Zimpapers Logo

The new Nissan Qashqai

Tinashe Makichi Motoring Correspondent
Nissan has reinvented the wheel . . .literally. In 2007, Nissan launched a model that became the crossover pioneer.

That model has now been reinvented. The new Nissan Qashqai has arrived and is now available in Zimbabwe.

Premium technology, second generation crossover design and enhanced dynamics all combine to form the backbone of the new Nissan Qashqai.

The striking Nissan Qashqai is longer than the current model and fractionally lower and wider giving it a sleek poised stance while maintaining the crossover style, compact dimensions and raised driving position.

Distinctive features including a clamshell style bonnet lend a premium appearance while retaining the Nissan Qashqai strong visual DNA.

Inside, a dramatic rise in material and design quality adds significant interior appeal to the Nissan Qashqai package. Versatility also remains a core crossover attribute; Nissan’s engineers have devised innovative ways to make the Nissan Qashqai fit into drivers’ lives.

The first generation Nissan Qashqai effortless design and innovative approach was key to making it a global success.

The all new version sets a new benchmark for crossover design, featuring a striking new look with powerful curves, clean lines and intricate details, taking Nissan’s iconic crossover to the next level. Keeping everything fresh, the bold new design is fronted by the prominent Nissan V-motion grille, supported by angular headlights and an aggressive front bumper with a deep air dam for a purposeful look.

All models are characterised by new boomerang LED welcome and follow-me home lights which create a light signature that is unquestionably Nissan Qashqai. At the rear, a pert tail gate is flanked by strong wraparound tail light clusters with LED elements and a sophisticated bumper design which rounds off the SUV appeal. Purposeful in its execution as much as it is striking to look at, design elements have also been employed to enhance aerodynamics, the Nissan Qashqai featuring a drag coefficient of just 0.33 — thanks to clever features like a flat underbelly and a roof spoiler with winglets.

Inside, Nissan’s designers have created a cabin which combines clarity, harmony and space.

In creating Nissan Qashqai cabin, Nissan’s design and engineering teams wanted to put the driver at the heart of the action. The car’s numerous comfort, convenience and safety systems have been analysed and redesigned to give the driver easy access to all key controls. The Nissan Qashqai features all new seats using science to minimize driver fatigue. During the design stage, engineers used advanced medical scanning techniques and were inspired by NASA to analyse pressure and blood flow in the lower back of seated passengers.

By redesigning elements and improving support in key areas, they were able to create a seat that offered even support. The highly advanced seat offers special support thanks to additional bolsters in the pelvis, lumbar and chest areas. The result is a seat that delivers long-distance comfort.

Nissan Qashqai is also a by-word for practicality and in the new version, availability of space is still an intrinsic feature. Spacious seating for five occupants with improved leg-, head- and shoulder room, is matched by improved door apertures for easier ingress and egress.

The capacious 430 litre boot, fronted by a tailgate which now opens 150 mm higher than before, is 20 litres bigger than that of the first generation Nissan Qashqai. Cargo capacity is extendable to 1 585 litres with the rear seat backs folded down in a 60:40 split — standard in all models.

Produced at the Nissan Sunderland plant in England, the new Qashqai arrives in Zimbabwe with a four model range supported by a 2,0-litre petrol engine and two trim lines.

Efficient, modern, trendy and energetic in its execution, the Nissan Qashqai is not just a reworked original with a renewed lease on life.

Achieving five stars under the stringent Euro NCAP crash tests, safety was of paramount importance when developing the new Nissan Qashqai.

All models carry the highest complement of safety equipment as standard, including four-disc ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist System.

Automatic LED head lights with automatic leveliser, rain sensing wipers, heated leather seats, an electric anti-dazzle rear view mirror and a panoramic glass roof are additional features.