2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 15:44
The Qashqai is the great hope for Nissan. The crossover model is actually assigned to the golf class, but the Japanese all-purpose weapon conveys more.
By Thomas Flehmer
It depends on the perspective. And even then, Nissan's new beacon of hope cannot be assigned to any segment. The unusual name Qashqai - named after a nomad tribe who migrated through the desert - therefore fits the vehicle that drives through the streets without any norms.
Between golf class and SUV
If you only look at the chassis, you are sure that the 4.32 meter long Qashqai definitely belongs in the C segment. If the body is then placed on wheels, the deliberation process begins. 17 inch tires ensure that this classification cannot be made so quickly.
The Qashqai now stands out thanks to its elevated position and could almost knock on the SUV segment. The wide front and the curved side line make the Qashqai look like a little brother of the Murano.
Strong engine and four-wheel drive
And the motorization also stands out. A two-liter four-cylinder with 104 kW / 140 PS is otherwise only on the shelf at Dodge with the Caliber. The icing on the cake of the 1.5-tonner is the four-wheel drive, which cannot be found in other competitors. However, despite the name, the Qashqai is not intended for the site. He has to be content with the asphalt, the all-wheel drive should provide additional safety in adverse road conditions.
The Qashqai doesn't really need to worry about enough traction. Despite the 140 hp, the test drives did not give the impression of being out in a Sprinter. The city nomad needs 10.6 seconds to sprint to the 100 km / h mark; if propulsion is only generated by two wheels, the Qashqai arrives at its destination half a second faster. Despite 196 Nm one always thinks that there is still a bit of liveliness missing here. Nevertheless, according to Nissan, 8.4 liters of premium gasoline are available. During the test drives, this value was maintained with mostly normal driving style. This results in a value of 204 grams of CO2 emissions per kilometer driven.
Solid worker
In contrast, the steering behavior is not entirely satisfactory. The golf competitor can be steered a little vaguely without appearing unreliable. It compensates for bumps in the road more like a Golf than an SUV. Nevertheless, the occupants can feel comfortable. The Qashqai does its job solidly.
The interior also contributes to the feel-good aspect. Because the interior is just as unconventional, but lovingly designed. The high seating position ensures a comfortable ride, the seats provide the necessary support.
Attention cyclists
Difficulties arise when looking at the cyclist. A few more moments should be taken here to make sure that you do not take any road users with you when you turn. You have a better view through the panoramic glass roof, which looks huge. At the push of a button, the headliner moves backwards, revealing the view and providing plenty of light in the interior.
The rear view camera is really well done. You should always look to the rear, but the camera and guidelines allow the vehicle to drive safely into the gap.
Expensive or cheap?
At least 19,790 euros are due. For this you get the basic model with a 1.6 liter model. The 2.0 Tekna 4WD test car we drove with many extras such as the panorama roof, on-board computer, height-adjustable driver's seat, side lights, rear parking aid and much more, as well as the 2200 euro navigation system, cost 29,930 euros. A lot of money for a golf-class vehicle, but also an inexpensive small SUV - it depends on the angle.
