The Qashqai comes with a more dynamic design

The second generation Nissan Qashqai has significant improvements right from the safety and multi-media technology to its body.

Premium technology, second generation crossover design and enhanced dynamics all combine to form the backbone of the new Nissan Qashqai.
Uganda was the third African country to launch the Qashqai in October this year after South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Labelled the ultimate urban experience, the Nissan Qashqai is longer than the current model and fractionally lower and wider, giving it a sleek, poised stance while maintaining the crossover style, compact dimensions and raised driving position. Distinctive features -including a clamshell-style bonnet- lend a premium appearance while retaining the Nissan Qashqai strong visual characteristics.
Inside, a dramatic rise in material and design quality adds significant interior appeal to the package.
Versatility also remains a core attribute; the engineers devised innovative ways to make the Qashqai fit into drivers’ lives. Delivering greater occupant space and a larger luggage capacity.

ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION

Produced at the Nissan plant in England, the Qashqai arrives in Uganda with a four-model range supported by a 2.0-litre petrol engine and two trim lines. Efficient, modern, trendy and energetic in its execution, it is not just a reworked original with a renewed lease on life.
The Qashqai also offers enhanced efficiency through an extensive mass reduction programme, resulting in 40kg weight loss on some models despite the extensive addition of new equipment.
The car is available with the 2.0-litre direct injection petrol engine, which was seen in the first generation model as well. The power and torque was improved to 103kW (144hp) at 6,000 rpm and 196Nm (20.4kg-m) at 4400 rpm with a 2.5 per cent improvement in fuel economy.
The 2.0-litre engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, 2WD as well as a XTRONIC CVT option in 2WD and AWD with ALL MODE 4x4-i.

PLUSES

The first generation Nissan Qashqai’s design and innovative approach was key to making it a global success.
The new version sets a new benchmark for crossover design, featuring a striking new look with powerful curves, clean lines and intricate details, taking Nissan’s iconic crossover to the next level.
Keeping everything fresh, the bold new design is fronted by the prominent Nissan V-motion grille, supported by angular headlights and an aggressive front bumper with a deep air dam for a purposeful look. All models are also characterised by new boomerang LED lights which create a light signature.
At the rear, a pert tail gate is flanked by strong wrap-around tail light clusters with LED elements and a sophisticated bumper design which rounds off the sport utility vehicle (SUV) appeal.

SAFETY

AAchieving five stars in the increasingly stringent European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP) crash tests, safety was paramount when developing the new Qashqai. All models carry the highest complement of safety equipment as standard, including four-disc Antilock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist System, driver and passenger airbags for Visia models and additional side and curtain airbags on Acenta models, Vehicle Dynamic Control, which incorporates traction control, hill start assistance, an electric parking brake, three-point seat belts for all five seats and an international standard for child safety seats, ISOFIX child seat anchor points. All models also feature a full-size 16-inch spare wheel.

ENHANCED FEATURES

Visia models include standard feature highlights like halogen head lights, LED lights, electrically-adjustable door mirrors, graphite cloth trim, driver and passenger seatback pockets, 17-inch alloy wheels, a 5-inch full-colour Advanced Drive-Assist Display, which includes several information readouts as well as access to customisable vehicle settings, selectable steering (Normal/Sport mode), remote central locking, a fully-compatible audio system AM/FM radio/CD with MP3, USB, auxiliary jack and iPod compatibility with four speakers, two cup holders, four bottle holders and manual air conditioning.
The Acenta 2WD models ramp up the features list considerably with the addition of 19-inch alloy wheels as standard, front fog lights, electric folding door mirrors, silver finish roof rails, privacy glass, a leather steering wheel and gear lever, six speakers, intelligent key with push button start, steering wheel controls including cruise control, hands-free Bluetooth, 5-inch audio screen with 6 speakers, dual-zone climate control, cushioned knee pads with illumination, and an additional two cup holders for the rear seats.
Automatic LED headlights with automatic leveliser, rain sensing wipers, heated leather seats, an electric anti-dazzle rear view mirror and a panoramic glass roof are additional features found on the Acenta AWD models. For pricing, check with Motorcare on Jinja road in Kampala.