With emphasis on design and technology Nissan Qashqai: from January's second generation available

Nissan is staking a lot on the second generation of the Qashqai, as it is a model that flirted with first place category of sales in several markets.

Is 49 mm. larger than the model it replaces, 20 mm most wide and 15 mm more low, in order to be more correct proportions. Nissan placed great emphasis on design, so the new model of shows from the first moment that is more premium than that which it replaces.

Despite the decrease in height, the space available for passengers ' head has grown by 10 mm. In General, according to the Japanese company, the new Qashqai is roomier and more practical. The boot has grown to 430 litres and has become more open, to ensure easier loading.

Despite of increase in length, the new Qashqai is up to 40 pounds lighter than its predecessor, depending on the version. Nowadays the new model is rare lighter than its predecessor, only happens in the best families. In addition, all engines are turbo charged in new Qashqai, in order to ensure a reduction in consumption and emissions. Greater buying interest is expected to have the basic version with the new gasoline engine of 1,200 c.c. This engine delivers 115 horsepower and 190 Nm of torque. According to Nissan, a car's performance is equivalent to 1600 c.c. The average standard consumption is 5,6 liters/100 km (0.6 down compared to the first generation of Qashqai 1600ari) and emissions 129 g/km.

Diesel engines are known from the Qashqai circulating, although there have been improvements. The version 1.5 dCi delivers 110 horsepower (as before), but the reduction in consumption in 3.8 liters per 100 km (from 4,9) and pollutants in 99 grams per kilometer (from 129) demonstrate that has undergone extensive changes. It has also reduced the noise, according to Nissan.

The version 1.6 dCi is currently the top of the range. Is available with four-wheel drive. Returns 130 horsepower (as before), but the power consumption is reduced to 4.4 liters/100 km (4,5) and emissions at 115 g/km (from 119) when the motion is transmitted to the front wheels. These changes are so small that may be due solely to reduce weight, so in this case we do not see the benefits of extensive changes in the Nissan.

Those who have not been satisfied until now will need to be patient until the summer of 2014. The Qashqai range will add a new top version, with 1,600 ARIS petrol engine. This engine delivers 150 horsepower will and 240 Nm of torque. Despite increased prices compared to the version of 1,200 c.c., the average standard consumption is exactly the same (5.6 liters/100 km) and CO2 emissions of 132 g/km.

All versions can optionally be combined with new Xtronic continuously variable transmission system relationships.

The design will not judge, is something purely subjective. Beyond what the eye sees, the Qashqai has some items that will surely be appreciated by everyone. Such items are the floor level that improves airflow and Active introduction that allows air flow to the engine when this is necessary for cooling down and stops when it is unnecessary. Generally, the Active introduction of closes at speeds above 30 km/h, unless the various sensors detect high temperature in the engine room. This system will be available as standard versions with diesel engine and manual gearbox.

Premium model without quality materials in the cabin is not done, that is why the Japanese company stresses the "dramatic improvement in the quality of the materials and the design of" in the cabin. For the design we will agree, for materials you expect our first contact with the Qashqai to see how enjoyable it is to touch and how to fulfill the function of the various switches.

Handbrake has become electronic, freeing up space in the center console. The Cup holders are more deep, so even bottle to put, not to "find" in this driver's hand when changing speed. The changes are numerous and small, should anyone of experienced to grasp their meaning.