The Nissan Juke is the SUV that kick-started the trend for jacked-up small cars.

Designed as an alternative to more conservative hatchbacks such as the Ford Fiesta, it has been a huge success thanks, in part, to its distinctive looks.

The Juke combines these looks with tempting prices, strong resale values, lots of on-board technology and reasonable fuel economy – features that have helped it remain a big seller, even though many other car makers have followed in its footsteps.

Today, the Juke faces competition from a varied selection of cars that includes the Renault captur, Vauxhall Mokka and Citroën C4 Cactus.

Cars in this market have a tough brief to fill. They need to be compact, and take up no more space on your driveway than a conventional hatchback, but they also need to be practical enough for families.

This last area is one where the Juke is far less impressive, because it’s really quite cramped in the back.

Would the Nissan Juke or even a Used Nissan Juke make sense as your next car, then? Read on over the following pages for everything you need to know before buying one, including which engine and trim to choose.

Driving

What it’s like to drive, and how quiet it is

Nissan Juke performance

The Nissan Juke comes with a wide variety of petrol engines but only one diesel. The entry-level 1.6-litre petrol is fine around town but has to be worked very hard on the motorway. A more powerful version is offered, but it’s only available with Nissan’s Xtronic CVT gearbox, which doesn’t suit it.

We’d recommend the 1.2-litre turbo petrol, instead. It’s badged DIG-T 115 and its extra power and torque make it easier and more relaxing to drive. More powerful DIG-T 190 and DIG-T 218 versions are available, the latter in the sporty Nismo model, but they’re a bit too punchy for the Juke and can overwhelm the front wheels.

The 1.5-litre diesel has a reasonable amount of mid-range power, but it can be sluggish. Its saving grace is that its low emissions make it the best choice for company car drivers.

Nissan Juke ride comfort

Strangely, the sporty Nismo version actually rides a little better than the standard car. It’s firmer but body roll is reduced as a consequence, so you don’t get thrown about as much.

Nissan Juke handling

The Juke’s steering is quick to respond around town, making the car feel darty and nimble at low speeds. However, it weights up inconsistently as more lock is applied in corners, robbing the driver of confidence. All but entry-level Visia models come with variable steering that has three different settings, but all this really does is add more resistance to the wheel’s movements.

The front tyres also wash wide quite easily through faster bends, while the rear of the car doesn’t feel particularly stable during high-speed direction changes – not a desirable quality in a small family car.

The high-performance Nismo version is, again, a slightly sharper car to drive with less body roll in corners, but it still lacks the grip to compete with conventional hatchbacks such as the Ford Fiesta.

Nissan Juke refinement

There are quite large differences between the various engines. The diesel is grumbly and fairly intrusive at most speeds, while the short gearing in the entry-level 1.6-litre petrol means high revs and lots of noise on the motorway. The 1.2-litre and 1.6-litre turbo petrols are smoother and quieter, although you’ll have to get used to a bit of turbo noise at low speeds.

Road noise is perfectly acceptable as long as you avoid the larger wheels. The manual gearboxes have a tight, narrow gate that can make smooth changes difficult, while the clutch has a fairly heavy action, too.

Unless you really need an automatic, we’d avoid the CVT ‘box on offer. It’s noisy and doesn’t feel particularly positive, flaring and holding the revs high when you accelerate.

Interior layout

The interior layout, fit and finish

Nissan Juke driving position

Getting comfortable in the Nissan Juke won’t be easy for everyone. The front seats are relatively supportive but the backrest adjusts via a plastic handle, with stepped adjustment that means you’ll struggle to find the perfect position.

The steering wheel can be moved up and down, but not in and out, so, if you have short arms, you’ll have to slide the seat forward to reach it. Consequently many drivers will find their seating position is a compromise and not as comfortable as it should be.

All the major controls are clearly labelled, though, but the climate control switches are a little confusing at first.

Nissan Juke visibility

The view of the road ahead is otherwise much better than from a conventional hatchback, with the higher seating position enabling you to see farther.

Nissan Juke infotainment

When it comes to infotainment, there are clear distinctions between trim levels. Entry-level Visia goes without Bluetooth and even a USB connection, while for steering wheel-mounted audio controls, you need to step up to Acenta.

Not surprisingly, top-spec Acenta Premium and Tekna versions are much better equipped. Their features include a 5.8-inch touchscreen media system with sat-nav, a DAB radio, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, and an upgraded stereo system.

The sat-nav is fairly responsive to inputs, while the menus in the media system are simple and easy to navigate. Pairing your phone is a fuss-free process, too.

Nissan Juke build quality

The Juke trades on its striking exterior, so it’s a shame its interior isn’t as smart. A lot of the plastics are hard and scratchy to the touch, particularly lower down in the cabin.

The climate controls are a bit clunky and, curiously, they also double as the driving mode switches – a novel idea but not very intuitive.

The lids of the glovebox and armrest cubby feel flimsy, too. On the cheaper versions these things won’t be so much of a problem, but if you’re paying for a more expensive Tekna or Nismo model, they’ll be disappointing.

Space & practicality

How it copes with people and clutter

Nissan Juke front space

Every model in the Nissan Juke range comes with driver’s seat height adjustment as standard. However, the low roofline and high driving position mean it feels a little more snug inside than, say, a Citroën C4 Cactus or Kia Soul. There is just about enough elbow room to avoiding brushing your passenger by accident – but only just.

The glovebox is a reasonable size, and there are two large cupholders in the centre console. The door pockets are not particularly long, but are shaped to take water bottles. There’s a small shelf with a grippy rubber base in front of the gearstick, which is perfect for your mobile. Taking all these features into account, it’s unlikely you’ll struggle to find space to stow your accessories.

Nissan Juke rear space

On the plus side, there’s a pair of useful, bottle-shaped door bins, and the central tunnel doesn’t obstruct the foot wells too badly, even in four-wheel-drive variants.

Nissan Juke seating flexibility

Some of the Juke’s rivals, including the Fiat Panda Trekking, come without a split folding rear bench, forcing you to choose between carrying passengers or extending the loading bay. Not so, the Nissan. All versions have this feature as standard.

Getting the seats to fold is fairly easy, and best done through the back doors. All you have to do to drop the backrests is push a few plastic buttons. The seats aren’t particularly heavy either, so repositioning them isn’t a struggle. However, unlike the Renault Captur, the rear bench doesn’t slide forwards and backwards to increase storage space or leg room.

The front passenger seat is not height adjustable.

Nissan Juke boot space

One of the biggest improvements made to the Juke during its mid-life refresh was the increase in the size of its luggage area. Barring the four-wheel-drive versions, every Juke now comes with an adjustable boot floor, and in its lowest setting you can just about fit a set of golf clubs or a buggy behind the rear bench.

If you fold the back seats down, the false floor removes the deep lip in the load bay, but the seat backs don’t quite fold flat.

The shape of the opening, the rake of the back seats and the intrusive plastic side panels also limits what you can fit in.

Verdict

The Nissan Juke blends individual looks with plenty of equipment, but it’s let down by its poor practicality and jittery ride.

• Plenty of scope for personalisation options
• Punchy but frugal 1.2-litre petrol turbo engine
• Strong residual values
• Practicality and interior quality are disappointing
• Some rival have better fuel economy and CO2 figures
• It isn’t particularly good to drive

With its reputation for reliability, the Nissan NP300 dominates tough terrain. Renowned for its excellent capabilities, this pick-up is ready for any challenge that comes its way. The NP300 4×4 is a popular workhorse throughout Africa. Whether you need a rugged vehicle for business or pleasure, finding a Nissan NP300 for sale is a great choice. It is also well suited to an agricultural application. You can sell your vehicle or find a Nissan Hardbody for sale at a reputable used car dealership, such as Group 1 Nissan. Visit their website here.

Nissan NP300 Exterior

The muscular exterior of the Nissan NP300 Hardbody is available in Artic White, Bright Silver, Techno Grey and Infinite Black. With its rugged good looks and powerful performance it is easy to see why South Africans pick this model over other bakkies. You can also choose the body style that matches your requirements. Options include a 2WS or 4WD. You can also choose between a double or single cab model. The double cab model has four doors and offers seating for five people. It has a load box of 1425 mm. The single cab has two doors and it can accommodate two passengers. If transporting cargo is your priority then this model is the right choice as it has a 2220mm load box. The NP300 boasts a tough tailgate which has extra-strength chains as well as a double skinned load box. Another highlight is its strong cargo hooks. The load box was designed to transport heavy loads conveniently and efficiently.

You can customise your vehicle by adding additional practical features. This ensures that your pick-up is ready to face the tasks that you set in front of it. The roof carrier and side step bar enhance the athletic appearance of your vehicle while serving a practical function. The optional roll bar adds to the safety features of this model. Halogen Headlamps serve a practical function while contributing to the distinctive appearance of the NP300. Overfenders and 16-inch alloy wheels are other options for this model.

Convenience, Comfort and Safety

Not only is the Nissan NP300 an exceptionally capable workhorse, it is also a comfortable and convenient vehicle to drive. The cabin has plenty of storage options which include door pockets as well as a glove box. Optional extras include air-conditioning and remoteless key entry. You can also add power windows and door locks to your vehicle. Accessories include agricultural and business packages.

When it comes to safety the Nissan NP300 has a range of protective features. True to the Nissan Safety Shield Philosophy, this vehicle is designed with the safety of its occupants in mind. The features are designed to monitor your vehicle’s systems, offer the driver support during emergencies and offer protection if a collision occurs. Safety features include an Anti-Lock Braking System as well as an Engine Immobiliser. Dual front airbags are another safety feature of this model.

Specifications and Performance

The NP300’s outstanding performance makes it a great business tool. It offers superior capabilities as well as cost effective running costs. This model comes with a choice between two petrol engines. The 2.0 litre engine produces a maximum power of 84kW with a peak torque of 169 Nm. The 2.4 litre engine delivers an impressive 105 kW of power with a maximum torque of 205 Nm. The common rail turbo diesel engine outputs 98 kW of power with a peak torque of 304Nm. A 5-speed manual transmission, 4WD as well as a limited-slip differential increase the capabilities of this model.

Here is a comparison chart to help you find the right pre-owned NP300 for sale for you:

The current Nissan Navara has been around for seven years now, which means it's getting old. Its life span is being extended through various editions until the all-new NP300 Navara officially arrived.

If you're in the market for a pickup truck, the new Navara is worth checking out. Let us share with you 10 essential things you should know about this pickup:

1. Design. Gone are the plain surfaces, which were considered modern at the time of the current model's launch. Keno Kato, head of product planning at Nissan Motor Company, said the design team went "back to basics" to deliver agility and bring out masculinity with the new Nissan truck. The grille's V-motion pattern continues to the hood, and Kato-san compared these sections to the arms of a man. The side surfaces likewise have a flexed appearance, resulting in a complex character line. The NP300 Navara sports LED daytime running lights and LED headlamps, a first in the segment.

2. Aerodynamics. The new look has more aero efficiency. The roofline flows better and is actually lower, yet the pickup has a higher ground clearance. The NP300 Navara has a neat rear spoiler, which highlights a sporty character.

3. Interior. Just like the old exterior, the current interior has plain surfaces and is more truck-like. That's no longer the case with the NP300 Navara--the dashboard is swept and more functional. Comfort is key with the new pickup, with the Teana and the Altima as the design team's basis. Like these midsize sedans, the NP300 Navara has "zero-gravity" seats, offering softer support. We drove 200km with the 4x2 and 4x4 variants in Chiang Mai, and our backs and bums didn't feel any strain.

4. Suspension. The leaf-spring rear suspension and differential are improved for better ride and handling. A pickup's ride can't be too soft yet can't be too hard. "A trucky ride is a problem," shared Kato. The road absorption was very noticeable during our ride and drive activity.

5. Chassis. The boxed ladder frame is more rigid. The side section is a carryover from the current Navara. Now, it's the biggest one in the segment. The NP300 Navara may be bigger, but the combined weight of components such as the body, the chassis, the rear suspension and the rear brakes is reduced by 70kg through the use of high-strength materials.

6. Engine. The YD25 2.5-liter diesel is an evolution of the current Navara powerplant. It's equipped with a new variable-geometry turbocharger, making it more efficient and more powerful. Low boost is rated at 161hp and 403Nm, while high boost produces 187hp and 450Nm.

7. Transmission. The engines (2.3-liter diesel and 2.5-liter gasoline units will be offered in other markets) are mated to a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic with manual override.

8. Technology. A start/stop button, a seven-inch screen, an audio and navigation system with USB, Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity, dual-zone climate control, shift-on-the-fly 4WD system, and a rear-view camera make the NP300 Navara a smart pickup.

9. Safety. Hill-start assist prevents you from rolling back (with an approach angle as steep as 31 degrees) with the system, keeping the car stationary for two seconds. Hill-descent control, meanwhile, assists off-road driving on steep departures (as much as 26 degrees) by limiting speed without applying the brakes.

10. Possibility of a pickup-based SUV. Fukui confirmed this and mentioned that development has begun with a test mule. If plans push through, it will compete against the Mitsubishi Montero Sport, the Toyota Fortuner, the Chevrolet Trailblazer, and the upcoming Isuzu MU-X and Ford Everest. The engineer, however, was tight-lipped about the time period. He said it's two to three years away, maybe even four.

It is worthwhile to take the time to test drive a Nissan Navara. Arrange this via a reputable Nissan dealership in your area. In South Africa, click here to find a Group 1 Nissan dealership.

By Wayne Gorrett

The arrival of the new Nissan NP300 Navara is long overdue and by all accounts, local introduction is expected early in 2017. Will the locally-built new Navara be worth the wait? Our UK correspondent drove Nissan's latest double-cab offering to find out...

During the Nineties, almost every middle manager with a family wanted a double-cab as their company car; they sold like hot vetkoek and, as a result, South Africa remains enthralled by the "family bakkie". The first-generation Navara made its UK debut in 2001, but it was merely a tinselled-up version of the Hardbody, a stalwart (replete with sliding heating controls) that still soldiers on in South Africa as the NP300. Mzansi had to wait until late 2005, when the second generation (D40) Navara arrived as a full import, and it has undergone a host of updates throughout the years.

But, after almost 11 years, it's high time for an all-new Navara. Codenamed the D23, this Navara started life as a blank-canvas project – even the name hasn’t escaped a makeover. The "NP300 Navara" designation follows the new global house style for Nissan's commercial vehicles, denoting the type of vehicle (Nissan pick-up) and gross vehicle mass (3 tonnes).

As you can see from these images, Nissan hasn’t tinkered too much with the outer appearance of the new Navara, which features a revised front grille, restyled bumper and sleeker bonnet. It certainly looks handsome in the metal, but that's not to suggest it's a show pony: the newcomer can still haul a 1-tonne load and pull 3.5 tonnes on the rear hook – just but not both at the same time. To do that you’ll need to reduce the tray load by half a tonne.

Handsome new NP300 Navara proves its mettle on a rutted off-road course.

Much improved interior

The Navara is again offered in king cab (KC) or double cab (DC) form and both versions offer rear seats, but while the DC has a traditional bench in the back and four conventional doors, the KC has two (cinema style) flip-down rear seats and small back doors hinged on the rearmost edges of the cab.

The interior represents a significant improvement for the Navara. On the high-spec derivatives there’s piano black trim, metal-effect accents, a touchscreen infotainment system with satnav and surround view monitor, the latter of which is a very handy feature on a vehicle of such enlarged dimensions.

The infotainment system will be familiar to anyone who's driven a top-end Nissan SUV or crossover recently. The system is intuitive to use by virtue of simple, easily-navigitable menus and slick Bluetooth pairing, although the image quality relayed by the surround-view cameras could be better.

... but no soft-touch dashboard

Although its cabin looks SUV-like in quality, the Navara's still based on a commercial vehicle underneath – the leather steering wheel and gear lever feel upmarket, but those expecting soft-touch plastics on the dashboard will be disappointed. Yes, the Nissan cabin's overall build quality is solid and will probably be as tough as old boots, but the plastics are all hard to the touch, unfortunately.

Piano-black finish and touchscreen infotainment lends a luxurious, SUV-like feel to the Navara's dashboard.

Nissan SA has not confirmed engine/transmission line-up for the local-spec Navara, but expect it to be offered with the choice of 2- or 4-wheel drive and the option of a standard 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic gearbox.

The South African range could receive the new 2.3-litre Renault-Nissan alliance turbodiesel motor, which is claimed to be up to 24% more efficient than the ageing 2.5-litre unit it replaces, and is said to be the "cleanest and most economical in its sector". Available with two power output options, 120 kW (409 Nm) and 140 kW (450Nm), the range-topping version introduces twin turbocharging technology – a first for Nissan in this segment.

The current 3.0-litre V6 dCi, which produces 170 kW and 550 Nm of torque, is expected to remain.

Multi-link rear suspension configuration lends the Nissan improved handling stability and a forgiving ride quality.

New independent suspension

In this regard, Nissan has set a precedent with the latest Navara. Gone is the bone-shaking leaf-sprung suspension on DC models which, mercifully, has been replaced by a new independent five-link coil system which provides a much more refined and well-behaved ride.

However, all KC models retain the rear leaf spring arrangement.

The decision to switch to a multi-link rear suspension is entirely justified as the results are instantly evident. The outgoing Navara bounced and shimmied its way along the road, leaving the driver constantly aware of the rear of the vehicle whilst giving the feeling that the load bed is entirely separate from the cab.

The new NP300 Navara does away with that feeling thanks to its new suspension as the multi-link setup removes the wobble and crash of the rear, while a new rubber seal between the load bed and the cab provides cushioning and reduces shaking.

The ride is undoubtedly smoother, but it’s as a rear passenger where you’ll notice it most. Previously the Navara (like most pickups with leaf springs), would gently jiggle you into submission over a long journey. Now, the ride is fairly static and bobble-free.

Rear passengers (in particular) will benefit from the pliant ride quality, especially on long-haul journeys.

What's more, the rear-seat comfort has also been improved by increasing the angle of the seatback and the length of the cushion squab. While rear legroom is still not overly generous, it must be said, the changes have made the new Navara a much more practical vehicle for four occupants.

More composed, both on- and off-road

From the driver’s seat, the Navara now feels more composed both on- and off-road. The improved ride quality and quicker steering rack make the driving experience more enjoyable and less of a challenge. If you entered a quick, sweeping corner in the outgoing model, the nose tended to push outwards, but the new model tracks much better in the bends and the steering wheel conveys the front wheels' contact with the road with greater accuracy.

Despite the improved on-road characteristics, the 2017 Nissan Navara is still more than capable off road. A 4WD derivative comes complete with a low range ’box, hill descent control and excellent axle articulation. If you want to get really serious, a rear diff-lock is optional. Fortunately, it was fitted to all the test vehicles.

Nissan’s proven electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system has three settings: 2H, 4H, 4L and a more lightweight construction helps the NP300 Navara feel more nimble and agile than its predecessor, while the 450 Nm of torque means there’s plenty of push when needed. Up steep and rocky trails and down deep, rain-carved gullies, the Navara didn’t break into a sweat… but I did!

Navara features electronically-controlled 4WD and a differential lock; its axle articulation is excellent.

... considerably better road manners

The NP300 Navara offers the best ride comfort of any unladen bakkie I’ve driven to date. The previous-generation Navara (and other leaf-sprung competitors) tended to be bouncy and rather unsettled, but the new Navara DC feels much more stable and displays considerably better road manners.

However, there are still reminders that the Navara is, in essence, a working vehicle. There’s no getting away from the fact that below the sheet metal there’s a heavy-duty live axle attached to a ladder-frame chassis.

Nonetheless, the NP300 Navara will be one of the best pick-ups to have ever reached South African shores when it arrives. While not quite blurring category lines, it certainly narrows the gap between rough, tough, work-a-day bakkies and road-biased SUVs.

To pre-order your 2017 Nissan Navara, arrival date, estimated for March 2017, visit a reputable Nissan dealership near you.

Nissan's original Qashqai was one of the first cars to combine 4x4 styling with hatchback running costs, and this formula quickly turned it into a best-seller.

The latest Nissan Qashqai builds on the strengths of that original model, offering more style, space and equipment, along with better fuel economy and sharper handling. It's so good that it won the Best Mainstream SUV title in the 2016 Telegraph Cars Awards, and among its best rivals are the Seat Ateca and Renault Kadjar.

Space 8/10

Roomy for four adults, and the boot is versatile

There’s enough space to keep four six-footers comfortable for hours, and a fifth person can squeeze in for shorter journeys. Meanwhile, Isofix mountings on the outer rear seats make it a doddle to fit child seats.

The boot is square and can easily swallow a couple of large suitcases, although others in the class have even more space back there. When the rear seats are folded flat, there is a step up to them on the cheapest version of the car, the Visia, but other Qashqais have adjustable floor panels that level things out.

As a bonus, these panels can be used to divide up the boot space so smaller items don’t slide around. Alternatively, if you put the panels in their highest setting there’s room to stow the parcel shelf underneath.

You’ll find a couple of cupholders between the front seats, along with a large storage bin to keep your valuables out of sight.

Shorter people may find the tailgate a bit of a stretch to reach when they want to close it.

Comfort 9/10

Most versions are quiet and comfortable

The Qashqai is great at soaking up bumps and potholes, as long as it’s not fitted with 19-inch wheels (the biggest available).

In addition, there are few cars available for this sort of money that are as quiet as the Qashqai. Not only is it brilliant at shutting out wind and road noise, but the 1.5-litre diesel engine stays smooth at all times.

The 1.2-litre petrol engine is also quiet, but the 1.6-litre diesel sounds a little gruff when you accelerate and it transmits some vibrations into the car.

People of all sizes should be able to find a comfortable driving position in the Qashqai because there’s a wide range of adjustment and the seat controls are precise in operation.

Dashboard layout 10/10

Well-ordered dash looks and feels classy

The dashboard is simple to use, whether you have the standard layout or the touchscreen system that’s reserved for more expensive Qashqais.

It has a premium feel, too, because the plastics look smart and are pleasant to touch, and all of the controls feel slick.

Easy to drive 6/10

Diesels make life easy. Sizeable blind spots don’t

Visibility is quite restricted; you sometimes have to crane your neck at junctions to look for approaching traffic, and it can be difficult to judge where the back of the car ends when reversing if you don’t have parking sensors.

More positively, both diesel engines make it easy to keep up with the flow of traffic on all types of road. The petrol engine is weaker, so it’s best avoided if you do a lot of motorway miles.

Surprisingly good given its tall body

The Qashqai is enjoyable and reassuring to drive because the steering is precise and there’s plenty of grip.

Unlike the previous Qashqai, it doesn’t lean over dramatically when you turn into a bend at speed.

The only thing that lets it down a bit is the manual gearbox; it has a long shift action that makes it feel like you’re reaching into the back of the car when you select one of the even-numbered gears.

Reliability 7/10

Nissan has a good record, but warranty could be better

Nissan Qashqai reliability record is fair to middling, with an above-average, if not exactly outstanding, showing in the 2016 JD Power Vehicle Dependability Study. That put it above Mazda and Renault, but below Ford, Peugeot and Suzuki in the survey.

The Qashqai comes with a three-year, 60,000-mile warranty as standard, which is about the minimum you could expect these days. Renault offers a longer warranty on its Kadjar.

Fuel economy 9/10

Particularly good if you choose the 1.5-litre diesel

The 1.5-litre diesel Qashqai returns an official average of 74.3mpg, which in the real world translates to between 50-55mpg. That’s comparable with some of the best family hatchbacks and better than rivals such as the Skoda Yeti.

The 1.6 diesel and 1.2 petrol aren’t quite so efficient, and you’ll find it harder to get near the official figure in the petrol than you do in the diesels, simply because of the way you have to work it harder in everyday driving. Typically, you can expect between 35-40mpg from petrol Qashqais.

Affordability 8/10

Most costs are reasonable and it holds its value very well

The Qashqai is priced a little higher than conventional family hatchbacks, such as the Ford Focus and Vauxhall Astra. But it shouldn’t cost you any more in the long run because it will be worth far more when you come to sell it.

These strong resale values also make it reasonably cheap to lease or buy on finance, and insurance and road tax costs are competitive. It won’t be cheap to service, though.

Safety 8/10

Even the cheapest version should keep you and your loved ones safe

The Qashqai scored a maximum five stats in crash tests carried out by Euro NCAP.

As in most modern cars, there’s a stability control system that can reign in the engine’s power and brake individual wheels to help you stay in control in poor conditions. What’s more, the Qashqai gets the usual six airbags: four that protect those in the front, plus two that run the length of the car at window level.

Acenta Premium and Tekna models also come with a Smart Vision pack, which includes systems that warn if you’re straying out of your lane or in danger of having a collision, as well as front and rear parking sensors. This pack is a relatively affordable option on lesser models.

Standard spec 8/10

Most Qashqais come with lots of luxuries

The cheapest version of the Qashqai, the Visia, lets you make phone calls and play your iPod music through a Bluetooth connection, plus it comes with air-conditioning and cruise control.

Even so, it’s worth upgrading to the next version, the Acenta; this adds lots of desirable features, including alloy wheels, automatic lights and wipers and a dual-zone climate control system that lets the driver and front passenger set different temperatures.

The N-Connecta model is also worth considering because it brings front and rear parking sensors, a 7-inch touchscreen with satnav and some additional safety kit, but range-topping N-Vision and Tekna Qashqais cost silly money.

The verdict 8/10

The Nissan Qashqai is a good family car. It’s as relaxing to drive as a VW Golf, and more practical. It also makes financial sense because it holds its value well and is available with more efficient diesel engines than a Skoda Yeti. However, the recently launched Seat Ateca and Renault Kadjar are also worth serious consideration.

Is the NP200 a good bakkie? Yes!

Small bakkies are becoming mightily impressive - and not just in terms of what they can carry. However at 800kg, which is the largest payload capacity in the segment, the Nissan NP200 is not exactly found wanting.

Where South Africa’s most popular sub-tonne bakkie could improve is the looks. In plain, workhorse white, the vehicle has a distinct commercial look about it and it comes as no surprise that many small business owners have chosen the NP200 as their vehicle of choice.

The thing is, we spend most of our time sitting inside the bakkie, so that’s where we really need the car to shine. And in an age of constant connectivity, what we really care about is safely making a handsfree call over Bluetooth. And a USB port would be nice.

Thankfully all these concerns have been addressed with the Limited Edition Nissan NP200 Stealth. Based on the NP200 which sells incredibly well in South Africa, the Stealth has the same 1.6 engine, the same impressive load capacity and the same 6 year/150 000km warranty of any other NP200 warranty, but it looks really, really cool.

Customised body paint, wheels and decals separate it from any other NP200 on the road, and for the same price as the normal NP200 1.6 S, Nissan will throw in a huge list of extras, all of which are featured in our video.

But we thought at that price, perhaps owning this little bakkie is in some ways better than owning a small car. Which we’ve tried our best to demonstrate…

Nissan NP200 Stealth Quick Specs

Engine: 1.6-Litre petrol 8v Power: 64 kW Torque: 128 Nm Fuel economy: 8.1L/100km Payload capacity: 800kg Warranty: 6 year/150 000km Service plan: Optional

Nissan NP200 Stealth Video Review

https://youtu.be/GFdWHARNHVI

By Steve Huntingford, editor, telegraph cars

Nissan's original Qashqai was one of the first cars to combine 4x4 styling with hatchback running costs, and this formula quickly turned it into a best-seller.

The latest Nissan Qashqai builds on the strengths of that original model, offering more style, space and equipment, along with better fuel economy and sharper handling. It's so good that it won the Best Mainstream SUV title in the 2016 Telegraph Cars Awards.

There’s enough space to keep four six-footers comfortable for hours, and a fifth person can squeeze in for shorter journeys. Meanwhile, Isofix mountings on the outer rear seats make it a doddle to fit child seats.

The boot is big and square – it can easily swallow a couple of large suitcases – and the rear seats fold flat when you need extra space. There is a step up to them on the cheapest version of the car, the Visia, but other Qashqais have adjustable floor panels that level things out.

As a bonus, these panels can be used to divide up the boot space so smaller items don’t slide around. Alternatively, if you put the panels in their highest setting there’s room to stow the parcel shelf underneath.

You’ll find a couple of cupholders between the front seats, along with a large storage bin to keep your valuables out of sight.

Shorter people may find the tailgate a bit of a stretch to reach when they want to close it.

Comfort 10/10

Most versions are quiet and comfortable

The Qashqai is great at soaking up bumps and potholes, as long as it’s not fitted with 19-inch wheels (the biggest available).

In addition, there are few cars available for this sort of money that are as quiet as the Qashqai. Not only is it brilliant at shutting out wind and road noise, but the 1.5-litre diesel engine stays smooth at all times.

The 1.2-litre petrol engine is also quiet, but the 1.6-litre diesel sounds a little gruff when you accelerate and it transmits some vibrations into the car.

People of all sizes should be able to find a comfortable driving position in the Qashqai because there’s a wide range of adjustment and the seat controls are precise in operation.

Dashboard layout 10/10

Well-ordered dash looks and feels classy

The dashboard is simple to use, whether you have the standard layout or the touchscreen system that’s reserved for more expensive Qashqais.

It has a premium feel, too, because the plastics look smart and are pleasant to touch, and all of the controls feel slick.

Easy to drive 6/10

Diesels make life easy. Sizeable blind spots don’t

Visibility is quite restricted; you sometimes have to crane your neck at junctions to look for approaching traffic, and it can be difficult to judge where the back of the car ends when reversing if you don’t have parking sensors.

More positively, both diesel engines make it easy to keep up with the flow of traffic on all types of road. The petrol engine is weaker, so it’s best avoided if you do a lot of motorway miles.

Four-wheel drive is an option with the 1.6-litre diesel. This is also the only engine that’s available with an automatic gearbox.

Fun to drive 9/10

Surprisingly good given its tall body

The Qashqai is enjoyable and reassuring to drive because the steering is precise and there’s plenty of grip.

Unlike the previous Qashqai, it doesn’t lean over dramatically when you turn into a bend at speed.

The only thing that lets it down a bit is the manual gearbox; it has a long shift action that makes it feel like you’re reaching into the back of the car when you select one of the even-numbered gears.

Reliability 8/10

Nissan has an excellent record, but warranty could be better

The latest Qashqai is too new to have been included in the JD Power customer satisfaction survey. However, we’d expect it to be reliable because the previous version finished 19th out of 116 cars in 2013, while Nissan was rated ninth out of 27 manufacturers.

A three-year, 60,000-mile warranty is standard, although this is average rather than exceptional; Toyota and Hyundai both offer five years of cover, and Kia seven years. Nissan does give you three years of roadside assistance.

Fuel economy 9/10

Particularly good if you choose the 1.5-litre diesel

The 1.5-litre diesel Qashqai returns an official average of 74.3mpg. That’s comparable with some of the best family hatchbacks and better than rivals such as the Skoda Yeti.

The 1.6 diesel and 1.2 petrol aren’t quite so efficient, and you’ll find it harder to get near the official figure in the petrol than you do in the diesels, simply because of the way you have to work it harder in everyday driving.

Affordability 8/10

Most costs are reasonable and it holds its value very well

The Qashqai is priced a little higher than conventional family hatchbacks, such as the FordFocus and Vauxhall Astra. But it shouldn’t cost you any more in the long run because it will be worth far more when you come to sell it.

These strong resale values also make it reasonably cheap to lease or buy on finance, and insurance and road tax costs are competitive. It won’t be cheap to service, though.

Safety 8/10

Even the cheapest version should keep you and your loved ones safe

We’re still waiting to see how the latest Qashqai performs in crash tests, but the signs are promising because its predecessor was awarded the maximum five stars by test body Euro NCAP.

As in most modern cars, there’s a stability control system that can reign in the engine’s power and brake individual wheels to help you stay in control in poor conditions. What’s more, the Qashqai gets the usual six airbags: four that protect those in the front, plus two that run the length of the car at window level.

Acenta Premium and Tekna models also come with a Smart Vision pack, which includes systems that warn if you’re straying out of your lane or in danger of having a collision, as well as front and rear parking sensors. This pack is a relatively affordable option on lesser models.

Standard spec 8/10

Most Qashqais come with lots of luxuries

The cheapest version of the Qashqai, the Visia, lets you make phone calls and play your iPod music through a Bluetooth connection, plus it comes with air-conditioning and cruise control.

Even so, it’s worth upgrading to the next version, the Acenta; this adds lots of desirable features, including alloy wheels, automatic lights and wipers and a dual-zone climate control system that lets the driver and front passenger set different temperatures.

The Acenta Premium model is also worth considering because it brings a reversing camera, a panoramic glass roof and some additional safety kit, but range-topping Tekna Qashqais cost silly money.

Nissan offers numerous wheel designs that help you personalise your car, along with exterior styling treatments that make it look more like a serious off-roader.

Original Source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/cars/nissan/nissan-qashqai-review/

Note from us: In South Africa the Nissan Qashqai comes with a standard 6 years/150,000km warranty including a Nissan Service Plan of 3 years/90,000km. From more information on the Nissan Qashqai price in South Africa, contact a reputable dealer, such as Group 1 Nissan for advice.

The Datsun Go marks the return of the Datsun marque after a 30-year absence. Like Dacia, Datsun is conceived to be the budget alternative to its established parent brand.

But unlike Dacia, Datsun is targeted at emerging markets such as India, where it is just about to go on sale.

The Go’s styling is inoffensive, and the diamond-shaped grille, the angular, peeled-back headlamps and its attractive lines have a certain appeal. It's clear that the designers have tried hard to keep it from looking too basic, even if the skinny 13in wheels look woefully small in those big arches.

Under the bonnet is a 67bhp 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol motor that's similar to that found in the Nissan Micra. It makes slightly less power than in the Nissan, but then again, the Datsun Go isn't that heavy.

The Go measures 3785mm long and 1635mm wide and has a wheelbase of 2450mm. Compare that to the Suzuki Alto which is 3580mm long, 1680mm wide and has a 2,360mm wheelbase and you can see how much more car is offered for the money.

The Datsun Go won't come with ABS and there aren't any airbags either. In fact, even basic safety equipment is missing – the rear windshield doesn't get a demister and there's no wiper, either.

It's the car's light kerb weight that makes it such a peppy performer.

It responds to light taps on the throttle eagerly and is happy pulling away from low engine speeds in high gear. The mid-range is strong and it's only when you get to around 4000rpm that it gets thrummy. The responsive nature of the engine makes it really easy to drive around the city – you can stick it in third gear and potter around town all day. The five-speed manual is also light and the clutch is progressive enough.

Push the engine hard and it will easily propel the Datsun Go to triple-digit speeds. Our testing equipment shows that it will get from rest to 62mph in 15sec and you can easily cruise at those speeds with minimum fuss.

The downsides? Well, there’s a bit of vibration from the three-cylinder engine at idle, but that's it. It smoothens out when you rev it, and also quiets down when you are cruising.

Around town, the ride is quite supple but there is an underlying firmness. Bigger bumps thump through but it has a big-car feel in the way it tackles bad roads. Less impressive is the way the suspension and road noise filters into the cabin, especially on coarse surfaces. Evidence of being built to a price is apparent by the lack of soundproofing in the wheel wells.

The Go is an easy car to drive though – the power steering is light, and it feels very manageable with great visibility. It doesn't like to be pushed hard – around corners, the suspension's generous travel allows for plenty of body roll and even though grip is adequate, the car moves about on its tall tyres. But there's decent stability at speed and the steering weights up enough to give a precise feel.

Inside, the driver is presented with a simple, three-spoke steering wheel and even simpler dials – there's a speedometer and a digital display that includes a rev counter, trip computer (that's small and hard to read on the move) and a fuel gauge.

The centre console is similarly spartan and does without radio or CD player. Even though the Go gets front power windows, the driver has a switch only on their side. And the rear windows are manual. Then there's the bare metal adjuster for the seat's fore and aft movement and rear seatbelts that don't automatically retract.

The driving position is comfortable, with good visibility, though some might find the dash-mounted gear lever set quite high and even a bit too far back, especially for those with long arms.

There is, however, plenty of space. Clever management of space – the dash-mounted gear lever and the slim seats – makes it quite an airy cabin. There’s a decent amount of rear legroom, but the rear seats are unsupportive.

The Datsun Go proves to be quite a cheap, easy-to-own car. Datsun will also offer a two-year/unlimited mileage comprehensive warranty when the Go goes on sale later this month.

The manufacturer claims a fuel efficiency figure of 58.2mpg. The Go will be sold through reputable Nissan dealerships such as Group 1 Nissan and in markets where it'll be sold where there are no Nissan dealerships, Datsun plans to set up its own.

For now though, the Go has a peppy engine, spacious interior and is easy to drive. And when you think about how much money it costs, it seems like a lot of car for the money.

Datsun Go

0-62mph 15sec; Top speed na; Economy 58.2mpg; CO2 na; Kerb weight na; Engine 3 cyls, 1198cc; Power 67bhp at 5000rpm; Torque 77lb ft at 4000rpm; Gearbox 5-spd manual. Price: Speak to a local dealer such as Group 1 Nissan for the Datsun GO price in South Africa.

Article source: http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/nissan/datsun-go

As you probably know by now - we are total Nissan fanatics. So when we saw this video about the Nissan Rogue, also called the X-trail in countries like South Africa, we thought “What an spectacular vehicle."

If you would like to find out more about this vehicle in South Africa why not visit Group 1 Nissan, THE Nissan Cape Town dealership?

They will also be able to assist you with choosing the best vehicle for your needs if you would like any other Nissan model. Go ahead and watch this video about the 2016 Rogue - we hope you find it equally blissful.

Video source - Kelley Blue Book on Youtube

Image source - Nissan USA