When you need a family car, but want something more powerful and agile than the regular SUV, the all-new Nissan Qashqai (pronounced "Cash-kai") may just be what you're looking for.
Voted "Best SUV" by Topgear Magazine Singapore, the Qashqai blends the outstanding dynamics and stability of an SUV with the driveability and agility of a hatchback.
Along with its powerful exterior design, the Qashqai has been engineered with driving performance in mind. However, what sets it apart from the other SUVs available on the market today are its crisp and stable handling, steering and braking functions.
The exterior
The Qashqai's bold appearing front bumper conveys a sporty impression and a feeling of SUV strength and protection.
If that isn't enough, check out the dynamic character line running from the fender into the roof. The line, together with the wheel arches paints a picture of SUV stability and dynamics.
The interior
On board, the Qashqai's relaxing interior is a surefire winner. You are never made to feel any discomfort with its engaging and ergonomic cockpit as it creates an intimate connection with the driver.
The seats provide a stable sitting posture, even during cornering, to allow for comfortable travel with minimal fatigue on long-distance trips and supple ride comfort on various road surfaces.
Performance
Powering the Qashqai is Nissan's 2-litre MR20DE engine, renowned for its high torque at low-to-medium speeds and quiet operation.
The car's newly developed strut and rear multi-link suspension provide outstanding handling performance combined with a smooth, comfortable ride.
Driving the Qashqai allows for a light steering effort at low speed and provides a direct reassuring steering feel at high speeds due to its vehicle-speed-sensitive electric power steering system.
All Qashqai models are fitted with Nissan's new generation of Xtronic CVT-M6, a continuously variable transmission with a six-speed manual shift mode.
A newly adopted Adaptive Shift Control function adjusts shift timing according to the driver's personal driving style and driving environment. With over 700 shift patterns in its database, it optimises both performance and fuel economy.
The Qashqai comes in two versions - the QASHQAI 2.0 (from $79,000 with COE) and the QASHQAI 2.0 Premium (from $83,500 with COE) and is available at Tan Chong Motor Sales (Tel: 6466 7711 or 6266 7711)
Prices are correct at time of publishing
Nissan Qashqai
Price: From $79,000 with COE
Engine: 1,997cc 16-valve inline-4
Transmission: Continuously variable transmission with six manual slots
Power: 137bhp at 5,200rpm
Torque: 200Nm at 4,400rpm
0-100kmh: 11.4 seconds
Top speed: 175kmh
Fuel consumption: 8 litres/100km (city-highway)
Agent: Tan Chong Motor Sales
