Nissan’s successful Qashqai crossover has been updated for 2010. In addition to revised front end styling and LED tail lamps, the 2010 Qashqai also features the introduction of a continuously-variable transmission, improved refinement and a seven-seat model, Qashqai+2.
With over 500 000 Qashqai’s sold in Europe since its initial introduction in March 2007, and in excess of 5 500 sold locally since the South African launch in August 2007 -the mid-sized crossover has exceeded all sales expectations.
As mentioned above, the most prominent change to the Qashqai’s exterior is up front, with a new bonnet and front bumper supplemented by a distinct new grille and headlamps. At the rear, the new tail lamp design boasts 12 LEDs, inner reflectors, bright chrome graphic, transparent outer lens, and dark chrome finishes.
Interior-wise, Nissan claims to have made the cabin more comfortable thanks to the inclusion of an all-new multi-layer insulation material around the front bulkhead for reduced noise, vibration and harshness and the fitment of an “acoustic” windshield to minimise the transmission of noise.
Additional interior upgrades include a redesigned trip computer positioned between the speedometer and tachometer, footwell illumination and additional oddments storage at the base of the centre hangdown and just below the ventilation controls. The Qashqai+2, increased in size to accommodate a third row of seats, moves more passengers using the same mechanical package as any other model without disrupting the distinctive exterior looks.
“The new Nissan Qashqai and Qashqai+2 continue to offer customers in the growing city crossover segment, even more than what they expect. There’s more refinement, more luxury, more agility and more practicality, in a package which exudes trendy, fun-loving, and downright exuberance for urban life. The Qashqai will remain a dominant force in the market, with the charm and equipment needed to retain its class leadership,” says Johan Kleynhans, director of sales, marketing and after sales at Nissan SA.
Qashqai
1,6 Visia R227 500
1,6 Acenta R248 500
2,0 Acenta R282 500
2,0 Acenta CVT R295 000
2,0 Acenta dCi 4X2 R308 000
2,0 Acenta dCi 4X4 R333 000
Qashqai+2 (available from late May 2010)
1,6 Visia R249,500
2,0 Acenta R303,500
Prices include a three-years/90 000 km service plan and a three-years/100 000 km warranty.
