nissan Qashqai 1.2 DIG-T Visia | R281 900 |
| Nissan Qashqai 1.2 DIG-T Accenta | R310 100 |
| Nissan Qashqai 1.5 dCi Accenta | R330 500 |
| Nissan Qashqai 1.6 dCi Accenta Xtronic | R382 500 |
| Nissan Qashqai 1.6 dCi Accenta 4×4 | R383 800 |
Prices include a 6-year/150 000km warranty and 5-year/90 000km service plan.
