The Nissan Qashqai is a strange car to say the least. It has the looks of an SUV, but its features and maintenance is more in line with that of a hatchback. No wonder it has been described as the ‘ultimate crossover’ since it merges the two differing types of cars perfectly. Following a redesign in 2010, the Nissan Qashqai is all set to return with a 2014 model. One of the distinct characteristics of the car through the years has been the permanence of the design. Maybe that is the reason why it has remained popular with car buyers despite facing increased competition.
So, despite a few tweaks, it wouldn’t be too much to expect the design of the car to remain intact even in the 2014 version. Keeping this in mind, here is an overview of the features and specifications to be expected from the 2014 Nissan Qashqai.
Performance
From the outset, you will notice the superior driving performance the 2014 Nissan Qashqai has to offer. While the steering lacks the accuracy of the other SUV/hatchback hybrids in the market, the car is easy to control. Moreover, there are a number of sensors to go with a rear-view camera, enabling you to drive and park safely. It goes smoothly over the bumps on the road and doesn’t emit much noise.
There are a number of engine options you can select from. There is the 2.0-litre diesel/petrol engine that comes with a four-wheel drive option designed especially for driving in mountainous areas. If you drive to the mountains regularly, this is the car for you. The best of the lot is the 1.6-litre diesel engine, which surprisingly offers great fuel economy and more power than you would expect from a car such as the 2014 Nissan Qashqai.
The powertrains for all versions of the 2014 Nissan Qashqai are equipped with a standard six-speed manual transmission. However, you can opt for the six-speed automatic transmission to make driving easier. A CVT option is also available but not recommended as it tends to make a lot of noise when you’re on the road.
Interior
The interior of the 2014 Nissan Qashqai is topnotch. You might actually be surprised at the amount of space there is for both passengers and cargo. The driving seat is high-mounted, making it easier to view the road. Even when going at top speed, you won’t hear any noise inside the cabin. Natural light enters the car through the panoramic sunroof, making long journeys enjoyable. Meanwhile, passengers remain cozy and comfortable regardless of the weather and terrain.
Safety
The 2014 Nissan Qashqai comes with a number of standard safety features. Crash testing results and user reviews belie Nissan’s reputation for not being as reliable as it was before. The car comes with antilock disc brakes, brake assist, six airbags and electronic stability control (ESP). Overall, the car is safe, reliable and durable.
So, if you are looking for an SUV with topnotch interior design or a hatchback with extra space, the 2014 Nissan Qashqai is just the car for you. Along with its great features, the 2014 Nissan Qashqai is available at an affordable price, making it a great option.