Review: 2024 Nissan QASHQAI

Published: Jun 19, 2024 2:00 PM

The 2024 Nissan Qashqai, a compact SUV, has rolled onto the Australian market with a fresh face and a few tricks up its sleeve. It’s like that unassuming colleague who surprises you with hidden talents at the office party. Let’s dive into what makes this Qashqai tick.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Punchy Turbo Engine: Under the hood, the Qashqai boasts a turbocharged engine that delivers a satisfying kick. It’s the espresso shot your morning commute needs.
  • Spacious Back Seat and Boot: Despite its city-friendly dimensions, the Qashqai manages to fit in more legroom than you’d expect. Plus, the boot can handle your weekend getaway luggage without breaking a sweat.
  • Tasteful Interior: The blue-and-black interior trim feels cool and contemporary. Leather-trimmed steering wheel? Check. Supportive suede seats? Double check.

 

Cons

  • Not as High-Tech as Flashy Rivals: While the Qashqai’s infotainment system has improved, it’s not quite as futuristic as some of its show-off competitors.
  • Price Premium: The Qashqai asks for an extra $4,000 over the base ST+ model. Is it worth it? Let’s find out.

 

How Much Does it Cost?

The Qashqai lands in four trim levels: ST, ST+, ST-L, and the top-of-the-line Ti. Prices start at a competitive $33,890 for the base ST FWD model, making it a tempting option for budget-conscious buyers. Prices climb steadily as you move up the trim ladder, reaching $51,590 for the feature-rich Ti e-POWER, the hybrid variant.

Features and Benefits: More Than Meets the Eye

Let’s face it, Aussies love a car with personality, and the Qashqai delivers. Its sleek exterior boasts sharp lines and a bold front grille, turning heads wherever you go. But the good stuff doesn’t stop there. Inside, the cabin is a haven of comfort and technology. Think plush seats, a user-friendly infotainment system, and ample legroom for both rows. Plus, with clever storage solutions like the Divide-N-Hide system in the Ti, keeping your gear organized is a breeze.

Tech lovers will rejoice with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a panoramic sunroof (on higher trims), and a heads-up display that keeps your eyes on the road. Safety is paramount, and the Qashqai comes loaded with Nissan’s ProPILOT suite, including autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

First Impressions

Power, Performance, and Running Costs

All Qashqai models, except the Ti e-POWER, share a 1.3-liter turbocharged petrol engine that delivers a punchy driving experience. While it won’t win any drag races, it offers enough power for city commutes and highway cruising. Fuel economy sits around the mid-7L/100km mark, which is decent for the class.

However, the star of the show might be the Ti e-POWER. This innovative hybrid system uses a petrol engine to generate electricity for the electric motor that drives the wheels. While the petrol engine never directly powers the wheels, it kicks in seamlessly when needed, offering a smooth and efficient driving experience. Plus, the claimed fuel economy of 5.3L/100km is a major win for eco-conscious drivers and those looking to save at the pump.

How Does it Compare?

The Qashqai faces stiff competition in the small SUV arena. Contenders like the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, and Hyundai Tucson all offer compelling packages. While the Qashqai might not have the most spacious cargo area, it makes up for it with its stylish design, comfortable interior, and impressive safety features. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities.

Conclusion

The 2024 Nissan Qashqai is a well-rounded option for Australian drivers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and feature-packed small SUV. Its blend of practicality, technology, and safety makes it a compelling choice for families, young professionals, and anyone who wants to navigate the city or hit the open road in style. The available hybrid option adds a significant advantage for those prioritizing fuel efficiency.

While the cargo space might be a tad tight and the starting price might inch up on higher trims, the overall package the Qashqai offers is hard to beat.

Rating: 8/10

With its impressive features, smooth driving experience, and focus on safety, the Qashqai scores an impressive 8 out of 10. So, if you’re in the market for a compact SUV that punches above its weight, the Nissan Qashqai is definitely worth a test drive.

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Jun 19, 2024 2:00 PM

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