WAGONS WHEEL OUT
NISSAN QASHQAI TI FROM $37,990 PLUS ON-ROADS
Nissan is adding a range-topping Ti model to the Qashqai range. It adds leather-highlighted seat trims, adaptive cruise control and lane-keep monitoring to the Qashqai N-Tec’s feature list. That list already includes autonomous emergency braking, front and rear parking sensors, lane-departure warning and park-assist. Pricing is competitive at $37,990 before onroads. Upgrades to the model in December focused on sound deadening and more use of soft-touch materials, The Ti has a seven-inch infotainment screen with digital audio, satnav and dual-zone aircon. Smartphone connectivity still isn’t available. The Ti’s 2.0-litre petrol engine (106kW/200Nm) turns a continuously variable transmission. Claimed thirst is 6.9L/100km — expect to use sub-10L. The Qashqai trails the price-fixated Mitsubishi ASX, Mazda CX-3 and Subaru XV as class-leaders in this segment.
MAZDA CX-8 FROM $42,490 PLUS ON-ROADS
Mazda’s wish for a diesel seven-seater will be granted on July 1. The CX-8 is 175mm shorter and 129mm narrower than the petrol-propelled CX-9 but shares the same 2930mm wheelbase. The front-wheel drive Sport grade will cost $42,490 before on-road costs, rising to $46,490 for the AWD version. The range-topper is an AWD Asaki at $61,490. Specification has yet to be announced but Mazda Australia’s policy is to load its cars with the latest active safety aids. The maker confirms the CX-8 will continue its push into “mainstream premium”. The 2.2-litre fourcylinder twin-turbo diesel (140kW/450Nm) is matched to a six-speed auto, as used in the CX-5 mid-size SUV stablemate. Cargo space will be 239L with the third row seats in use or 572L when they’re stowed.
HYUNDAI SANTA FE FROM ABOUT $43,000 PLUS ON-ROADS
The get-in price has increased but so have the size and the level of tech on Hyundai’s new SUV flagship. The V6 front-drive petrol model is gone — for now — so the carryover 2.4-litre petrol will power the cheapest model, while the torquey 2.2-litre diesel will be the most popular choice. Rear legroom has increased and the seats are set higher so the littlies have a better view of the scenery. One-touch folding seats are claimed to give better access to the third row and the rear glass area is bigger to make the rearmost pews less claustrophobic. Safety gets a comprehensive upgrade, with innovations such as a rear occupant alert to make sure kids and pets aren’t accidentally locked in. Another highlight is “safety exit assist” which prevents kids from opening a door into the passing traffic.