Nissan Qashqai 2.0 +2

Nissan Qashqai with Johannesburg Gold Mine dump in the background

If the Nissan Qashqai has one thing going for it, its looks. It’s quite a stunner. In addition, it’s practical too. Now with the introduction of the Qashqai +2, sporting seven seats, the range is even better.

The test model is the Q21 model, 2 litre with CVT transmission. Its Nissan’s urban cross-over occupying a spot in the SUV market. The design is modern and conservative, yet robust and appealing. The 2.0ℓ delivers 102kW at 5 200rpm and 198Nm at 4 400rpm.

big 18" wheels makes for good ground-clearance

The large 18” mags with low profile tyres look so good with the rest of the body and these come as standard. This model comes with a six speed automatic Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) gearbox with a manual mode. CVT is a system that uses a variable gear, the same sort of gear system found in scooters. However, that’s where the similarity ends. With every trip, I just grew fonder of this new technology. Gear changes are so smooth that you honestly can’t feel them, and I’m not exaggerating. Stick it in manual shift mode and the changes are felt ever so slightly when driving aggressively. One thing I did notice though is that in manual mode, there are six gears, but once in sixth, slip the gearbox into automatic and an overdrive engages. This is great for fuel economy and engine wear when travelling. The ALL MODE 4X4 electronic Four-Wheel Drive System gives you easy selection dial in the centre console. Three modes are available: 2WD (driving the front wheels for optimum fuel economy), Lock mode (with 50/50, front/rear torque spread for off-roading) or Auto mode. Unfortunately, there is no low range or diff-lock. Auto mode is both proactive and reactive. If it senses potential loss of grip, the electronic control unit instantly apportions the ideal amount of torque to the rear wheels. If road conditions suddenly change, it automatically engages the rear wheels to maintain stability. Top speed is a bit disappointing as I battled to get anything over 180 km/h.

flowing lines of the Qashqai

The Qashqai has been awarded the maximum 5-star EURO NCAP rating for adult occupants. It also comes with ISOFIX child anchors to secure child seats. Another safety feature is the front active head restraint system. In the event of a collision, this passive system protects the front occupant’s neck from injury by moving forward to reduce the risk of whiplash.

Overall, the Qashqai seems to be a comfortable, versatile and safe car, but that’s about it. It lacks a certain character and maybe that’s because it is a bit too refined. There is nothing exiting about it. Everything is just there.

Qashqai - pronounced Cashkai... me thinks

the beautiful lines of the Nissan Qashqai

the Qashqai 2.0 engine

Dylan taking photos of the Qashqai at sunrise

the Nissan Qashqai... from the land of the rising sun

Words and photos by Dylan Slater

the Qashqai dash

It came. It was driven. It conquered. New Nissan 2010 Qashqai, the crossover masters the city.
Forget city style; this is street art. With raised fenders for more wheel-space, a new top-line tail-lights with LED and a sleek dynamic look with uncompromising strength and agility, the new Qashqai is ready to redesign the urban landscape.
With its high driving position for a broader vista, SUV attributes and improved acoustics for a smoother, quieter drive. It’s an urban legend in its own time.
The new Nissan 2010 QASHQAI, is now even more robust and dynamic.
A Refreshing frontal design with a new bonnet, aggressive front bumper, honey-comb grille and vibrant new headlights, give the QASHQAI an air of premium sophistication and presence.
The body contouring headlamps with high beam function reflectors and low beam function projectors as well as the sporty rear spoiler with a 12 LED taillight offers a more aggressive stance. 
The impressive new aerodynamic styling results in improved fuel consumption and lower emissions.
With the sporty 18-inch, 10 spoke diamond cut alloys and brushed metal roof-rails on the 2.0l Acenta models, QASHQAI’S cutting edge styling is taken to a new level.

The new Nissan 2010 QASHQAI is the original cross-over, which combines stylish design and sophistication, not only on the outside, but the refinement continues into the interior.
This QASHQAI reflects the "no compromise" attitude of achievers who know what they want and don’t need anyone’s approval.
Experience the ultimate in drive comfort and noise reduction with the state of the art 4-layer dash insulation and acoustic windscreens that optimises the engine noise isolation.
The all new instrument panel with the state of the art technology TFT (Thin Film Transistor), has LCD display which gives added clarity and legibility. Another improvement to the interior comes with the fitment of illuminating lighting around the front foot wells, convenient when getting in and out of the car. There are many other clever functionalities like cruise control, steering controls and Bluetooth hands free kit.

The 2010 QASHQAI turns heads with its range of compelling engines – two lightweight aluminum petrol engines as well as a powerful diesel. 
QASHQAI is available in three specification grades. Visia is bold outside, while the inside trim is relaxed with chic simplicity. Acenta has contemporary elegance, yet retains a subtle sense of style while expanding on Visia’s extensive specifications. With the 4X4 Acenta you can break conventions, rewrite the urban street rules and still be the inspiration that dictates trends. 

The 1.6ℓ petrol delivers 81kW at 6 000rpm and 154Nm torque at 4 400rpm. The 2.0ℓ delivers 102kW at 5 200rpm and 198Nm at 4 400rpm. The powerful 2.0ℓ dCi packs a punch with 110kW at 4 000rpm and a very useful 320Nm torque at 2 000rpm. The 1.6ℓ petrol visia model engine is available in a 5 speed manual transmission while the 2.0ℓ dCi and 2.0ℓ petrol comes in a 6 speed manual transmission.
The introduction of the new automatic Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) gearbox, available on the 2.0ℓ petrol, makes the notorious urban traffic a breeze. 
With independent rear multi-link suspension, combined with electrical power steering, the QASHQAI confidently keeps you in control by providing stability around any bend. The QASHQAI also boasts an ALL MODE 4X4 system. The ALL MODE 4X4 electronic Four-Wheel Drive System gives you easy dial selection of 2WD (driving the front wheels for optimum fuel economy), lock mode (with 50/50, front/rear torque spread for off-roading) or auto mode.Auto mode is both proactive and reactive. If it senses potential loss of grip, the electronic control unit instantly apportions the ideal amount of torque to the rear wheels. If road conditions suddenly change, it automatically engages the rear wheels to maintain stability.

The new Nissan QASHQAI 2010 has been awarded the maximum 5-star EURO NCAP rating for adult occupant protection.
Occupant safety was a high priority in the QASHQAI’s design. Using the latest computer simulations to offer a high degree of impact protection there is no compromise. With superb traction control, superior stopping power, stable handling and the latest generation VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) on all 2.0l models, the QASHQAI will make you feel more than confident when taking on the city streets.
Every QASHQAI comes standard with six airbags and ISOFIX child anchors.
With Nissan, it’s safety first and the inclusion of the front active head restraint system is no exception. In the event of a collision, this passive system protects the front occupant’s neck from injury by moving forward to reduce the risk of whiplash.

Thanks to Nissan South Africa for the drive,

the Qashqai is Nissan's urban, crossover car.