A few weeks ago we brought you a test on the Nissan Murano luxury SUV. Following in its footsteps in size at least, is the Nissan Qashqai n-tec, of which just 200 will be available. Smaller and more economical, the Qashqai n-tec continues the Qashqai’s combination of practicality and convenience, but comes with a styling makeover. Nissan’s decision to introduce the limited edition n-tec model stems from the enthusiastic welcome the Qashqai received upon its launch in August 2007 and the continued sales success since, with South Africa boasting over 4 500 Qashqai owners.

Interior
The interior of the standard specification Qashqai n-tec remains unchanged from that of the 2.0 Accentia model. This means cloth seats, a leather covered steering wheel, and convenience functions such as, rain sensing wipers; dual zone climate control; Bluetooth handsfree integration; electrically operated windows; onboard computer; outside temperature display; height adjustable headlights and more.

However, should you specify the optional accessories package your n-tec will also come with leather seats and a ‘infotainment centre’. The leather seats are comfortable – although adjusting the lumbar support is near impossible as the control is located parallel to the B-pillar. A nice touch is the white stitching, as well as ‘Qashqai’ embroidered into the backrests of the front seats.

Unfortunately our experience with the infotainment system was not a pleasant one. It’s an aftermarket unit that looks it. The sat-nav didn’t work thanks to a software error and we just didn’t find it an intuitive system to live with. Of concern, is that fact that you can watch TV while the car is in motion – a point that must surely detract from the 5-star Euro-NCAP safety rating and something that should be prevented by automatically turning off the function when the car travels over 5 or 10 km/h. These accessories also come at a price, R17 500 to be exact – Nissan, we suggest you ditch the infotainment and add value with a sunroof instead.

Apart from this isolated niggle, we found the Qashqai offered a very likeable cabin. The air-conditioning works well, there’s enough storage space (410-litres in the boot), passengers have adequate head and legroom, while interior noise levels are acceptable despite the large 18-inch tyres. The styling of the dashboard is uncluttered, almost minimalist in its appeal and the plastics are well put together.

Exterior
It’s on the outside that the Qashqai n-tec sets itself apart from its stablemates. Enhancements include brushed aluminium roof rails, door handles and front grille, tinted glass for the rear windows and a set of 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. The Qashqai was not a bad looking compact-SUV to begin with and we think the cosmetic changes to the n-tec make it one of the best lookers in its class.

The Drive
The front-wheel-drive Qashqai n-tec surprised us in the handling department. The ride is firm, yet comfortable, and steering is accurate and well weighted, delivering a driving experience as confident as the car looks. With a bigger set of running shoes fitted, the Qashqai is up to the task of hustling through the corners and does so without giving the driver any surprises. A light clutch action, automatically adjustable speed-sensitive powersteering and elevated seating position over that of conventional sedans, makes the Qashqai an easy car to live with around town – where it’ll spend most of its time. Between towns or cities the n-tec cruises comfortably, with low interior noise levels and enough grunt to keep a comfortable cruising speed. Admittedly, the short section of dirt road we covered was in fairly good condition. Nevertheless, the n-tec tracked well, navigated one or two corrugations without a fuss and the interior and luggage areas remained dust free.

Performance
Driven by a 2,0-litre petrol engine with 102 kW and 198 N.m of torque, the Qashqai performs adequately. With power being delivered relatively high up the rev range – peak torque is reached at 4 400 rpm and peak power at 5 200 rpm – one tends to swap cogs to maintain speed on our country roads. Around town however, the Qashqai n-tec rolls along without much effort and will reach 100 km/from pull-away in 10.2 seconds. For what it’s worth, top speed is 192 km/h.

What we like…

• Good looks.
• An appealing vehicle for everyday town driving, capable of exploring dirt roads on the weekends.

What we would like…

• Give us the standard radio/cd and the choice of a sunroof, instead of the aftermarket ‘infotainment’ system.