Nissan has taken a daring leap with the facelifted Nissan Qashqai, defying the age-old saying of “don’t mess with success.” This highly popular family SUV has undergone an aggressive makeover, accompanied by impressive technological upgrades, in an attempt to outperform rivals such as the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage.
The Qashqai’s transformation has been nothing short of remarkable, with the VP of Design for Europe, Matthew Weaver, referring to it as a shift from Clark Kent to Superman. The focal point of the redesign is the striking new grille, featuring a complex pattern of gloss black scales inspired by traditional Japanese armor. Complementing this bold feature is a sharper daytime running light design and adaptive high-beam headlights.
Aesthetically pleasing changes can also be found at the rear, where the new tail-lights boast small floating elements beneath a larger ‘boomerang’ shape. Additionally, the rear bumper has been reshaped to exude a wider and more premium appearance. The newly introduced N-Design trim further enhances the exterior with body-colored panels on the wheel arches and doors, along with a set of unique 20-inch alloy wheels.
Though the interior changes are more subtle, they are equally noteworthy. The dashboard and center console don new finishes, while new upholstery patterns, ambient lighting, and Alcantara elements on higher-spec models elevate the overall look. Moreover, the Qashqai now boasts thicker side windows, reducing cabin noise and enhancing the driving experience.
However, it is the technological advancements that truly steal the show. The most significant upgrade is the introduction of a new infotainment system, built on Google’s Android Automotive OS. With apps like Google Maps, Waze, and Spotify integrated into the system, the Qashqai becomes a highly connected car. Additionally, the inclusion of Google’s voice assistant enables drivers to adjust cabin settings using natural language commands.
In terms of safety, the new Qashqai comes equipped with an array of features that surpass its predecessors. This includes driver-drowsiness attention warning, autonomous emergency braking, emergency lane-keeping assist, and accident data recording. Moreover, Nissan has enhanced the quality of the cameras used for the Around View Monitor system, further improving visibility and safety.
While the Qashqai’s design and technological upgrades are impressive, it’s worth noting that the engine options remain unchanged. Customers still have the choice between a mild-hybrid petrol motor and Nissan’s unique e-Power technology. The latter stands out from traditional hybrids as its 187bhp electric motor solely powers the front wheels, with the petrol engine serving as a generator.
The facelifted Nissan Qashqai is set to hit the market this summer, boasting five trim levels: Acenta Premium, N-Connecta, Tekna, N-Design, and Tekna+. Although the entry-level Visia model will be discontinued, Nissan’s commitment to excellence remains, with the starting price expected to be around £30,000.
Nissan has demonstrated its determination to embrace change and innovation with the redesigned Qashqai. This bold step towards the future is sure to captivate customers and solidify the Qashqai’s position as a frontrunner in the highly competitive SUV market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What changes have been made to the Nissan Qashqai?
A: The facelifted Nissan Qashqai has undergone a remarkable transformation with a new grille design, redesigned tail-lights, reshaped rear bumper, and the introduction of the N-Design trim. Interior changes include new finishes, upholstery patterns, ambient lighting, and improved cabin noise reduction.
Q: What are the technological upgrades in the new Qashqai?
A: The new Qashqai features a new infotainment system built on Google’s Android Automotive OS, allowing integration with popular apps like Google Maps, Waze, and Spotify. The inclusion of Google’s voice assistant enables drivers to adjust cabin settings using natural language commands.
Q: What safety features does the new Qashqai have?
A: The new Qashqai is equipped with various safety features, including driver-drowsiness attention warning, autonomous emergency braking, emergency lane-keeping assist, and accident data recording. The cameras used for the Around View Monitor system have also been enhanced for better visibility and safety.
Q: Are there any changes to the engine options?
A: No, the engine options remain unchanged. Customers can still choose between a mild-hybrid petrol motor and Nissan’s unique e-Power technology, which features an electric motor powering the front wheels and a petrol engine acting as a generator.
Q: When will the facelifted Qashqai be available and what are the trim levels?
A: The facelifted Nissan Qashqai is set to hit the market in the summer. The available trim levels are Acenta Premium, N-Connecta, Tekna, N-Design, and Tekna+. The entry-level Visia model will be discontinued, and the starting price is expected to be around £30,000.
Key Terms:
– SUV: Sport Utility Vehicle, a type of vehicle that combines features from passenger cars and off-road vehicles.
– Infotainment System: A system in a vehicle that provides entertainment, information, and connectivity features, typically including navigation, audio, and smartphone integration.
– Mild-Hybrid: A hybrid vehicle that combines a conventional combustion engine with a small electric motor to improve fuel efficiency.
– e-Power: Nissan’s unique hybrid technology that uses an electric motor to power the wheels, while a petrol engine acts as a generator.
– Trim Levels: Different configurations of a vehicle model with varying features and options.
Suggested related links:
– Nissan Qashqai Official Website
– Nissan UK Website