Nissan Qashqai has been unveiled at the 2017 Geneva motor show.
The Qashqai evolved quite a bit since the first generation and it is now a larger, more comfortable and better looking crossover than before. However, with the larger size it also received a softer suspension system. This means that it doesn’t offer the fun to drive character of the original and that’s a shame. In order to get some of that back, an update is expected with the 2018 Nissan Qashqai.
Even though this is going to be nothing more than just a mid-life facelift, it is expected to be quite substantial. For starters, it should receive a few new engines, a new transmission, some changes to its running gear and even a few new models.
In detail about 2018 Nissan Qashqai
The new car will be based on the same platform as before. However, this time around it seems that it might also receive a long wheelbase version.
Even though not official at this point, some of its rivals such as the Tiguan, received seven seats versions. In order to not lag behind, the Qashqai should follow closely. At this point it still is unclear if the model will be offered outside Europe but it is a real possibility.
Its price won’t be impacted all that much by these changes. The only difference will come with the long wheelbase model which is expected to be with up to 10% more expensive than what is currently available on the market.
2018 Nissan Qashqai Video
Nissan Qashqai design
Like we said, the current car is nothing short of a great design. However, it seems that the 2018 Nissan Qashqai will be even better. For starters, the car should receive Nissan’s brand new corporate look in the front.
Here a new grille as well as a new set of headlights are going to be used. These just debuted on the new Pathfinder and we’re happy to announce that the changes are for the better. In the back don’t expect much over a new set of tail lights while new wheels as well as new paint options should also become available.
Inside the cabin
So far it seems that the new Qashqai is not going to change all that much on the interior. Here, except for a new infotainment system and slightly better materials, the car should be pretty similar to the current model.
The main difference here should be the seven seats version. Even though this will benefit from a slightly longer wheelbase, it will have to cram in an extra set of seats.
Because of that there is going to be less space inside the trunk and the middle seats will now be on rails in order to allow the rear passengers easier access towards their seats.
What makes it tick
The 2018 Nissan Qashqai is expected to receive roughly the same engines as the ongoing model. The seven seats model is actually expected to be available only with two engines, a 1.6 liter petrol and a 1.6 liter diesel.
The petrol engine will offer 161 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque while the diesel 129 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. A CVT gearbox should be the only option in any case.
There will be some larger differences to its drivetrain. For starters, the five seats model is expected to get sportier. This should be achieved with a new set of shocks and springs as well as slightly better brakes.
These should bring back the fun provided by the first generation of the car. On top of that, a high performance version has been rumored for quite some time. This would use the same engine found in the Clio RS with its over 200 horsepower.
This would finally give the Qashqai the attention it needs and it would give people a great alternative to its German rivals.
