All-New Nissan Qashqai Is Sleeker, Roomier and More Efficient [35 Photos & Video]

Nissan has finally revealed the all-new, second-generation Qashqai crossover that sports a completely new design, in line with the brand’s new Rogue and X-Trail crossovers.

The new model is 49mm (1.93 inches) longer than its predecessor is, but fractionally lower and wider. However, it maintains the sleek stance of the model and the raised driving position. While it looks a lot like the Rogue overall, the Qashqai (to be offered as the Dualis in some markets) has a sportier look and much bigger taillights, somewhat similar to those on the Ford Focus wagon.

The story is similar inside, with the cabin being very similar to the Rogue/X-Trail. Nissan says the quality and design of materials are dramatically improved, with the new Qashqai also delivering greater occupant space and a larger luggage capacity.

The Qashqai is available with two petrol and two diesel engines, with the option of two- or four-wheel-drive and manual or Xtronic automatic transmissions. The entry-level engine is Renault-Nissan’s 1.2-liter DIG-T engine with 115PS (113hp) and 190 Nm (140 lb-ft), tuned specifically for the new Qashqai. With the six-speed manual and FWD configuration, the engine averages 5.6 l/100 km (42 mpg US) and emits 129g/km of CO2.

The other gasoline engine is a 150PS (148hp) 1.6-liter DIG-T that will join the range in the summer of 2014. The engine produces 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque and averages 5.6 l/100 km (42 mpg US), emitting 132 g of CO2 per km.

The most efficient engine on the new Qashqai is the 110PS (108hp) 1.5-liter dCi diesel. Fitted with a standard start-stop system, it averages 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 mpg US) and has CO2 emissions of just 99 g/km. Nissan says the engine is more refined and quieter than before, while also having 20 Nm (14.7 lb-ft) more torque.

The most powerful diesel unit, the new 130PS (128hp) 1.6 dCi, averages 4.4 l/100 km (53.4 mpg US) and has CO2 emissions of 115 g/km in two-wheel drive manual form. The 4WD manual verson averages 4.9 l/100 km (48 mpg US), while the 2WD with the all-new Xtronic CVT gearbox has a combined fuel consumption of 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 mpg US).

The new Qashqai features Nissan’s Safety Shield technologies that now incorporate Front Collision Avoidance, Driver Attention Support and Traffic Sign Recognition, while Intelligent Park Assist helps with urban maneuvers. Despite packing more technology, some models are up to 40 kg (88 lbs) lighter than the previous generation.

The Qashqai will be built in Sunderland, UK, and will go on sale in selected global markets from January 2014.

By Dan Mihalascu

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