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Something Different Nissan Qashqai
By Don Booker MBE
 If you want a car with a name that is not easy to pronounce, then it could be the new Nissan Qashqai. But it is filling a gap in the market. For a start you call it “Cash Kai” and it is the Japanese maker’s five-door crossover vehicle that is a compact family car blending the agility and comfort of a hatchback but has the strength and practicality of sports utility vehicle.
The name comes from a nomadic tribe, which my desert adventures have proved still exist today. They live a tough and compact life and that’s just what the Qashqai can offer those who want something different.
It is elegant, yet tough and practical and ideal for town and country motoring. Start at the top, and it looks an exciting saloon that has a distinctive shoulder line that rises at the rear not unlike its stablemate, the Murano.
Move down the body and the sports utility vehicles attributes come to light with a bulky stance, pronounced wheel arches and higher than usual ground clearance. It looks every bit as though it is a costly 4x4 – but prices start at £13,499.
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 This package is taller than the hatchback, yet in the car park took up no more space than a Ford Focus, and although four-wheel-drive versions are offered, it is smaller than the majority SUVs.
There are high seating positions for everyone and the high roofline makes it possible for driver and passengers to sit more upright with more head, shoulder and leg room.
The interior is a nice place to be in and is not flashy with lots of bright trim. Matt silver is the thing and the only chrome I could find was on a door fitting. Instruments can be seen through the steering wheel, are perfectly placed, and there are no distractions on the fascia.
The centre console follows the latest trend and so does the bleep when the handbrake is not fully off. This is essential when the handbrake lever is recessed in the console. There is a big cooled glovebox that can hold 15 cans and the front door pockets can take half-litre bottles and a map book. Mesh pockets at the back of the seats can carry map books, a facility that seems to be missing from some new cars. Not everyone has a Sat Nav on the dash. A panoramic roof is excellent but costs an extra £700.
The Qashqai rides very well and took all the speed humps without a moan. A nuisance they may be, but they are ideal for suspension testing. If you want to add 4x4 facility to its rugged looks, it is an electronic system operated from the console.
There are two petrol, 1.6 and 2-litre power units available plus 1.5 and 2-litre diesels. Which the 2-litre units 4x4 power can be added. Prices range from £13,499 to £23,249 with Visia, Acenta and Tekna versions to meet all needs for those not wanting thirsty 4x4s.
Published Autumn 2007. All information correct at time of print
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