See the new Nissan Qashqai up close here
Nissan’s all-new Qashqai (pronounce it cash kai) mixes the agility and comfort of a hatchback with an elevated and practical cabin reminiscent of an SUV, encompassing a fashionable design.
A unique 5-door, blending the design traits of a hatchback with SUV inspired styling to produce an agile, strong, elegant, practical and compact vehicle with an elevated seating position, versatile interior, high quality materials and a high level of standard equipment and features.
The Qashqai was conceived, designed and developed in Europe and is powered by a four cylinder 2.0-litre 102kW petrol engine with 198Nm of torque. It comes with a CVT automatic transmission which also has a six speed manual mode, driving the front wheels.
There are two models, the ST and Ti priced at $34,300 and $37,300 respectively. Taller than a typical hatch, it has a similar footprint, shorter than a compact SUV, yet delivers similar practicality.
The interior is attractive and spacious, with comfortable seating for five occupants. The elevated seating position not only aids entry and exit but also gives a commanding view out into the traffic. A further benefit is plenty of leg, shoulder and headroom.
A large load space behind the 60/40 split folding rear seats swallows plenty of lifestyle related gear, and with the backrests folded can accommodate up to 1443-litres of luggage.
A high level of equipment underlines the Qashqai’s appeal with many safety and convenience features available as standard. These include a large 14-litre cooled glove box, CD audio, as well as anti-lock brakes.
Both Qashqai models come with six airbags – front, front side and full curtain – electronic stability programme, active front head restraints, three point seat belts on all seats, engine immobiliser and a five star NCAP safety rating from the European crash testing programme.
Standard features on the ST model include an AM/FM stereo CD player with six speakers, air conditioning, power windows, heated and folding door mirrors, telescopic and tilt adjustable steering column and front fog lights. The Ti adds a higher grade cloth upholstery, leather steering wheel, dual zone climate air conditioning, intelligent key, reading and map lights, rear centre arm rest with cup holders, 17 inch alloy wheels, and xenon automatic headlights.
Qashqai will win the majority of its customers from traditional hatchbacks, SUV or medium car segments. The high-quality interior, high safety rating and versatility will be the key draw cards.
