Americans who have heard of it refer to it as a mini-Murano, the Japanese market knows it as a Dualis. Designed in London, built in Sunderland, and named for a nomadic people from southwestern Iran, the Nissan Qashqai, which is offered in European, Asian, and Middle Eastern markets, is perfect example of a compact crossover car. It has the soul of a coupe and the flexibility of a hatchback.
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| Nissan Qashqai |
The Nissan Qashqai is featured with a choice of four engines, two gasoline (petrol) and two diesel. The 1.5-litre diesel engine provides 106 horsepower and 240Nm of torque while the 2.0-litre puts out 150 hp and 320Nm of torque. The petrol engines offer 115 horsepower and 160Nm of torque in a 1.6-litre model, or 140hp and 200Nm in the 2.0-litre version.
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| Aggressive front look |
In addition there is an array of gearbox options, including five-speed and six-speed manual, six-speed automatic and CVT. Both the diesel and petrol versions of the 2-litre engine are available with Nissan’s all-wheel drive system.
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| Stylish rear design |
Don’t let the 4×4 option fool you, however. Despite the fact that the Nissan Qashqai is taller and has more clearance than a true hatchback, the all-wheel drive option is there for additional road safety – this car is meant for street use.
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| Multimedia system with reverse camera |
As well as being taller than the average hatchback, the Nissan Qashqai is also about 100mm longer (though it is still roughly 150 mm shorter than most SUV’s), and a bit wider, with a wheelbase of 2630mm, and a 1780mm width.
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| Lovely rear lights |
These slightly larger dimensions are enhanced by the sporty feel of the interior, which has a raised main console and instrument panels that are deeply recessed.
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| Simple cockpit |
It’s now available in Kenya from DT. Dobie. In the UK the Qashqai is on sale at starting price of £16,595 (Around Kshs. 4 million).
