For a real facelift it is still too early, Nissan has missed his "draft horse" only last year. This time it was "only" for a new engine, but it has it all. In Barcelona, the new 1,3-liter gasoline engine with up to 160 PS should be presented. After a two-hour flight with a nice elderly lady and her dog "boss" from the Catalan capital swarming around, the Nissan team was waiting for us in the middle of town to introduce the new engine with seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. For the first time at Nissan. I have to admit that to date I have never driven a Nissan Qashqai and was very curious to see what the little crossover has on the box. Already the theoretical presentation promised a sporty and direct driving experience as well as an improved acceleration from the stand, apart from the reduced noise level. I could not wait for the practical test the next day.
lions Stark
Unfortunately we were a little disappointed by the weather, because it was raining twine. Fortunately, only in the city, outside cleared it up and we could drive the Nissan Qashqai through the pleasant landscape of Catalonia. For the first ride the 160 PS version was provided directly to us. One should not be lumpy. The charged 1,3-liter four-cylinder with Otto particle filter and Euro-6d-Temp classification, which becomes mandatory from September 2019 purrs quietly like a kitten, but has the power of a full-grown lion. Goes well, one would say, and is fun. More power and torque, a direct response and an even power development characterize the engine, which in addition to a quieter driving experience also contributes to the good mood. All engines are coupled to front-wheel drive and set new standards in terms of driving behavior.
I like it, especially the quiet engine. He is definitely fun. The interior is quite noble for a small SUV. Nappa leather seats with quilted surfaces, a flattened down steering wheel and of course the new NissanConnect infotainment system. Even if we were not allowed to test it directly in the car so as not to accidentally delete the preset routes, we were able to catch up at a terminal in the hotel. The system allows easy Internet updates for maps and software and features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in all trim levels above the entry-level Visia. You can unlock additional features via a new smartphone app called "Door to Door Navigation". The route can be planned at home or in the office and sent to the navigation system. The included service TomTom Premium Traffic provides with real-time traffic data for even better route guidance with more precise travel times. Very handy, especially if you can plan the routes before the trip comfortably on the kitchen table and set.
160 PS vs. 140 PS
Unfortunately, we did not escape the Catalan road traffic and were happy when we drove a route in more rural areas. In between, we swapped the vehicles to test the other engines as well. The 140-hp version of the 1,3-liter delivers 240 Newton meters more torque than its predecessor, and here you can also see the difference to the 160-hp brother. Because when it comes down to it, he weakens a bit on the chest. In terms of consumption, the various power levels hardly differ: the 140 hp version officially needs 5,3 liters per 100 kilometers, as does the more powerful engine. Of course, that always depends on the route and driving style. The values should correct themselves upwards quickly.
The recommendation is therefore clear to the 160 PS version, whether with manual or with dual-clutch transmission. You just have to switch less and you do not feel like you have to push in between when you're in the lower revs. The big engine just makes you more cheerful and reacts faster to accelerator commands. I notice that also in the winding roads of Catalonia and miss the stronger engine a bit. You can tell that something has happened here. The injection system has been improved, the shape of the combustion chamber, the turbocharger and the friction has been reduced. Nice side effect: The service intervals have been extended by 20.000 to 30.000 kilometers.
the price is hot
Luckily, not much has changed compared to its predecessor: The 140-PS-Qashqai is available from 21.350 Euro, the 160 PS cost 2.050 Euro more. And who wants to drive automatic, is with 1.700 Euro here. For the time being, however, the test car, with which we drive a bit into the mountains on the final lap, is enough for us. Hey, if already SUV, because already SUV.
And finally ... Small but oho. The Nissan Qashqai is characterized as a compact but powerful crossover and with the new engines, he should still win a few more fandom. He is quiet, extremely agile and makes mood, even if the smaller engine a few weaknesses are noted. But that should not be of much importance in the city and let's face it, the Catalan mountain landscape does not have anyone on the doorstep.
Driving Report: Simone Amores
Pictures: Simone Amores / Nissan