BIGGER AND BETTER
Compact SUV completes a wide-ranging revamp of Nissan’s local line-up
Nissan’s drastic makeover has continued with the arrival of a new Qashqai. The latest version of the compact SUV, which shares underpinnings with the recently updated X-Trail, brings fresh styling, larger dimensions and the latest driver assistance tech.
Pitched at young families and empty nesters, the four-tier Qashqai range is priced from about $37,000 to $51,000 drive-away.
All versions are powered by a 1.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that makes a healthy 110kW and 250Nm. The turbo drives the front wheels via a continuously variable auto.
A hybrid version will join the line-up later in the year.
Nissan won’t offer all-wheel-drive versions sold overseas, as most local customers opt for 2WD. The company says buyers looking for allwheel-drive tend to gravitate to its larger XTrail and Pathfinder.
The Qashqai is built on a new platform that is bigger in every dimension.
More space between the front and rear wheels translates to a roomier cabin, while a wider stance aids stability and helps improve ride comfort.
A prominent chrome V-shaped grille, floating roofline and sharp LED lighting help the Qashqai stand out from the crowd.
The base ST version is priced from about $37,000. It’s a fairly basic proposition, with 17inch alloy wheels, manually adjustable cloth seats and a plastic flat-bottomed steering wheel.
The ST’s eight-inch central touchscreen is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the driver display is a mix of analog dials and a small digital readout.
Both rows have a pair of USB charging points.
The circa-$41,500 ST+ grade ups the ante with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and satnav. It also scores 18-inch alloy wheels and LED fog lights.
The ST-L costs about $46,000 and delivers 19-inch alloy wheels, matrix LED headlights, heated, leather-accented front seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless device charger and ambient lighting.
The top-shelf Ti variant priced from about $51,000 adds luxe items such as a panoramic sunroof, quilted leather seats, a head-up display and a fully-digital 12.3-inch driver display. A hands-free tailgate and massaging front seats are also included.
All models have a wide range of active driver aids.
The Qashqai will automatically hit the brakes if it detects a potential collision with a car, pedestrian or cyclist.
It’ll warn you if you are wandering out of your lane and sound the alarm if a car is in your blind spot or approaching from the side as you reverse.
ST-L and Ti grades also have lane-keeping assistance that will steer you back into the centre of your lane if it detects the car wandering.
We sampled both the ST-L and Ti grades. Both had immaculately presented cabins with premium materials used throughout. Forward vision is excellent and the rear seat room is above average for its class.
Nissan claims the rear doors open wider than before, making it easier to load kids in and out of the second row. The boot is also also generously proportioned.
On the road the Qashqai has made a big leap forward.
Its small turbo engine provides plenty of grunt with a healthy dose of torque delivered low in the rev range. There can be a slight hesitation on takeoff as the stop-start system re-engages, though.
The CVT auto is one of the better examples, helping to keep the engine humming along in the sweet spot.
Nissan has tuned the suspension to provide good control and responsive handling while keeping the car composed and comfortable over pockmarked and uneven city streets.
It’s quiet, too, with most of the engine noise and tyre roar kept at bay.
Well weighted and direct steering inspires confidence.
Claimed fuel use of 6.1L/100km is excellent but it needs premium unleaded petrol.
Nissan covers its vehicles with a five-year/ unlimited km warranty and capped price servicing is on the expensive side at $2916 over five years.
VERDICT
Impressive all-rounder that combines quality cabin finishes with an engaging drive.