The Nissan Qashqai+2
Published: 7th April 2008
Nissan Qashqai+2
Left in Auto, the system will automatically compensate for unexpected slippery conditions on-road, such as wet leaves in autumn, early morning winter ice or loose gravel at any time of the year.
ALL-MODE is inextricably linked to Bosch’s eighth generation Electronic Stability Programme (ESP). Using sensors linked to the brakes, steering, wheels and the body itself, ESP constantly monitors the way the car is being driven.
In its customer research, Nissan found clearly that existing Qashqai owners who have opted for the ALL-MODE versions enjoy the feeling of confidence and security that the discreet, unobtrusive all-wheel drive system gives them when driving in marginal conditions.
Given its family orientation, customers will appreciate the availability of ALL-MODE on Qashqai+2 thanks to the reassurance it will offer in almost all road conditions that the driver and occupants are likely to find themselves in.
From the steering angle and wheel speeds, ESP calculates what manoeuvres the driver intends to perform and from signals from the yaw-rate and lateral acceleration sensors ESP recognises whether the vehicle might skid off course. In an emergency ESP reacts swiftly, and by selectively applying the brakes at each wheel ESP ‘steers’ the vehicle in the desired direction.
Qashqai+2 has other electronic control systems, including cornering brake control (CBC) and enhanced understeer control (EUC) in which the system applies the brakes to all four wheels to reduce excessive understeer. Hydraulic fade compensation (HFC) prevents brake fade after a period of heavy brake usage.
The braking system is essentially unchanged from Qashqai, though the adoption of standard 17-inch alloy wheels on 2.0-litre versions has permitted the fitment of larger rear brakes.
The Running Gear
Qashqai+2 offers a choice of two petrol and two diesel versions. The entry-level petrol is a lightweight all-aluminium unit displacing 1598 cc, developing 115 PS (84 kW) and 160 Nm of torque. It has four valves per cylinder, variable valve timing, multi-point port injection and vane-type continuous intake cam phasing.
Top of the petrol range is another all-aluminium 16-valve design, this one displacing 1997 cc and developing 140 PS (103 kW) and 200 Nm of torque. Some 90 per cent of that torque is available from 2000 rpm providing the accelerative ‘punch’ more usually expected in larger engines.
Almost as compact as the 1.6 engine, among its key design features is a notable reduction in internal friction. A mirror-like finishing technique is applied to the surfaces of the crankshaft pin journal and the cam lobe journal and to a new machining method that ensures truly circular bores is used: this procedure is common practice in the machining of bores of racing engines but is seldom used in volume production engines.
The entry-level diesel uses the most powerful version of Alliance partner Renault’s acclaimed 1.5 dCi (K9K) engine developing 106 PS (78 kW) and 240Nm of torque. A Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is also fitted as standard. Praised for its fuel efficiency and low noise, it features a flexible flywheel to filter out the effects of acyclic movements. Specifically developed to comply with Euro 4 legislation the engine has a lowered compression ratio (16:1) and a variable geometry, multi-blade turbocharger.
The 2.0 dCi is equipped with a Bosch piezoelectric-controlled injection system to develop 150 PS (110 kW) and 320 Nm of torque. Piezoelectric technology gives fast, very precise control allowing a ‘five squirt’ injection cycle: two pre-squirts, one main squirt and two post-squirts.
The pre-squirts improve engine acoustics by minimising the characteristic diesel clatter. The post-squirts sustain the main injection combustion, to burn off soot and thus bring down pollutant emissions before the exhaust gases have even left the combustion chamber.
Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) produces a controlled temperature rise in the combustion chamber to reduce pollutant emission levels (NOx) and thus enhance the engine’s overall environment performance. The 2.0-litre diesel engine is also equipped as standard with a DPF.
Transmission options include a five-speed manual (1.6-litre petrol), six-speed manual (2.0 petrol and both diesels), six-speed automatic (4WD 2.0 dCi) and, uniquely in its class, a highly efficient CVT transmission option on the 4WD 2.0-litre petrol offering a choice between ‘stepless’ changes or a manual over-ride with six fixed ratios.
Equipment
Following the lead set by Qashqai, the new family version is available in three different trim and equipment versions – the now familiar Visia, Acenta and Tekna levels.
Depending on the version, standard equipment includes automatic lighting, automatic wipers, speed sensitive door locking, cruise control, privacy glass, electric windows, parking sensors, 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels and Nissan’s Intelligent Key. Manual or automatic air conditioning incorporates mild flow ventilation while to provide sufficient airflow for the rearmost passengers, a larger compressor is fitted.
Subtle interior mood lighting is available, while all models benefit from ample storage opportunities, including an under seat drawer, large glovebox and door pockets. Also standard are the full-length panoramic glass roof and roof rails.
All audio systems – a single disc CD/radio, an in-dash six disc changer/radio or a full navigation system with in-dash six disc CD autochanger – incorporate Bluetooth hands-free mobile phone integration allowing remote operation of the phone and caller ID display. The audio system also has a standard auxiliary input connection for MP3 players and other external audio devices.
Qashqai+2 is equipped with six airbags (front, side and curtain), seat belt pretensioners in the front and active headrests.
Popular options include embossed leather trim and the advanced satellite navigation system incorporating a seven-inch full colour display (which doubles as the display for the rear parking camera) and voice recognition.
“Qashqai+2 adds a new dimension to the range and makes it even more versatile than the original. It will appeal not just to larger families, but also to anyone who appreciates its distinctive looks and commanding seating position as well as its extra space and flexibility,” says Pierre Loing, Vice President, Product Planning, Nissan Europe.
“While some sales will come from current or potential Qashqai owners, we are confident the majority will be conquest sales from owners currently stuck with a conventional compact MPV: they appreciate the style and dynamism of the original Qashqai but need the extra seats of an MPV… no matter how dull it might be. With Qashqai+2 they can now have the best of both worlds.”
Nissan QASHQAI
Our Nissan QASHQAI Guide lists the full specification of the current UK QASHQAI range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £13,799 - £20,999
Body Style:
Fuel:
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Models in the range: 18
We have road tested the Nissan QASHQAI, to read our in-depth car review:
Nissan QASHQAI Review - Jul 2007
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 6th July 2008
