By Autoreviewman
All new for Canada in 2018, the Qashqai enters the Nissan CUV lineup between the Juke and the popular Nissan Rogue models. The Qashqai arrives in Canada in three trims lines, with a choice of AWD or Front Wheel Drive. Only one engine is offered for now, it is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder rated at a 141 horsepower and 147 lb-ft of torque Pricing for the new Qashqai starts at $19,998 for the S trim with front-wheel drive and six-speed manual transmission, with a CVT automatic optional. As per usual- with Nissan, Technology features are high with Bluetooth and a rear-view camera as standard on all trims, while a seven-inch touch-screen with NissanConnect Navi, comes in at the SL level as we tested. The Qashqai arrives with a number of segment leading as standard and optional high technology driver-assist features. Our tester was outfitted with the Premium Platinum package option that added: Intelligent Emergency Braking. Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Intelligent Lane Intervention, High Beam Assist, Nissan Connect Services and 3-coat paint. Base price for our SL test model was $30,298. Options added another $2,200. Total MRSP with options, freight and PDE came to $34,448.
The Qashqai interior features a cool, neat handsome design. The dashboard in particular is very well executed with a good blend of form and function. Moving to the rear, back seat room is fairly roomy. Cargo space is also very good with – 649 litres available with the seat duo and 1730 seats folded on the S trim. Nissan claim best-in-class cargo with the rear seats folded. Nissans handy underfloor Divide-and-Hide cargo system also adds to the versatility
On the road, the Qashqai offers decent road holding and light, responsive steering. . The four cylinder engine is a smooth unit, and it seems like there have been some improvement in the CVT transmission as it is more refined with smoother transitions. The available AWD automatically varies front/rear torque as required, and also has an AWD Lock feature for low speeds on rougher terrains. Fuel economy wise, the all-wheel-drive, Qashqai with the CVT is rated at 9.0L/100km in the city and 7.5L/100km on the highway. With its good as standard and optional equipment, the Qashqai is highly a highly attractive option for families highly recommended.
2018 Nissan Qashqai priced from $19,998. Price as tested for SL AWD ($30,298) plus options, freight and PDE – $34,448.