J11 Qashqai

NISSAN launched the J11 Qashqai in the middle of 2014.

Replacing the popular J10 Dualis – that carried the Qashqai name in most other markets globally anyway – the newcomer eschewed all-wheel drive and the +2 version for a range of petrol and diesel powered offerings in the compact SUV segment.

Along with an all-new body, interior and chassis, the Nissan crossover debuted 12 instead of six month servicing intervals.

As before, there are ST (base) and Ti (high grade) for the petrol versions, and TS and TL for the respective diesel variants.

Based on the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s Common Module Family platform, the Qashqai was designed in London and engineered at Nissan’s Technical Centre facilities in the UK and Spain.

Dimensionally the J11 is slightly longer at 4377mm and wider at 1806mm but lower at 1595mm tall, and sits on a 2646mm wheelbase that has seen a 16mm stretch. Both cabin and cargo space improve as a result.

As before, the engine is mounted transversely, between a pair of MacPherson struts and ventilated disc brakes. Moving to the rear, you will find an independent multi-link suspension system and solid discs.

Gaining direct injection and variable valve timing control among a host of other improvements, the 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol unit produces 106kW of power at 6000rpm and 200Nm of torque at 4400rpm.

Two transmission options drive the front wheels – a six-speed manual or a new-generation CVT Continuously Variable Transmission with manual modeOn the diesel front the Qashqai is relying on Renault’s 1.6-litre direct-injection common-rail four-cylinder engine, delivering 96kW at 4000rpm and 320Nm at 1750rpm, and mated solely to the CVT.

This is the most economical J11 available in Australia, returning 4.9L/100km for a 129g/km CO2 rating. That’s around two litres per 100km better than the petrol equivalent.

Among the technology advances seen in the Dualis’ transformation into Qashqai are Active Ride Control, Active Engine Brake (which Nissan says harnesses the power and controllability of the CVT for shorter stopping distances and better brake feel), and Active Trace Control that applies extra braking force if necessary when cornering.

All Australian-bound models are sourced out of Nissan’s Sunderland plant in the United Kingdom.