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| The 2010 Nissan Qashqai Range |
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Julian Lurie
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| Nissan's top selling crossover vehicle the Qashqai, launched some four years ago, was the first of its kind: blending SUV styling and particality with teh size and andling line-up is further blostered by the introduction of te 7-seat Qasqai+2 and optional CVT transmission, available only on the Qashqai 2.0-litre petrol model. |
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The front view of the new Qashqai has been given a complete makeover, and there in no way you won't recognise the new model from the previous. The bonnet is all-new, as is the front bumper, wings, grille and headlamps, while the two distinctive raised strakes on the bonnet are longer, and finish closer to the front lip.
Additionally, the front edge of the bonnet where it meets te ead-lamps, is shaped to come over te light, for a more precise finish. The lower bumper area is resaped around the air intake, to optimise airflow to the radiator, with the added benefit of aving a moer purposeful appearance.
The headlamp shape is more aggressive, by being flatter than te existing design, and it now appears to wrap around the front corner of the car. The interior of the lamp design is more technical, with intricate detailing for each of the three elements - low beam, high beam and turn indicator.
The slatted grille on the current Qashqai is now more aggressive looking, with a sportier honeycomb style grille, but retains the centrally mounted Nissan logo, surrounded by the three-sided cromed frame - Nissan's signature grille motif for crossovers. Overall, the new look sould eet the expectations of customers previously driving premium hatchbacks or compact executive cars.
The rear tail-lights are unchanged, but a cleaner lens designe is adopted, with the upper portion, housing the reversing lights and turn indicators being clear, while the lower section with the brake and tail lights is red. Additionally, the stop lamp uses 12 LEDs for maximum clarity.
At the rear, the spolier on the upper portion of the hatchback door has been slightly reprofiled, contributing to an overall reduction in drag. The Qashqai is also equipped with twin roof-tails which add to the robust appeal of the crossover, and giving it a more pronounced SUV look. All 2.0-litre model derivatives, both petrol and diesel, are fitted with the new super looking diamond-cut 18" alloy wheels, wich have already attracted attention on the limited edition Qashqai n-tec. |
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On the inside, the updated Qashqai sports a new, cleaner design to the main dials, to improve clarity and legibility. The two main dials for raod and engine speed feature white increments on a black background, with red needles, and are tastefully surrounded with chrome bezels. Between the two principal dials is a resigned drive computer with white LCD screen to show average fuel comsumption, mileage,time, cruise control and speed limiter settings.
New materials for the interior trim, and low-level mood-lighting, combine to give the cabin of the Qashqai a warmer ambience. Additional storage areas for oddments are dotted around the cabin.
Noise, vibration and harshness is also improved, with the addition of an 'acoustic' windscreeen to reduce the transmission of noise. A change in the window sealing has resulted in a reduction in wind noise around the A-pillar.
The three engine choices are carried over,but have been updated. The two petrol engines produce more torque in a wide band of engine revs, while the excellent 2.0-litre turbo-diesel runs a higher pressure for a smoother and more refined delivery of power.
The new model line-up includes a CVT gearbox option on the 2.0-litre petrol Acenta, while the advanced Nissan All Mode 4x4 drivetrain, which provides a secure vehicle traction in various road conditions, is available for the 2.0-litre dCi engine.
Standard equipment includes ABS brakes with EBD, and 2.0-litre modles add an ESP system, with the natural traction advantages of the All Modes 4x4 on the range-topping Qasqai. Should an accident be unaviodable, a very robust chassis is complemented by a full-house of airbags to minimise occupant injuries. All Qashqai models boast a 5-star EuropNCAP rating for all-round safety levels.
As for specification levels, the Qashqai has all the equipment to support its premium nature. There's a 6-speaker CD/radio with AUX connector for thumping tunes, an integrated Bluetooth system linked-in to the multifunction steering wheel, and on the Qashqai+2, rear privacy glass assists the up-graded air-conditioner to keep te interior cool. Cruise control is available on all the 2.0litre petrol as well as the diesel models.
The new Qashqai+2, which will be available from next month, retains the same proportions and overall styling of the original, but has a longer wheelbase, and is therefore a touch longer than the 5-seater. At the rear of the vehicle, the roofline has been lengthened and re-profile to provide ample headroom for the third set of seats, while headroom in the front and middle row of seats, and knee room in the middle row has also been increased.
Nissan provided us with the 2.0l Acenta CVT to test drive at the Port Elizabeth launc. I've never liked CVT transmissions, especially the earlier ones, where the motor is nosy as it builds up revs, while the car tries to catch up. However when I tested the new Murano a few months ago, I said it had the best CVT transmission I'd ever experienced, and I'm happy to say the same for the new Qashqai.
The CVT gearbox is said to improve fuel economy by constantly adjusting to the precise ratio needed for any given situation or driver input, rather than relying on the limitations of a mechanically-defined stack of set ratios.
One of the best characteristics of the new Qashqai is the competence of its handling. The highish standing crossover clings on with surprising vigour in the corners, and body roll is always well controlled. The well-weighted steering, and improved ride quality give the occupants a decent ride, and it flows along the country roads ironing out poor tar surfaces with aplomb.
Nissan has proved its off-road ability with the racing Navaras, winning a few South African off-road championships along the way, and although the 4x4 Qashqai does add a bit more traction, serious off-road ability is limited.
Built in the UK, the new Nissan Qashqai is a great improvement. The 5-seater Qashqai range comprises two 1.6litre and four 2-litre models, wile the 7-seater offers one of each. prices start at R227 500 for the 1.6 Visia up to R333 000 for the 2.0l Acenta dCi 4x4, and all prices include a 3 year/90 000km service plan and a 3 year/100 000km warranty. |
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