Nissan has finally revealed the all-new second-generation Qashqai that will go on sale globally in 2014. While still instantly recognisable as a Qashqai, the new model boasts a more dynamic appearance. It has large LED lights, a sloping roofline and wide stance that make it look quite sporty. The new Qashqai is longer and wider, but also lower than its predecessor, with with a contoured bonnet and sides.
Inside, the the Qashqai is more luxurious than its predecessor, and, according to Nissan, boasts high-quality finishes. Safety kit has also improved substantially, with the vehicle now offering impressive features such as front collision avoidance, driver attention support, traffic sign recognition, blind spot warning, moving object detection and intelligent parking assist.
Though we’ll have to wait and see what engines will be offered locally, it seems pretty certain that there will be four engines to choose from – two diesel and two petrol versions. The first oilburner is the familiar 1,5-litre dCi mill currently doing duty in the Qashqai, which generates around 81 kW of power. The second diesel powerplant is a 1,6-litre engine that is capable of generating 96 kW of power. The firtst petrol mill is a 1,2-litre DIG-T unit that offers 85 kW of power. The second is 1,6-litre DIG-T mill that generates 110 kW of power.
As with the current iteration, the new model will be available in both 4×2 and 4×4 versions. Prospective buyers can also choose between a six-speed manual and a new Xtronic automatic transmission. The Xtronic is available only with the 1,6-litre diesel engine, and is essentially a CVT ‘box. However, according to Nissan, the gearbox feels nothing like a traditional CVT – instead mimicking the behaviour of a traditional automatic gearbox.
The Qashqai will go on sale globally in January 2014, and will hopefully arrive in SA very soon after that.
