Nissan has revealed the all-new Qashqai, which is the second generation model that receives substantial changes over the previous model. The Qashqai follows the new design language, which we have seen on the latest Nissan X-Trail. The previous model had an attractive styling too but the new Qashqai gets sharper and aggressive, reflecting an energetic profile. The front end of the Nissan Qashqai has a forward leaning design consisting of signature Nissan grille with angular headlamps integrating LED daytime running lights. The side profile has a muscular shoulder crease with a swooping roofline.
The rear end of the Nissan Qashqai is dominated by the wide and huge tail lamps. The 2014 Qashqai also gets some changes in dimensions. It is lower and wider than the previous model and 49 mm longer. On the inside, you’ll find a similar design philosophy as the X-Trail. Nissan claims that the quality inside the cabin has significantly improved with increased occupant space and larger luggage capacity. Nissan is offering the Qashqai in two petrol and two diesel engine options with a choice of two-wheel drive and fur-wheel drive layout and manual or Xtronic automatic transmissions.
The entry level petrol engine is a 1.2-litre motor that produces 115 PS of power with 190 Nm of torque. Next up is the 1.6-litre petrol motor that churns out 150 PS of power with 240 Nm of torque. The entry level diesel engine is the famous 1.5-litre dCi motor that churns out 110 PS of power that comes standard with a start-stop system for better fuel efficiency. Nissan claims that this engine is more refined and quieter than before. The range topping diesel engine is the 1.6-litre dCi motor that produces 130 PS of power.
Some of the safety features on the Nissan Qashqai include Front Collision Avoidance, Driver Attention Support, Traffic Sign Recognition and Intelligent Park Assist. Despite the high end equipment on the new generation Qashqai, some models are around 40 kgs lighter than its predecessor. The Qashqai will be manufactured in Sunderland, UK and will hit global markets from January 2014. Nissan is also considering the launch of the new Qashqai in India next year. If they get the pricing right (expected around Rs. 20 lakhs) in India, the SUV will be well appreciated by Indians.
