Nissan has sold a total of 5 million units of the Nissan Qashqai worldwide since 2007, and the third generation of the successful model is now celebrating its premiere. It looks modern like none before it, comes with great equipment, lots of space and a high-quality appearance. And it’s good for one or two surprises, especially when it comes to the continuously variable CVT transmission, says “Krone” engine editor Stephan Schätzl. His impressions here in the video!
Boomerang-shaped LED headlights, a Nissan-typical chrome clip that “folds” seamlessly into the bonnet, lots of lines and edges on the body – the designers have drawn on the full without overdoing it. And they have one thing ahead of many of their competitors: They have brought together an interesting rear end without using dummy exhausts. In addition, the new Nissan Qashqai is relatively unmistakable. Bravo.
4.43 meters long, with a 2.67 meter wheelbase – both of which have grown in the centimeter range – it offers a little more space in the interior than before. Even tall rear seat passengers feel comfortable behind front seat passengers without having to negotiate the position of the front seats. The trunk has a capacity of 436 liters or 1447 liters on a level loading area behind the optional sensor-controlled tailgate.
In the tidy and high-quality interior, the driver does not have to do without a dedicated air conditioning system with practical rotary controls, there is also a real volume control. The central display measures 7, 8 or 9 inches, depending on the equipment variant. The latter measure applies from the medium equipment level N-Connecta (from 33,200 euros), which also includes navigation and wireless Apple CarPlay. However, the iPhone is only charged wirelessly in the second most expensive version, Tekna.
Amazing basic equipment
Even in the basic equipment mentioned above (from 26,600 euros), assistance systems such as the car emergency brake when driving forwards and backwards or an intersection assistant are standard. In addition, an adaptive cruise control and the rear parking sensors. For this, the tires are mounted on steel rims (17 inches). Apple CarPlay with cable is available from Acenta (30,900 euros).
From Tekna (36,500 euros), there is also assisted driving called Pro-Pilot, a real head-up display, matrix high beam – and wireless mobile phone charging. Tekna + (41,400 euros) brings the panoramic glass roof or leather upholstery and massage seats at the front.
No more diesel
There is only one engine on offer, a 1.3-liter mild hybrid turbo gasoline engine with either 140 or 158 hp. The basic equipment is only available with the weaker version and manual gearbox. In principle, a CVT is also available and, in the three upper equipment variants, all-wheel drive.
The CVT transmission has been further improved. This is what many manufacturers say when presenting a new generation, but in this case it is really exceptionally well done. The typical weaknesses do not occur, it simply ensures smooth power transmission.
Next year, Nissan wants to bring the Qashqai as a hybrid. It is powered by a 140 kW / 190 PS electric motor, which draws its energy from a relatively small battery. A 1.5-liter gasoline engine with variable compression takes care of charging the battery.
Separate rear axle for 20-inch rims
Even in the 1.6-ton top version, the Nissan Qashqai looks relatively light-footed. The body is around 60 kg lighter than that of its predecessor, the basic model only weighs 1330 kg. The chassis is comfortably tuned, but is also ideally suited for fast driving on winding roads. The steering ensures the best feedback. Unusual: The Nissan Qashqai is equipped with a torsion beam rear axle in all equipment levels – you only get the higher quality multi-link axle if you order the optional 20-inch wheels for a good 500 euros.
Bottom line
The new Nissan Qashqai is as modern as it looks and offers a lot of equipment that is almost confusing. The biggest surprise, however, is the very successful CVT transmission. Just as the whole car can be described as very successful.
Why?
Very good driving behavior
Very relaxing CVT transmission
Why not?
Little choice of drives
Or maybe …
… Toyota CH-R, Peugeot 3008, Mazda CX-30, Kia Sportage, VW Tiguan