Nissan Introduces New Qashqai Compact Crossover in Paris
Nissan is getting ready to shake up the C-Segment vehicle class in Europe and Asia with the introduction of its new Qashqai (say cash-kai although they may pronounce it cash-cow after it hits the market) at this years Paris Motor Show. Described as a "catalyst for change", the Qashqai may be just the vehicle that Nissan needs; although sales of C-Segment vehicles have been consistent over the past few years, the scene itself is starting to change. The market has shifted away from simple hatchbacks, with buyers wanting more practicality, versatility and different styling. Automakers responded by shrinking conventional vehicles such as SUVs and minivans to work on compact platforms, such as the Honda CR-V and Mazda5.
Nissans European market share in the C-Segment also has something to do with the introduction of the Qashqai. Nissans European-market offering in the four-door sedan range, the Almera, based off of the outgoing Sentra, never took off despite delivering attractive styling, reputable quality and a variety of different body styles and powertrains. The crossover-styled Qashqai will replace the Almera as Nissans only offering in the segment, and as its main competitor to the VW Golf, Ford Focus, and other volume sellers. This is different than Nissans North American tactic, which is to offer two separate models, the basic but extremely affordable Versa, and the upmarket, luxury-minded new Sentra.
In terms of its appearance, the Qashqai looks like a shrunken Murano - particularly from its curvy rear flanks - which isnt a bad thing. Slightly less rakish from the front, the previous toothy chrome grille is now replaced by Nissans more distinctive corporate nose and vertically-stacked headlamps. Overall, Nissan says that the vehicle is no longer than the current Ford Focus, ensuring an easy to maneuver vehicle.
Inside, the Qashqai combines the best of the SUV and car worlds, by offering a high vantage point, but a car-like layout with supportive seats. To create an airy feel in the cabin, the Qashqai is available with a two-toned interior color scheme and an optional full-length laminated glass panoramic sunroof with electric sunblind. Cargo volume ranges from 13.6 to 23.3 cu-ft, the latter number when the rear seats are folded.
The Qashqai will be offered in Europe with a variety of different powertrains including 115-horsepower 1.6-liter and 140-horsepower 2.0-liter inline fours, as well as two different dCi turbodiesel engines. Before being routed to Nissans ALL-MODE 4x4 system (first seen in the European and Canadian market X-Trail), power flows through either a five- or six-speed manual, six-speed automatic or CVT gearbox. Like the X-Trail, the Qashqai offers reasonable ground clearance, although its not intended for any heavy duty off-road use. ALL-MODE is standard on all vehicles equipped for those that feature the gasoline and diesel 2.0-liter engines.
As weve seen in North American Nissans, the Qashqai is very high on content to promote the image of luxury and value-for-money. Depending on trim-level, the Qashqai can be equipped with leather interior, intelligent key, handsfree Bluetooth communication, digital climate control, navigation, a reverse camera, and xenon headlamps. Its uncertain whether or not we will see the Qashqai in America, however, it has good market potential as the replacement to the X-Trail in Canada. It makes sense, though, that Nissan brings it south of the 49th parallel being that they can take advantage of recent interest in compact SUVs spurred by high fuel prices.