The 2021 Nissan Qashqai has been unveiled. The third generation model is the first model in Europe to use the Alliance CMF-C platform, which represents a state-of-the-art automotive structure and technology architecture.
The Qashqai is expected to arrive in UK dealerships before summer. It will likely command a slight premium over the current car, which is priced from £23,550. There is no news from the Indian counterpart on the launch of Kashqai in India.
Exterior
On the exterior, the 2021 Nissan Qashqai looks more purposeful, with prominent shoulder lines, an extended wheelbase and imposing 20-inch alloy wheels. The wheelbase of the car has increased by +20mm with the overall length increasing +35mm. There’s a marginal increase in height (+25mm) and width has increased +32mm for improved presence on the road.
The front end sports an enlarged Nissan V-Motion grille, finished in chrome with a secondary pinstripe of satin chrome. This is flanked by slim, full LED advanced matrix headlamps with boomerang signature daylight running lights. Air curtains under the headlights further widen the front aspect.
On the rear lights, there’s also graduated ‘raindrop’ grain optics which create a 3D lighting effect and give a futuristic impression.
Interior
On the inside a new 9.0in high-definition multimedia touchscreen replaces the outgoing car’s 7.0in unit, while a 10.8in head-up display is said to be the largest in its segment. Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa bring voice control functionality, and the NissanConnect smartphone app allows remote control of certain functions including the horn, lights and central locking.
Forward visibility has been improved with repositioned door mirrors, thinner A-pillars and a wider windscreen opening angle. In the rear there’s an additional 28mm of knee room for passengers, thanks to increase in wheelbase. Boot capacity is also up, by 50 litres, courtesy of a revised rear suspension layout which allows for a lower cargo floor.
Engine
The 2021 Nissan Qashqai will be available with a choice of two electrified petrol powertrains.
The 1.3-petrol motor will be offered with two power outputs – 138hp and 156hp – with either a 6-speed manual transmission, or new Xtronic gearbox (156hp only). Max engine power arrives at 5500rpm, with maximum available torque of 270Nm at a convenient 1750rpm on 156hp Xtronic and high power MT variants.
The new Qashqai’s e-POWER system is comprised of a high-output battery and powertrain integrated with a category-leading variable compression ratio 154hp petrol engine, power generator, inverter and 140kW electric motor of similar size and power output as found in Nissan’s electric vehicles.
The unique element of the e-Power is that the petrol engine is used solely to generate electricity, whilst the wheels are completely driven by the electric motor.
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