Since it was first introduced back in 2006, the Nissan Qashqai has gone from strength to strength to become the most popular crossover on the British market. Sharp looks paired to a practical interior meant families were drawn to the Japanese crossover, and the second generation model has only continued that when it was introduced back in 2013.
This year saw Nissan give the model a series of updates, and we got behind the wheel to see what the family crossover was like.
New efficient petrol unit
To join the two diesel engines that Nissan has offered for some time with the Qashqai, the Japanese brand has added a 1.3-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine that comes in two states of tune and invigorates the crossover further. Offering 138bhp and 157bhp, both DIG-T units can be paired with a six-speed manual transmission, while the 157bhp engine can be teamed with a seven-speed DCT transmission.
With the manual, the top-spec petrol can get from 0-60mph in 8.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 124mph – while the automatic variant gets to 60mph a second slower and has a 123mph top speed.
Improved infotainment
With the updated Qashqai comes a much-improved NissanConnect infotainment system that incorporates voice recognition, a customisable homescreen and smartphone connectivity. Available on all but the Visia trim level, the seven-inch unit can also display the new ‘Door to Door Navigation’ function, which allows drivers to pre-plan their routes on their smartphone and send it to the navigation system before setting off.
The NissanConnect system also features live traffic updates and over-the-air software and map updates to ensure all the information on-board is up to date.
As practical as ever
Although the boot may be smaller than in some rivals, the 430-litre load space is more than large enough for families to use for day-to-day activity and for longer trips. If the back seats aren’t in use and you need the extra space, then you can have up to 1,585 litres of loading area which comes with a flat floor.
But when you need the passenger space, there is plenty on offer as the rear passenger space is excellent. Head and legroom is great thanks to long wheelbase, while any small items they need can be stored in the many storage bins and compartments.
How much does it cost?
Prices for the Nissan Qashqai start from £19,995.
See local Qashqai Prices
