Nissan Qashqai is a small SUV big on value
UNLIKELY to cause as much excitement as a full set of those ridiculous miniatures from Woolworths, the compact Nissan Qashqai line-up is complete.
That price puts the top-shelf Qashqai, pronounced "cash-ky" for those confused, within stretching distance of lower grade prestige variants like the Audi Q2 or Infiniti Q30, but right in the mix against the best compact SUV offerings including the Mazda CX-3 Akari, Toyota C-HR Koba and Hyundai Kona Highlander.
VALUE
Nothing is left on the options list, and for the slightly pricey jump over the base ST model you get the special leather 3D quilted seats with electric adjustment for the front two chairs, keyless entry with push-button start, seven-inch colour touchscreen with satnav and digital radio, panoramic sunroof, as well as dual-zone aircon.
The Qashqai was updated in December when Nissan introduced more sound-deadening materials and improved use of soft-touch materials.
Stop-gap N-Tec models are still being phased out and while they are equipped similarly, the Ti adds the better seats, radar cruise control and functionality that can steer the car if it starts to wander outside the lane without indication.
Servicing intervals are every 10,000km or annual.
The warranty is short by mainstream standards at three years or 100,000km, with roadside assist for the same period. Kia leads the way with seven and unlimited kilometres, while Hyundai, Mazda and Volkswagen (selected models) offer coverage for five years.
An extended warranty deal is available for another three years as long as it hasn't covered more than 150,000km.
DRIVING
Across the range is the standard four-cylinder petrol engine and unfortunately, the Ti doesn't gain any additional zip.
That doesn't mean it's a slowcoach. The continuously variable transmission works well in tandem with the engine (often those transmissions can sound whinier than Phil Gould) but it lacks some punch for those who like more urgency under their right foot.
With a firm ride, it borders on sporty, although it mostly feels adequate in most departments - doing its intended job as a family-hauler reasonably well.
Looking the part, the Qashqai has European appeal, especially impressive with the blue external colour scheme and the 19-inch diamond-cut alloys. Other colour options are various shades of grey, red, black and white.
Boot space is impressive by compact SUV standards and good enough for a couple of large suitcases.
Drop the rear seats and the 430-litre space expands to just shy of 1600.
SAFETY
Only available on this Ti model, the radar cruise control function can maintain the Qashqai's position behind vehicles at three pre-set distances that can be set by the driver.
While it works, the Qashqai system felt like it was operating in waves of momentum when following slower cars ... not something we've experienced before with Nissans and we'll take it as an aberration rather than the rule.
It also comes with autonomous emergency braking which can apply the brakes to avoid or lessen an oncoming accident, front and rear parking sensors, 360-degree camera view, blind-spot warning, automatic high beam and rear cross-traffic alert.
VERDICT
Sitting atop the range, the top-shelf Qashqai Ti, from Group 1 Nissan, is a contributor rather than a star player in a competitive SUV arena. Looking good and with reliable performance, the Qashqai SUV meets expectations.
AT A GLANCE
NISSAN QASHQAI Ti
ENGINE 2.0-litre 4-cyl, 106kW/200Nm
SAFETY 5 stars, 6 airbags, AEB, lane departure warning, surround cameras with rear object detection
THIRST 6.9L/100km
SPARE Space-saver
BOOT 430L, 1598L (seats down)
Article source: https://thenissanfan.home.blog/2020/01/08/nissan-qashqai-is-a-small-suv-big-on-value/
Posted on January 8th, 2020
2021 Nissan Patrol/Armada Caught Testing In The Middle East
It’s been a long time since Nissan gave us a new Armada and an even longer one for a new Nissan Patrol.
Nissan has been selling the current generation of the full-size Armada SUV in North America since 2016, which in turn is a rebadged version of the Patrol that’s been around since 2010 – that is, edging its retirement.
The Japanese company’s upcoming full-size SUV is expected to retain the current 5.6-liter petrol V8 modified for better efficiency. Since the key markets for the Patrol/Armada are still the US and the Middle East, Nissan doesn’t consider electrification, at least according to our reports.
Nissan apparently feels that adding a battery pack and electric motors isn’t going to help the case of its full-size SUV, as customers are less keen on saving fuel and the extra components will add more weight to an already heavy vehicle. However, and since this is based on rumors, it won’t be a huge surprise if Nissan goes ahead and offers its biggest SUV with either a hybrid or a plug-in hybrid powertrain, at least in certain markets, to reduce its emissions footprint. The engine range will also include a V6 option, but we still don’t know if it’ll be a naturally aspirated or turbocharged unit.
The design of the new model will stay faithful to the Patrol’s rugged character, albeit with a much-needed injection of modern detailing, including LED lights, and a new take on Nissan’s front grille.
Finally, according to Almuraba, Nissan is expected to reveal the new Patrol in 2020, with sales to commence in 2021 at Group 1 Nissan dealerships nationwide.
Article source: https://nissandriversclub.blogspot.com/2019/10/2021-nissan-patrolarmada-caught-testing.html
Posted on October 1st, 2019
Nissan Navara Off-roader AT32 Double Cab: ‘Properly uncompromising’
Depth charge: ‘What really sets the AT32 apart is the optional snorkel air intake which winds itself up the right flank of the car like a giant black periscope’
Nissan Navara Off-roader AT32 Double Cab
Top speed 114mph
0-62mph 10.8 seconds
MPG 44.9
CO2 167g/km
We all have certain codes by which we live. These are mine: always go upstairs on a double-decker bus; always order crème brûlée if it’s on the menu and I always, always drive through a ford if at all possible. This has led to some hairy moments, like when water poured through the boot of an old Fiat 127 or a posh Audi A6 was left spluttering for days after gulping filthy water when I nosed out of its depth.
But there was no danger of that happening this week. The word "car" doesn’t really do the Nissan Navara justice. It is a colossal mountain of metal – and this latest model, the AT32, is the most extreme, most pumped-up, most gym-honed version of the 4x4 yet.
The AT stands for Arctic Trucks – an Icelandic firm famous for building properly uncompromising and resolutely indestructible all-terrain vehicles to cope with the wilds of its home country. Now it has gone into partnership with Nissan and converted the Navara double-cab into this jaw-on-the-floor pick-up. Arctic Trucks are graded by their increasingly outrageous tyres: the AT32 has whopping 32-inchers. Conversions done for Isuzu and Toyota are even chunkier, with 35-inchers which, even in this muscle-bound off-road universe, seems a little over the top.
As well as the huge wheels, compared to a regular Navara, you get boosted suspension and improved ground clearance. To keep the more delicate workings of your precious baby safe, much of the underside of the AT32 is armoured with steel skid plates, so that no matter how scenic the route you choose your engine, fuel tank and transmission will be protected. With its massive arches and glinting chrome roll bars, the AT32 is an intimidating spectacle. It’s more gladiator than a service vehicle. But what really sets it apart is the optional snorkel air intake which winds itself up the right flank of the car like a giant black periscope. This costs an extra £1,440 and means you can wade through water up to 800mm deep. Its high position also helps filter out dusty air in more arid environments.
How necessary is wading for your average motorist? It’s totally irrelevant – unless you happen to be a gamekeeper or maybe a reservoir engineer. But you’ll be surprised to learn that in the UK there are 2,214 fords. Wetroads.co.uk lists all of them. The site is a work of lifelong dedication by Professor Lee Chapman and his directory is a guide to every identified ford, water splash and tidal road. It was this last one that I sailed across in the Navara, stopping midway to marvel as the waters of the swollen River Ebble flowed round us.
The AT32 is bursting with aids to make life easier and safer for you and your passengers. There are hill descent control and hill start assist. It has active brake limited slip which boosts grip by braking slipping wheels which transfers power and torque to the wheels that do have traction. There are three-mode 4WD modes and full parking cameras. All of this is powered by a mighty 190hp 2.3-litre twin-turbo diesel. It’s built to tame green lanes, rocky trails, and craggy passes, but copes well with smooth roads, too. During a week in which I covered more than 800 miles, my real-world consumption was over 38mpg which, in a fully-loaded vehicle of this size, was impressive. And how many other cars have you driven which you can take for a drive and a swim?
Article source: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2019/jan/06/nissan-navara-off-roader-at32-double-cab-properly-uncompromising-review
Posted on September 30th, 2019
Nissan X-Trail moves upmarket with new looks and tech
Nissan has updated its top-selling X-Trail SUV with a freshly restyled front end, upgraded interiors, and the first generation of what it calls Nissan Intelligent Mobility, an interesting mix of existing driver-aid technology with some new tweaks in its applications.
Nissan SA boss, Xavier Gobille, confirmed at the SA launch this week that Nissan, along with every other manufacturer on the planet, has accepted the reality that someday all cars will drive themselves, but explained that for now ‘intelligent mobility’ means helping you to be a better and safer driver without taking over your job.
The only autonomous functions on the Nissan X-Trail are emergency braking and automatic headlight dipping when it detects oncoming traffic, backed by a host of warning and driver info functions, including blind spot warning (alerts you to the presence of vehicles in blind spots diagonally behind the car), lane departure warning (discreet little beep when you stray over the lane markings), cross traffic alert (warns you of oncoming vehicles while you’re backing out of a parking space or driveway) and forward collision warning, which warns you of an impending rear-ender with a slower moving or stationary vehicle.
A four-camera around view monitor with moving object detection shows you nearby obstacles or peoples and uses the familiar park assist direction lines to show you exactly where the car is going to go with the steering in its current position, accurately enough to navigate a maze with the windshield blacked out - once you’ve learned to trust the system!
At the same time, Nissan SA has extended the local line-up from six to eight derivatives covering three engines, two transmissions, front or all-wheel drive, five or seven seats and four levels of interior trim. All of which, other than the trim levels which we’ll unpack in detail later, are self-explanatory if you look at the price chart below, and remember that CVT stands for constantly variable belt transmission.
What’s new, Pussycat?
The front-end facelift emphasises Nissan’s bold new ‘V-Motion’ tapered grille and bumper shape, extending at the top to the inner edges of the re-shaped headlight clusters, with their distinctive LED daytime running lights. Integrated front fog-lights, LED tail-lights and a new rear bumper complete the look.
The interior has been restyled to give it a more classy look and feel, with more upmarket materials on the places you touch, such as the steering wheel, door panels, centre console and seat fabric.
Upscale leather-trimmed models get a new flat-bottomed steering wheel with enough satellite controls to confuse a shuttle pilot, white contrast stitching and a revised centre console and decadently luxurious new padding under the leather trim of the centre armrest.
What you get:
The entry-level Visia trim comes with a tilt and reach adjustable steering column, manual aircon, electric windows and mirrors, electric parking brake, hill hold a four-speaker radio/CD/MP3 player with USB and AUX ports, heated/cooled front cupholders, three 12-volt sockets, a rear centre armrest with cupholder and new 17 inch alloy rims.
The Acenta specification adds front fog lights, roof rails, leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear knob, upmarket six-speaker sound, dual-zone climate control, hill descent control and 19-inch alloys.
The Acenta Plus trim has all that plus leather upholstery with four-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat, while the range-topping Tekna ices the cake with the intelligent mobility package and an 18cm centre colour display for the satnav and around view cameras.
Motorvation
The engines are unchanged from the previous model, starting with the two-litre petrol four, rated for 106kW at 6000 revs and 200Nm at 4400, driving the front wheels via a six-speed manual ‘box.
The 1.6 dCi turbodiesel four is good for a quoted 96kW at 4000 revs and 320Nm at 1750rpm, still with noticeable turbo lag even at the coast, channelled through a six-speed manual to either front-wheel (Visia) or all-wheel (Tekna) final drive.
And the range-topping 2.5 petrol four, dishing out 126kW at 6000 revs and 233Nm at 4000 rpm, still drives all four via CVT, with a sport setting that holds at predetermined points to make it feel like an auto transmission.
Prices include a six-year or 150 000km warranty and a three-year or 90 000km service plan. For pricing specifications or to test drive the new X-Trail - visit your nearest Group 1 Nissan dealership.
Article source: https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/nissan-x-trail-moves-upmarket-with-new-look-tech-11714337
Posted on May 23rd, 2019
10 facts about the Nissan Almera you didn’t know
If you are thinking of finding a Nissan Almera, we have ten interesting facts about the Almera you might not have known. Here you will find interesting tidbits of information that includes everything from the model’s many names to its makeovers and the features and specs of the newest Almera.
The Alméras Name
Alméras is the family name of French racing car drivers during the eighties. Famous French racers with this last name include Phillippe Alméras, who competed in both the 2001 and 2002 French Formula Renault championships, Jacques Alméras and Jean-Marie Alméras.
All of its names
The Almera is known by a couple of other names across the globe. Called the Nissan Pulsar from 1995 to 2000, it is known as the Nissan Sentra in New Zealand and, from 2000 to 2006, it was known as the Nissan Bluebird Sylphy. The N15 Pulsar was launched in 1995 and sold in Europe as the Almera.
The first generation N15 Almera for sale
Manufactured from 1995 to 2000, the very first Nissan Almera hit the streets in late 1995. It was the Nissan Sunny (N14) replacement and was almost identical to the Nissan Pulsar (N15) which was sold in Japan at that time. The differences between the Pulsar and the Almera for sale at that time included a petrol engine range as well as different trim options.
Engine types available during this period included the petrol 1.4 Si GA14DE, the petrol 1.6 Sri GA16DE and the diesel 2.0 GTi SR20DE.
The first facelift
In 1998 the Almera received its first makeover. For the Si and Sri, the front bumpers received a redesign and front splitters were added. The GTi has a standard all-around body kit and the lip spoilers boasted integrated brake lights. The front indicators of this model and the headlights also featured black surrounds.
The GTi’s body kit was also made studier and was altered to feature a more subtle look. A rear splitter, as well as vents, were added to the GTi. Interestingly enough, Phase 1 (pre-makeover) GTi had thin, brittle, plastic splitters, hence the more studier Phase 2 (post-makeover) body kit.
It is also not uncommon to find a Phase 1 GTi sporting Phase 2 bumpers or even no splitter at all.
The second generation N16 Nissan Almera
Rolling out onto the streets in 2000, the second generation Nissan Almera had curvier and smoother lines than the first generation. This Nissan was the first vehicle based on Nissan’s global MS-Platform. Also known as the M&S Platform and the FF-S platform, it is a platform for front wheel drive vehicles that share floor panels, transmission, engine and chassis parts and components.
The models that were part of the Nissan MS-Platform during that time included the Nissan Almera Tino, The Nissan Sunny (or Sentra) and the Nissan Bluebird Sylphy G10, to name but a few examples.
2000 – 2006 Almera Models
During this time there were three different body styles available – this included the 3 or 5 door hatchback, a 4 door saloon Almera. Engine options included a 1.8 or 1.5 QC petrol engine, and a 2.2 direct injected turbo-diesel or common rail turbo-diesel.
The five-door hatchback Almera was exported from the United Kingdom to New Zealand and Australia. Here the Almera formed part of the Nissan Pulsar (N16) collection of vehicles being sold. Note that the sedan of this time was based on the Bluebird Sylphy but featured a different style front.
While the N16 Almera for sale boasted a number of stunning improvements (as seen in its improved tyre grip and handling), there were some complaints. Though it had a bigger boot, there was a decrease in legroom for rear passengers – this was due to the shorter wheelbase which measured in at 2.53 metres.
The Second Facelift
With 2003 swinging into action, the Nissan Almera got another makeover. Some of the upgrades for the Almera’s of that time include the return of the MacPherson Strut front suspension as well as Nissan’s multi-link rear suspension.
Visually, the Almera was turned into a hot little number boasting the addition of chrome, projector-like headlights. Other additions for the 2003 facelift included a new grille, circular fog lights (but only for some models) and even an engine air intake that was integrated into the front bumper.
The interior also got its fair share of beautification featuring the use of higher quality materials as well as a colour screen ‘control centre’ from where you could control all your Almera’s awesome functions.
Building the made-over Nissan Almera
Sold as the Nissan Pulsar in the Asia-Pacific, the made-over Almera was manufactured in the United Kingdom and, more specifically, in Sunderland, a city forming part of Tyne and Wear in North East England.
The Almera was also being sold in Mexico – the available models here included a five-door manual five-speed model, a three-door sport version (that came with a five-speed manual transmission, curtain airbags at the side and fog lamps) and a five-door three-speed automatic comfort Almera.
Other Almera versions
In 2007 and 2008 the Nissan Tiida was introduced into several countries as a replacement for the Almera. An interesting fact to note here is that the Tiida is not officially imported into the UK, but is available for sale through the Arnold Clark dealership network since March of 2009. These models for sale in the UK are sourced from Ireland.
Based on the Nissan Bluebird Sylphy N16, the Renault Samsung SM3 was made in South Korea and sold as the second generation of the Almera.
After undergoing a makeover in 2005, it was sold from 2006 as the Almera Classic (in the Ukraine and Russia), the Almera B10 (in Venezuela, Central America and Ecuador) and the Sunny B10 (in the Middle East). In Chile, it was sold as the Samsung SM3 and in Mexico, Columbia, Egypt and Libya it was sold as the Renault Scala.
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October of 2011 saw Nissan release an economical saloon model for the Eco-car project in Thailand – it was named the Nissan Almera and was basically a revised version of the Nissan Latio N17. The Latio was launched in 2013 as the Almera in Malaysia and the Philippines.
In Russia, the Almera, which was based on the 2005 Nissan Bluebird Sylphy G11, was launched in August of 2012. With the same design styles as the Bluebird Sylphy, it did feature a redesigned dashboard. These models released had a 1.6 petrol engine with a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. This model is manufactured in Russia at the AvtoVAZ plant.
The New Nissan Almera
Finally arriving at the newest Nissan Almera for sale in South Africa, our country’s stunning model feature tons of awesome goodies that include tech, performance and safety features. Only two petrol models are for sale in South Africa – the 1.5
Acenta MT and the 1.5 Acenta AT.
Equipped with a multi-function drive computer, you get all the information you need – when you want and when you need it – by simply looking at your display. From your fuel consumption to the distance you can still cover on the fuel you have, the Almera is even equipped with a rear parking sensor.
In terms of safety, these Nissan cars have ABS, EBS (Electronic Brake-Force Distribution) and halogen headlights. These models also come with a Supplement Restraint System (SRS), enhanced safety technology in the form of an advanced zone body construction, and ISOFIX (giving you anchor points for child restraint).
This Almera for sale at Group 1 Nissan also has a boot capacity of 490 litres and is available in six different colours. In terms of dimensions, it has an overall length of 4 425 millimetres, a ground clearance of 160 millimetres, an overall width of 1 695 millimetres, and overall height of 1 505 millimetres and a wheelbase of 2 600 millimetres (70 millimetres longer than the wheelbase of the Almera models produced during 2000 to 2006).
Almera 1.5 Acenta MT | Almera 1.5 Acenta AT | |
Maximum Power | 73 kW @ 6000 rpm | 73 kW @ 6000 rpm |
Maximum Torque | 134 Nm @ 4000 rpm | 134 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
CO2 Emissions | 149 g / km | 171 g / km |
Combined Fuel Consumption | 6.3 litre / 100 km | 7.2 litre / 100 km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 41 litres | 41 litres |
Posted on May 23rd, 2019
Nissan JUKE adds sparkle
Small city-SUV gets three personalisation packs and subtle range-wide enhancements for 2018
In an effort to keep the uniquely-designed, British-built Nissan JUKE fresh, the pint-size SUV is now available with three customisation packages.
However, they’re only available for the most expensive JUKE variant, the Ti-S, although all models come with subtle design updates for 2018.
The Tokyo Glossy Black, Power Blue and Energy Orange option packs — dubbed myJUKE — add more eye candy via uniquely coloured front and rear bumpers, mirror caps and alloy wheel inserts, plus colour matched interior parts including air-vents, door panels, centre console and stitching.
But while the myJUKE extras are only offered on top-shelf Nissan JUKE Ti-S models, the entry-level manual-only Nissan JUKE ST also gets a few new bits and bobs as part of a range-wide update.
That means a slightly different shade for the grille, while the headlights, tail-lights and indicators now have a street-savvy look with smoked lenses and the fog lights are now LED.
Inside, all models also get white (rather than orange) instrument panel backlighting and JUKE Ti-S models also get new glossy black 18-inch alloy wheels. There are also two new exterior paint colours — Vivid Blue and Arctic White — on top of the five regulars.
The entry-level Nissan JUKE ST is powered by a compact 1.2-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine (85kW/190Nm) with claimed fuel consumption of just 5.6L/100km.
Standard features on the ST include LED daytime running lights, leather-accented steering wheel and gear shifter and climate control. But there is no autonomous emergency (AEB), even for the top Ti-S version.
The JUKE Ti-S gets more fruit, with push-button engine start, a 5.8-inch touch-screen display, sat-nav with real-time traffic updates, auto-folding side mirrors, heated seats, digital radio, lane departure and blind-spot warning, and a 360-degree surround view camera system.
The pricier JUKE Ti-S also gets a higher-performance 1.6-litre turbo-petrol engine (140kW/240Nm) shared with the Renault Clio RS hot hatch. It uses fuel at the rate of 6.0L/100km, claims Nissan. The automatic (CVT) JUKE Ti-S also gets all-wheel drive, while the manuals are front-drive.
Like every new Nissan, all JUKE models come with a three-year/100,000km warranty, which is less than the five- and seven-year warranties now offered by the majority of mainstream brands in Australia.
Nissan Australia managing director, Stephen Lester, said the updated JUKE "…attracts a buyer that wants something that is a little different.
"An assortment of subtle but stylish updates will make the Nissan JUKE more contemporary in look, while the myJUKE personalisation pack options are designed to help the vehicle stand out from the crowd," said Lester.
Posted on March 27th, 2019
Nissan Qashqai review – Our favourite SUV gets a mid-life facelift
I saw Britain’s most popular SUV in its natural habitat the other day; parked in a bus stop outside a school, hazard lights on and doors open, with a harassed mum haranguing two pre-teen lads about football kit. One of them was proclaiming his innocence waving his breakfast pop tart, before a golden Labrador leant out of the boot and gently eased it out of his grasp.
Anti-dog theft tech is one thing they haven’t developed for the Nissan Qashqai at the company’s technical centre at Cranfield. It has, however, done just about everything else for this school-run champion, which regularly features in the UK top 10 best-sellers list.
It’s had 360-degree cameras for years before the opposition, it was predominately front-wheel drive at a time when rivals were still sweating over driving all four wheels and it’s been sold pretty much round the world in largely the same form.
Yet somehow the opposition, even when markedly superior, hasn’t been able to lay a glove on it. Last year the UK mid-sized SUV market was worth 466,000 vehicles and Nissan was market leader with sales of 41,943, 30 percent more than its nearest rival, Ford's Kuga, and 46 per cent more than the third-placed Kia Sportage.
The Qashqai hit a Mumsnet sweet spot, just at a time when the mums were getting really fed up with driving multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) that seemed like a state of fertility on wheels; that's a market that barely exists these days, which bears out the adage "mum knows best".
The first generation Qashqai replaced the Primera family saloon in 2006 which lasted until 2013, although the lack of rear space meant that in 2008 Nissan developed a longer version known as +2. The second generation two Qashqai was launched in 2013 in just one body size and is built in China, Russia, Japan and the UK at Nissan’s Tyne and Wear plant.
You could accuse them of being a bit lazy, but there’s no requirement to reinvent the wheel here. A minute after plipping the locks and walking away, I couldn’t actually tell you what a Qashqai looks like, it’s generic school-run SUV to the point where there’s actually nothing on it that marks it out. Perhaps that’s what folk want.
With Brexit looming and Renault Nissan Alliance boss Carlos Ghosn already beating the war drums about Nissan’s UK plants, it’s not surprising that even the smallest change to the Qashqai is regarded as news. After all, Sunderland employs 40,000 staff making the Juke, Leaf and Qashqai. It's built three million Qashqais and sold them to 100 countries and it puts tons into research and development as well as training new engineers for real, well-paid jobs.
Nissan has been clever to keep the Qashqai pepped up for repeat customers, around 65 percent of them from the fleet sector and with 20 percent of all sales going into the UK's Motability Scheme.
Last year it got a host of new design details and upgrades to the handling and ride. This year it’s the turn of the engines, the adoption of the Alliance's 1.5 dCi turbo diesel engine, with a 1.7-litre unit arriving next year to go with an all-wheel-drive version (this will be the last-ever diesel to be fitted to a Qashqai) and this, a new, British-built 1.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which replaces the previous 1.2- and 1.6-litre petrol units.
The 1.3 is part of a family of engines under development with Renault-Nissan and partner Daimler-Benz and is already fitted in the Mercedes A-class; a three-cylinder is also under development. Nissan’s nominal cylinder capacity for this new family is 333cc, which means a 1.3-litre needs to be four cylinder. It’s an interesting choice; Peugeot’s equivalent is 400cc and BMW’s half a litre, which many think is too big, though Ford has also adopted 500cc for its latest series of 1.5-litre, three-cylinder Ecoboost engines in the Focus.
The engines comes in two versions; 138bhp (140PS) and 158bhp (160PS) and has a couple of transmissions: six-speed manual and a seven-speed, twin-clutch, semi-automatic. The latter is a Getrag unit which is scalable and first saw service with the Renault-Nissan Alliance in the Renault Clio RS then the Scenic; the latter provided the benchmark on the Qashqai’s development.
Inside, last year's new additions make it a quieter, calmer cockpit, although it's evident that Nissan does a lot with very little in there, making up for cheaper materials and a lack of colour with a curvaceous design and lots of texture changes.
Yet there's an undeniable quality of construction and a high-quality zing about the interior; the way the dials spin, the precision of the instruments, the neatness of the upholstery and the facia's mating surfaces, Nissan really does make the best of what it's got here. The provision of space isn't bad, too. The rear seats have only adequate head and leg room but the boot, at 430/1,598 litres, is plenty big enough for a family.
The little petrol engine is quiet and docile at idle - they've worked hard on refinement and noise, and it shows. However, the turbo has to work hard to wring this amount of power out of such a small-capacity unit, and the 160PS version in particular surges in the mid-range and has an abrupt on/off power delivery which even the new, electrically-actuated turbo wastegate fails to solve. Don't be beguiled by the numbers, the 140PS engine is much the better unit; smoother, quieter and less manic. You miss out on some of the top end, but you aren't missing much.
The six-speed manual gearbox is fast and light but the twin-clutch semi-auto isn't such a triumph. It's a tall order to configure software for a twin-clutch transmission bolted to a small-capacity turbo engine producing well in excess of 100bhp per litre and while I’ve every reason to suppose it’s passed all its tests and exams, the DCT gearbox was abrupt, especially when changing down at low speed, with audible thumps and clunks.
Other testers reported that several units were as bad, but that some were better in this regard, which suggests a variability which will strike terror into the hearts of Nissan's metronomic production engineers.
On the Catalan launch roads the Qashqai's ride balance seemed a trifle harsh until I discovered it was running on 19-inch high-performance Michelin Sport Pilot tyres. So that crashing through pot holes and scalpel-like carving into corners isn't what a standard car will do and we know from experience that the Qashqai has a firm but well-balanced ride quality on typical roads.
There's a lightness about the front end which is pleasing and the electronically-assisted steering is well weighted, even if it doesn't feel particularly well matched to the suspension characteristics.
Nissan Qashqai – specifications
Nissan Qashqai 1.3 140PS Tekna six-speed manual
POWER/TORQUE 138bhp @ 5,000rpm, 177lb ft @ 1,600rpm
TOP SPEED 120mph
ACCELERATION 0-62mph in 10.5sec
FUEL ECONOMY 53.3mpg/42.8mpg EU Urban/Combined. 37.2mpg on test
CO2 EMISSIONS 121g/km
VERDICT
The Nissan Qashqai is all in all a great mid-size SUV. To really know if it’s your type of car - give it a test drive and get a good feel of the driving experience, convenience features and overal interior and exterior impression. You can book a test drive at your nearest Group 1 Nissan dealership - it’s as simple as a click here and you’ll start it up there.
Posted on February 25th, 2019
Let’s Talk About the Epic Nissan NV350 Panel Van
In a segment that is seemingly becoming just as competitive as the SUV market, Nissan has entered the LCV panel van market with the introduction of the NV200 and NV350.
The NV200 is a compact panel van that offers clever packaging, good specification levels and extends Nissan reach with its choice of two engines and low cost of ownership.
The two engines powering the NV200 consist of an 1.6-litre petrol (NV200 1.6i Visia with 81kW/153Nm) and a new turbocharged 1.5-litre diesel (NV200 1.5 dCi Visia with 66kW/200Nm). These two powertrains are mated to a five-speed manual transmission powering the front wheels. Nissan claims fuel economy and emissions of 7.2 litres/100km and 166g/km for the petrol, while the diesel model will sip just 4.9 litres/100km and emit 129g/km of Co2.
One of the interior highlights is the 2.8-inch multi-information screen inside the instrument binnacle that provides the driver with a multitude of information, including a gear-shift indicator to aid economical driving. Standard equipment on both models includes remote central locking, air conditioning, tilt-adjustable steering and two speakers with a roof-mounted antenna in a radio-ready setup.
The NV200 panel van offers a class-leading total cargo volume of 4.2 cubic metres. It can swallow two Euro pallets or almost 800kg thanks to its wide-opening doors. It also features sliding doors on either side of the vehicle to aid easier loading. The front passenger seat can also be folded flat to open up space for objects of up to 2.8 metres in length to be loaded.
A choice of either a petrol or diesel engine will power the Nissan NV350. Both are mated to a five-speed manual transmission.
The Narrow Body with a low roof and Wide Body with a high roof will be powered by a 2.5-litre petrol engine producing 108kW and 213Nm of torque. Claimed fuel consumption between the models will range from 11.8 litres/100km to 12.5 litres/100km and emissions from 282g/km to 300g/km.
The Wide Body with a high roof is also available with a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel motor that generates 95kW and 356Nm of torque. It is claimed to sip just 8.3 litres/100km and emit 220g/km of Co2.
Interior features include a 3.5-inch LCD multi-information screen, air conditioning, electric windows and tilt-adjustable steering wheel.
The two models feature exceptional capacious load areas, with the Wide Body with high roof offering a load volume of 9.2 cubic metres.
Both the NV200 and NV350 come standard with a 3-year/100 000km warranty, as well as a 5-year/90 000km service plan for the NV350, available from Group 1 Nissan.
Article source: https://www.autodealer.co.za/new-cars/Nissan/NV350---Panel-Van
Posted on February 25th, 2019
2019 Nissan Navara with steering, suspension upgrades
Just what are we doing in Australia driving a Navara that seemingly looks the same (sans the accessories) as the one that Nissan has in the Philippine market?
Were we brought here to just enjoy the view? We wouldn't fault them for that; Australia, after all, has some incredibly picturesque scenery. Were we brought here to just enjoy the food? Australia has some great cuisine, all of which are fresh from their farms, ranches, and seas.
Knowing Nissan, a company that knows how to communicate something so very well, all hints point to something more. They wanted to tell us something with the Navara we're behind the wheel of, and Australia, it seems, has the best roads to make that message rise to the surface.To get the technical stuff out of the way, the D23 is the second Nissan model to carry the Navara nameplate from its long history of tough and durable pickups. We found it strange for Nissan to code back from the D40, as it was preceded by the D22. Initially labeled NP300, a common nomenclature found in Nissan LCV and CV models such as the NV350.
But while this looks the same (at least once you remove the accessories), this is actually an updated version. It just so happens that the upgrades weren't made to the body or the interior, but to the mechanical bits and pieces.
Nissan brought us here to try out the new Navara which now has an upgraded steering system and a new, dual-rate progressive rear coil spring set up. And we're going to test the enhancements on some pretty incredible roads... paved, or not at all.
Starting off from Perth, we drove south and played in the sand by the coast of Bouvard in Mandurah and further to explore the many forests, and down to Margaret River. We drove on clay, light mud and gravel roads, all to get to a campsite.
The new steering update does give the Navara a much better response and feedback, even on the loose surfaces. It does give that extra level of confidence in the various terrain we drove on. The steering feel, a normal Nissan LCV trait, might need a bit of tuning, as it still is on the heavy side. That, it seems, was the common experience we all shared by the campfire at the night.
The next day, we took the Navara out by the coastline to the lighthouse of Cape Leeuwin, as we drove along the coastal highway. It is interesting to note that Cape Leeuwin is where two oceans meet (Indian Ocean and Southern Ocean). From the sea, we went up the mountain through a rather rocky and sandy trail better appreciate the toughness of the Navara.
The new rear coil springs have managed to deliver on the promise of better comfort and stability. While I was seated mostly in front, or the driver’s seat, you could still feel the rear was more ‘attached’ and stable. Vehicle control was also much better on and off road. There was a very slight improvement of comfort in terms of the ride at the back, but that’s because it was already good before the change.
However, the biggest improvement on the rear suspension is that it doesn’t dip that much anymore with the bed loaded. And this matters a lot for many pickup truck owners who use their vehicle as workhorses or for work and play.
On the tricky terrain, we also were able to try out the around-view monitor package, something that has been available in the Philippines since March. The around-view monitor proved to be just as helpful a tool for navigating uncertain terrain (i.e. rocks) with precision as it is for maneuvering into tight spaces. It really is an extra set of eyes; something useful for long vehicles. Although, I was honestly looking for the off-road mode of the around view monitor, as experienced on the Terra.
The Navara we drove was also fitted with the 2.3-liter twin-turbo diesel engine, a completely different powertrain from the 2.5-liter Euro-4 turbodiesel that we get. The Euro-6 engine proved to be smooth throughout the rev range, though it did lack a bit of low-end punch off boost; that's something about displacement that you just can’t replace.
On our last day, we set off from serene and scenic Empire Retreat through some hills down to the coast to see the waves of Yallingup beach which attracted a good number of surfers that morning. After about half an hour, we then set off north to the charming port city of Fremantle.
The improvements while seemingly minimal, are quite significant. However, the steering and rear suspension upgrade are currently available only for the Australia and New Zealand markets.
The driving experience truly exemplified the tough and smart character of the Nissan Navara. A workhorse for the working man and a steed for the occasional woodsman who has a good eye for appreciation of life.
Driving pickups across Western Australia imbibed images of sun, surf, and sand. But as it turned out we got a lot more than we bargained for, sans the surfing, on our three-day adventure from Perth all the way down to the southern coastline of this massive continent, all while behind the wheel of the Nissan Navara.
If you would like to experience the Nissan Navara first hand - book a test drive at Group 1 Nissan here!
Article source: https://www.autoindustriya.com/features/first-drive-2019-nissan-navara-with-steering-suspension-upgrades.html
Posted on February 25th, 2019
Nissan NV200 Review
The Nissan NV200 is cheap, quite literally the cheapest thing in segment, besides the Chevrolet City Express which is pretty much the NV200 in drag. It’s really much cheaper than the nearest rival that isn’t itself – but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. What is bad though – or at least what may lose potential buyers – is that this is a panel van and nothing else. That is unless you fancy driving around in yellow livery with a taxi light on the roof – the NV200 is the official taxi-cab of NYC.
Interior
In panel van trim – the one the public is likely to be buying – the NV200 panel van seats 2, though the passenger seat can be folded flat to extend the cargo bay for items like ladders. In its stowed state, the passenger seat also acts as a desk or work top, and the centre console houses a file folder bin for the workman with no time for an office. It’s not a very pleasant place to be sat – the plastics feeling the cheapest of any rivals in the segment – though forward visibility is good.
As for cargo, the 122.7 cubic feet or storage space is ample, though lacking compared to the Ram ProMaster City’s 131.7 cu ft. The vinyl clad cargo bay does however offer 20 cargo mounting points, six D-rings set into the floor for tying down goods, and six mounting points on the roof for a roof rack. Sliding doors make ingress a cinch.
Driving (Ride and Handling)
Built using a unibody construction method, the NV200 feels mostly car-like. But there is severe body lean around corners and the ride itself is fairly appalling. The tilt-only steering wheel offers incredibly vague feedback and there’s just no feel to the thing whatsoever. It feels like a vehicle engineered 3 decades ago – uncommunicative, unresponsive, and without much pliancy to the ride.
However, there is an upside to the unibody construction and relatively small proportions of the NV200. It’s surprisingly nimble around parking complexes and in tight scenarios, where it feels like it can be threaded through just about the smallest of gaps. Reversing is difficult, though an optional rear-view camera helps.
Performance (Engine and Transmission)
There is only one engine option, a 2.0-liter gasoline model with 131 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to a continuously variable transmission and drives the front wheels. The engine allows a 1,480lb payload. The NV200 is slow – but slow and steady wins the race, right?
Equipment and Safety
The base specification NV200 S offers little, but does include air conditioning, power windows, and power door locks, with the option for a Bluetooth hands free phone system. The SV ups the spec a little with cruise control, an optional reverse camera, and an optional touch screen with navigation. The NV200 features ABS brakes – though the rear brakes are drums – with EBD and brake assist. Airbags are standard, as is traction control and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Verdict
There’s a reason the Nissan NV200 is cheap – it offers no real excitement. A dull drivetrain, no towing capacity, and limited configuration are only matched by the lack of features. But, it’s cheap – and many businesses just need a vehicle to get things done. Perhaps it has a purpose after all. View the NV200 combi from Group 1 Nissan to see the NV200 at its best.
Article source: https://carbuzz.com/reviews/2018-nissan-nv200-review
Posted on January 18th, 2019