Test drive Nissan Qashqai 1.6 dCi 4WD: the theory of evolution
Test Drive

Test drive Nissan Qashqai 1.6 dCi 4WD: the theory of evolution

Test drive Nissan Qashqai 1.6 dCi 4WD: the theory of evolution

Will Gen 2.0 continue on the road to success? And what does NASA have to do with it?

In fact, courage is nothing more than not giving in to the fear of risk. Trying to Remember Nissan Almera soon discovers that we have to work hard to come up with something for this model. However, in 2007, a really bold decision was made - to end the 1966 Sunny B10 tradition of traditional compact models and bring to the market something completely new in the form of Qashqai. Seven years later, after more than two million Qashqais have been sold, it is now more than clear to everyone that the Japanese company could hardly have made a better decision. Due to high demand, production at the company's Sunderland plant is in full swing - one Qashqai rolls off the assembly line every 61 seconds, and assembly of the second generation of the model began on January 22.

The designers have been very meticulous about the styling philosophy of the first generation, while the engineers have made sure that the car has all the technology that the Nissan-Renault alliance can currently offer in a compact class model and even developed some new key features. Qashqai is the first representative of the concern, which is based on a new modular platform for models with a transverse engine, which has the designation CMF. For front-wheel drive models, such as the test model, a torsion bar rear axle is provided. The only dual transmission version so far (1.6 dCi All-Mode 4x4i) is equipped with a multi-link rear suspension. Common to all variants is an increase in body length by 4,7 centimeters. Since the wheelbase has been increased by only 1,6 centimeters, the interior dimensions have remained virtually unchanged. However, it is worth noting that the height in the cabin has increased significantly - by six centimeters in front and one centimeter in the back, which has a beneficial effect on tall people. The volume of the luggage compartment, which has a practical intermediate bottom, has been increased by 20 liters. Thus, Qashqai can be considered one of the spacious representatives of the compact SUV segment and should even be defined as one of the most functional among them. The latter is manifested both in such details as convenient Isofix hooks for attaching a child seat and easy access for passengers to the passenger compartment, as well as in an unusually rich assortment of auxiliary systems. These include a surround sound camera that shows a bird's-eye view of the car and helps the Qashqai maneuver to the centimeter despite not having a very good view from the driver's seat. The camera in question is part of a comprehensive safety measure that includes a driver fatigue assistant, a blind spot assistant, and a motion detection assistant that alerts you to objects when reversing. around the car. Added to these technologies is Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning. The even better news is that each of the systems actually works reliably and helps the driver. The only thing that is a little inconvenient is their activation, which is carried out with the buttons on the steering wheel and digging into the on-board computer menu. However, this remains the only weak point in terms of ergonomics - all other functions are controlled as intuitively as possible.

Technology from a new dimension

One of the very interesting things about this car is the seats. To develop them, Nissan asked for help not from anyone, but from NASA. American experts in the field of space technology have given valuable advice on the optimal position of the back in all areas. Thanks to the joint efforts of Nissan and NASA, the driver and his companion are able to cover long distances without fatigue and stress.

1,6-liter diesel engine with 130 hp is already well known to Renault-Nissan Alliance customers and performs perfectly as expected - with a smooth ride, solid grip and moderate fuel consumption, but also with some lack of power before the tach needle passes the 2000 section. Combined with dual drive, the unit is an extremely reasonable alternative to model driving. Synchronization with a precisely shifting and optimally tuned six-speed manual transmission is to be commended.

Confident drive, dynamically tuned chassis

Overall, the Qashqai provides a satisfactory driving experience, which, however, is partially hampered by 19-inch wheels. Dual chamber dampers have separate channels for short and long bumps and absorb road bumps relatively well. Another interesting technology is the automatic supply of small impulses of braking or acceleration, which are aimed at balancing the load between the two axles.

Sounds pretty impressive, but in practice, Qashqai demonstrates approximately the same weak body vibrations, regardless of whether the system is active or not. The electromechanical power steering system could be much more precise - in both Comfort and Sport modes, it gives too little feedback when the front wheels make contact with the road. Significantly more impressive are the characteristics of the front differential modeled by interfering with the braking system. Thanks to this electronic trick, the Qashqai maintains excellent traction under hard acceleration. The tendency to understeer, as well as all other potentially dangerous tendencies, is ruthlessly countered by the ESP system. Powerful and reliable brakes as well as LED lights also contribute to a high level of safety. The latter literally turn night into day, confirming the brilliant characteristics of the Qashqai. Well done for your courage, Nissan!

EVALUATION

After the revolution, the time for evolution came. The new version of the Qashqai is slightly roomier, safer and just as profitable as its successful predecessor. The 1,6-liter diesel provides a reasonably good temperament while being humble in its thirst for fuel.

Body+ Ample space in both rows of seats

Roomy and practical trunk

Enduring craftsmanship

Simplified ergonomics

Comfortable embarkation and disembarkation

– Limited rear view when parking

Inconvenient control of auxiliary systems through the on-board computer

Comfort

+ Comfortable front seats

Low noise level in the cabin

Overall good ride comfort

– 19-inch wheels significantly impair ride comfort

Engine / transmission

+ Smooth engine operation

Well tuned transmission

Confident craving

Travel behavior+ Safe driving

Good grip

– Not very precise steering system with poor feedback

safety+ Several assistance systems are available as standard or as an option

Standard LED lights in Premium version

Reliable brakes

Surround camera

ecology+ Low cost

Costs

+ Discount price

Five year warranty

Richly equipped

Text: Boyan Boshnakov, Sebastian Renz

Photo: Hans-Dieter Zeifert

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