Nissan unveils the new 2022 Qashqai
As demonstrated a few weeks ago, the Nissan Qashqai of the current generation is starting to get old. At least, it no longer fits with the philosophy that Nissan is taking with the new genre Rogue, Sentra and Pathfinder. This situation is about to change, with the unveiling of the next generation of this subcompact SUV.
The exterior lines are scalable compared to what they are on the currently sold Qashqai. The V-Motion grille takes on proportions and the headlights are now separated into two sections; the upper section includes the daytime running lights and the lower section incorporates LED headlights, like the Rogue or the Pathfinder. The profile and rear once again preserve the aggressive and reinforced approach, embellished on some versions of the roof in contrasting color. The flat rear lights are also reminiscent of those of a Toyota Highlander.
It is especially inside that the changes are drastic and the interior resembles that of the Rogue. The interior gains in seriousness and – at least in appearance – in build quality with sophisticated materials and color contrasts. The multimedia screen can reach 9 inches (as in the Nissan Rogue) and the instrumentation is now fully digital with a dimension of 12.3 inches on the most equipped versions. A 9-inch heads-up display is also offered. The boot floor is lowered by 20 mm, which increases the volume by 50 liters (for a total of almost 700 liters).
On the technical side, the Qashqai uses the CMF-C architecture, which gives it slightly increased dimensions. It is 35mm longer, 32mm wider, 25mm taller and has an extended wheelbase of 20mm. In terms of engines, versions sold elsewhere can be equipped with several engines, including two turbocharged 1.3-liter engines, whose power will oscillate between 138 and 156 horsepower. There’s also an e-Power powertrain, featuring a 154-horsepower 1.5-liter variable-compression engine that serves as a generator to power a 187-horsepower electric motor, which tows the vehicle.
Although there is reason to believe that none of its powertrains are offered in Canada and that the Sentra’s 149 horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder will be favored, nothing has been confirmed by the manufacturer. Expect a continuously variable automatic transmission and front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Like all other models in the Nissan lineup, the Qashqai can be equipped with a safety suite included in the ProPILOT Assist package, including, among other things, intelligent cruise control and blind spot detection.
No information as to the date of arrival of the model in Canada has been confirmed by the manufacturer. We will have more information in the coming months.
