The QASHQAI (pronounced Cash Kai), is named after a desert dwelling tribe who live near the Zagros Mountains in South Western Iran. It’s a curious thing, but unless you’ve seen a QASHQAI on the road, it is very difficult to gauge its size from photographs. That can only mean that the designers have fulfilled their brief, which was to create a crossover vehicle that has all the benefits of an SUV, such as a high driving position, and the looks, comfort and feel of a hatchback, while not taking up too much road space. In fact the QASHQAI has a similar footprint as the Ford Focus which is a fair indication of its size.Engine entry level starts with a 1.6 115PS model which gives you 2-wheel drive and a 5-speed manual transmission. The 2.0 140PS engine offers a 6-speed gearbox or easy-going CVT, in both 2- or 4-wheel drive. There are also highly efficient diesel engines starting with a 1.5 dCi 106PS engine offering 2-wheel drive with a 6-speed gearbox, along with low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Feeling more adventurous? The state of the art 2.0 dCi 150 PS model is also available in 4-wheel drive, with auto or manual transmission.
The driver gets a height-adjustable seat and a steering wheel that adjusts for height and reach, giving fine levels of comfort. The seats give excellent support, too. The controls are logically placed and the high seating position offers a commanding view. Air conditioning is standard across the Qashqai range (Acenta and Tekna models come with dual-zone electronic climate control), and all have electric windows and electrically adjustable door mirrors. The cabin is airy and roomy, and a panoramic glass roof is optional on Acenta models and standard on Tekna. The boot is big for the class, and it's well shaped, too.
Nissan has spent a great deal of effort in ensuring the Qashqai drives like a conventional car. Although it has been designed in the mould of a 4x4, it has exceptional body control and easily copes with a series of tight bends, retaining its composure when changing direction and providing good feedback from the steering. While the steering is light at parking speeds, there is much more weight and feel as the car speeds up. The suspension soaks up the vast majority of bumps on the road from low-speed traffic-calming humps to sudden pot holes on A-roads. The Qashqai is excellent value for money taking account of the equipment fitted as standard.
