By Auto reviewman

Nissan’s sleek new Qashqai new subcompact crossover utility vehicle is all new for Canada in 2018, and arrives 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 Nissan claim best-in-class cargo with the rear seats folded. 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. Technology features are high with Bluetooth and a rear-view camera are standard on all trims, Our upscale  SL AWD tester was outfitted with the Platinum package option that added safety features such as: intelligent cruise control, Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, Lane Departure warning, Blind spot warning, Rear cross traffic alert, intelligent lane intervention, LEd headlights and NissanConnect Services with Sirius XM radio   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. Seats are also comfortable and well proportioned. 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’s 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 9.0100km in the city and 7.5L/100km on the highway. Front-drive manual models are rated at 10.0L/100km city and 8.1L/100km highway, and front-drive CVT Qashqai’s can do 8.8L/100km city and 7.3L/100km highway.

With its sleek looks, a wide choice of models with good as standard and optional equipment, the Qashqai is highly a highly attractive option for families. Add the availability of all wheel drive and a manual transmission and Nissan’s reputation for reliability, and it’s a tempting buy. Highly recommended.

2018 Nissan Qashqai base priced from $19,998. Price as tested for SL AWD ($30,298) plus options, freight and PDE – $34,448.