The Qashqai (pronounced “Kash-Kai” and named after a Nomadic tribe) is a new addition to the Nissan lineup that offers an interesting alternative to the usual fare within the C-segment. According to Nissan, this crossover combines the dynamics of a five-dThe Qashqai relays the elements of the styling first seen on the Nissan Murano, with the side profile following the movement of the roofline and finishing with a small upswept triangular third window. The Qashqai is equipped with 16-inch steel or alloy wheels, wrapped in 215/65 tires and will be made available in two trim levels, “Visia” and “Acenta”.

Providing a link to the front, side and rear of the vehicle, are wraparound headlamp and tail lamp clusters. Up front, the Nissan’s logo roundel is framed in a chromed U-shaped motif that echoes the twin power ridges in the bonnet.

The Qashqai is the first vehicle in Europe to be built on the Nissan/Renault Alliance C platform. The wheelbase length of 2 631 mm translates to increased interior space within an otherwise compact body. Ground clearance is 200 mm while approach and departure angles are 19.2 deg and 30.2 deg, respectively. Not exactly the kind of figures that translate to hardcore off-roading, but better than your regular hatchback. The Qashqai is 4 315 mm long, 1 783 mm wide and 1 606 mm tall.

The Qashqai will be offered with a pair of four-cylinder petrol engines: a 1,6-litre, developing 81 kW and 154 N.m of torque and a 2,0-litre delivering 102 kW and 198 N.m of torque. The 1,6-litre is 25 kg lighter than Nissan’s previous unit and features variable valve timing, multi-point port injection and vane-type continuous intake cam phasing. The 2,0-litre engine is another lightweight all-aluminium unit that powers models sold in Japan. Ninety per cent of its torque is available from 2 000 r/min, providing a punch that is usually associated with larger capacity engines. A diesel derivative will find its way to South Africa in the second half of 2008.

The 1,6-litre engines come with five-speed manual gearboxes and the 2,0-litre comes with a six-speed manual transmission. The front suspension features a sub-frame mounted strut-type system with combined coil-over strut assemblies and forward lower link. The rear receives a fully independent multi-link rear suspension.

Reducing body roll under cornering, are rebound springs and a front anti-roll bar – fine-tuned by Nissan.

The Qashqai utilizes advanced braking and traction control systems to keep braking performance on par with traditional hatchbacks. Brake Assist and EBD assist the all-round disc brakes with ABS. Handling and maneuverability are enhanced by the adoption of EPS (Electronic Power Steering), offering more assistance at lower speeds and more feel at higher speeds.

The interior bristles with innovative features, such as a heating and ventilation system takes the form of either a manual or fully automatic dual zone system (depending on model). The factory audio system with radio/CD also features standard Bluetooth integration and audio controls on the steering wheel. Other features include automatic headlamps, auto dimming rear view mirrors, and rain-sensitive wipers. The Qashqai can also be fitted with electric folding door mirrors and cruise control.

The Qashqai’s interior space and storage options do not disappoint. These include a 14-litre glove box, large door bins, seat back pockets and an eight-CD centre console box. The sliding box lid doubles as an armrest for comfort and convenience. The centre console and rear centre armrest also includes cup holders.

Active safety equipment includes ABS and BAS (Brake Assist), as well as DVC (Dynamic Vehicle Control). Passive safety starts with six airbags as standard on all models. These include dual stage driver and passenger airbags, thorax side airbags, and full-length curtain airbags. The front seatbelts are also equipped with pre-tensioners to take up slack in the event of a collision.

The Qashqai comes with a three-year/90 000 km service plan and a three year/100 000 km warranty.

Prices:

Qasqai Visia 1,6 R 183 900

Qasqai Acenta 1,6 R 196 600

Qasqai Acenta 2,0 R 219 950

Original article from Car