The Nissan Qashqai has received a comprehensive refresh to its exterior - as well as significant technology updates such as Google built-in - a first for Nissan in Europe.
One of the most commonly used features on the Qashqai has been significantly upgraded. Around View Monitor [AVM] is a signature Nissan technology which dates back to 2007. The newly upgraded AVM tech employs four cameras to deliver an even better view in all light conditions.
The upgraded AVM system now features a 3D function allowing the driver to see the car from above. But the driver can also select one of eight different external camera view points to visualise the car from the front, rear, sides or corners to potentially identify any unseen exterior hazards.
Additionally, a feature known as 'invisible hood view' allows the driver to see the position of the front wheels as if looking at them from just behind. This enables them to precisely manoeuvre in tight locations, such as multi-story car park where there are concrete curbs which would damage a wheel.
Another new smart AVM feature is 'Parking Spot Location Memory' which allows the Qashqai driver to save frequently visited parking locations so the car will automatically recognise the location using GPS.
Furthermore, the AVM tech can be used to help drivers make a safe entry from a difficult exit onto a road where visibility is limited. It uses a wide angle front camera to show the view from the front of the bonnet, projected onto the central screen.
The suite of driver assistance systems has been significantly upgraded. Firstly, the Autonomous Emergency Braking functions have been recalibrated to sharpen its risk detection and to react more quickly in case of possible collision. This applies to Front Emergency Brake, Pedestrian Front Emergency Brake, Front Emergency Brake Cyclist, and Intelligent Emergency Brake functions.
In the case of emergency braking, the Emergency Stop Signal will be activated. This triggers the flashing of the rear brake lights to catch the attention of vehicles behind. It activates when a sudden brake pressure is applied at above 60km/h.
The Emergency Lane Keep System is now automatically activated on starting the Qashqai. It triggers the operation of both Lane Departure Warning and Lane Departure Prevention systems at speeds above 60km/h. It consists of a haptic warning via a vibration through the steering wheel when the system detects the car is too close to either the central lines or the side of the road.
The Intelligent Speed Assistance system which helps the driver to adapt the vehicle system to the prevailing speed limit by using both a camera to read speed limit road signs as well as GPS data has been upgraded. A flashing icon already catches the driver’s attention when they are above the speed limit, and it will now sound an alarm if they don’t reduce their speed.
New for the upgraded Qashqai is the quick and simple Driver Assist Custom Mode, which allows drivers to quickly tailor the precise level of intervention from the different assistance technologies according to their preferences. This can take place via a two-step process using the shortcut menu button on the left spoke of the steering wheel and the 'Ok' button.
As mentioned, the refreshed Qashqai is the first vehicle in Nissan’s European range with the suite of Google built-in. It's now available with Google Maps and, once signed-in, with a personal Google Account drivers can access their favourite locations and points of interest. This reduces the dependence on a mobile phone and cellular phone network.
Exterior
Outside, the front grille of the Qashqai has been comprehensively updated, which Nissan says has been inspired by the patterns of ancient Japanese armour scales.
It now consists of dozens of high gloss, three dimensional comma-shaped elements painted in high gloss black paint which appear to float in the space between the lip of the bonnet and the numberplate holder.
New headlights now feature an adaptive high beam module complemented by a smaller unit for wider beam distribution, useful for increased visibility in low-light conditions and fog. The daytime running lights now encircle the main headlight lens, joining with the thin light above the headlight which is similar to the unit on the previous iteration of Qashqai, but it now has an illuminated 'Nissan' on its outboard edge. The upper daytime running light element becomes the turn indicator when activated and, for the first time, features sequential turning lights (depending on grade ).
At the rear, the shape of the lights remains unchanged but the composition of the lights within the unit has been redesigned. The red lighting elements now consist of four individual elements which appear to float in the lens housing and are now a distinctive shade of red, known as “super red”.
The bumper has been reshaped and now features harmonised colour – either gloss black on the higher grade versions or body coloured on the new N-Design grade. Likewise, when viewed in profile, the updated Qashqai on the higher grades benefits from a new gloss black finish on the body beneath the doors and wheel arches.
A new 18-inch diamond cut alloy wheel is now standard on the mid-grade Qashqai. For the higher grades, there is a new 19-inch alloy and a new 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheel design.
Three new colours have been added to the Qashqai’s palette - 'Pearl White' and 'Deep Ocean' are new, while 'Pearl Black' replaces the previous black option. Five of the Qashqai colours are all available in two-tone with a black roof.
Inside, there is the option of Alcantara on the dashboard, door inserts, door armrests, centre storage console lid and even the knee pads. New patterned materials adorn the centre console around the gear selector and the decoration insert between the upper dashboard and glovebox.
Updated seat trims have been introduced across the upper three grades of the Qashqai. Most notable is the black partially quilted premium leather on the top spec model. Another new addition is ambient lighting which can be controlled via the central infotainment screen.
Under all of these new upgrades, the Nissan Qashqai keeps it mild-hybrid petrol engine as standard, with the e-Power hybrid system remaining an option. Its official economy figures are also unchanged.
No word yet as to when the face-lifted Qashqai will land on Irish shores.
