Nissan have finally lifted the veil from around their next gen Qashqai crossover, set to be made available across the globe from February 2014.
The heir to what was traditionally considered one of the foremost crossovers to be sold en masse, this second generation, while not a dramatic alteration from the first, still does have a few distinctions over and above its predecessor.
At first glance, you notice how much more dynamic the new version looks, with darting lines improving the appearance and curb appeal of the car and more distinctive headlamps giving the car a bit of an edge, as opposed to the somewhat listless design of the first generation. The new version is also lower, wider, and longer than that its predecessor, with Nissan claiming that not only has the driving height not been compromised despite the change in dimensions, but it has also made the interior roomier than before.
On close quarters, it also becomes increasingly apparent that the car is targeted directly at the premium sector, with interior and technology upgrades to match. Ambient lighting, scientifically designed seats, simplified driver controls, and an increased, 450-litre boot space are all testament to this focus on luxury. The car will also feature the all-new Nissan Connect system, which integrates all the latest in modern in-car system options including USB, Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity, all into one seven-inch touchscreen display.
In terms of the power plant, the Qashqai will feature a couple of petrol and diesel options. The petrol engines available are of a capacity of 1.2-litres turbocharged to produce 115 PS, and a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine producing 150 PS. The 1.2-litre engine will have a start/stop system integrated into it as a standard, and will most likely be an optional extra for the 1.6-litre engine which will produce a staggering 240 Nm of torque. When it comes to diesel engines, the options available are a 110 PS direct injection 1.5-litre engine, and a 1.6-litre direct injection producing 130 PS. The 1.5 diesel too will feature start/stop as a standard. All the variants will also allow for Nissan’s unique Xtronic CVT automatic transmission and two or four-wheel drive as optional extras as well.
Technological innovations such as Active engine break, ride control and trace control, along with Hill Start Assist will make the car that much easier to drive. The car will also come equipped with Nissan Safety Shield, some of the highlights of which are, Front Collision Avoidance, Driver Attention Support, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Warning, Moving Object Detection, and Around View Monitor among others.
