Nissan Qashqai hybrid SUV Set to Hit Australian Showrooms
Nissan is ready to bring hybrid vehicles later this year in Australia, but with a different type of hybrid model.
The new Qashqai hybrid SUV from Nissan will take on Toyota’s Corolla Cross Hybrid and the C-HR Hybrid.
The new hybrid model of Qashqai will have a series set-up, where the wheels are only driven by the electric motor. Unlike Toyota’s parallel hybrid, where the power comes from the engine and electric motor to turn the wheels.
In the petrol-electric version of Qashqai, the petrol engine simply serves as a generator to develop electricity for the motor.
The hybrid engine is powered by a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine that gives 110kW/250Nm as output and is linked to a continuously variable automatic transmission.
The expensive Qashqai model, Ti, comes with a 10.8-inch head-up display attached to the windscreen, displaying speed and satellite navigation direction. There is a twin 12.3-inch digital screen attached one on the dash and the other in front of the driver.
All the models have sufficient space, given 32mm wider and 35mm longer, with 20mm more distance between the front and rear wheels to have improved cabin space. Towing capacity has increased by 300kg to 1500kg.
Nissan Australia managing director Adam Paterson said the new models would launch in Australia in the last quarter of 2022.
“We are excited to launch our new Qashqai petrol-electric hybrid version in Australia, but the initial supply of the hybrid version will be limited because of the demand from Europe, where the brand has to meet CO2 emissions standards,” Mr. Paterson said.
Models
There will be four models launched in the second half of this year. Every model will have its own security and hi-tech features.
The ST model is the cheapest, having smaller digital screens along with safety features including centre airbag, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, and rear cross-traffic alert.
The ST+ has some more hi-tech features such as satellite navigation and wireless Apple CarPlay.
The ST-L model comes with heated seats and wireless phone charging. While the expensive model, Ti, sports a larger digital driver display, hands-free tailgate, and 10-speaker Bose audio system.
Price
The price has not been announced yet, but it is expected to be revealed by the next month.
