The second-generation Nissan Qashqai has been one of South Africa's most popular crossovers since its launch back in July 2014. Since then, Nissan South Africa has added quite a few models. Let's take a look at the line-up.

The Nissan Qashqai is a very popular compact crossover that regularly features as one of the top-selling models in its segment. Since it was launched back in 2014, it has had a few model updates and engine introductions to improve the offering. The most recent additions to the range are the 1.2-litre CVT auto and the 1.6-litre top-of-the-range turbopetrol.

The range consists of sevenmodels with fourengine options (two diesels and two petrols).The entry-level model is the 1.2-litre turbopetrol Visia that starts from R325 900. The 1.2 turbopetrol does a good job of carting the Qashqai around but struggles a bit when heavily loaded and out on the freeway. For everyday driving it’s economical, with Nissan claiming 6.2L/100km with a manual gearbox that’s light and easy to swing through the gears. Alloy wheels are an optional extra but all the basics are taken care of in terms of air conditioning, cruise control, USB and Aux connectivity and electric windows. If you want to add some of the modern niceties such as auto headlamps or climate control, there’s no choice but to move up to the Acenta derivatives.

The Acenta offering starts with the manual model at R349 900 and improves on the Visia model with standard 17-inch wheels, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, dual-zone climate control and a better sound system. The Acenta models can be equipped with comprehensive optional Design and Techno packs. The Techno pack is worth the extra outlay as it adds really useful features like the 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system and the camera system that allows you to see around the entirecar. Nissan Connect is also part of the Techno pack, allowing Smartphone connectivity and certain functions like Google search and Facebook are available within the touchscreen. The 1.2 Acenta is available in an auto (CVT) but costs R366 900 and drags the athletic performance back a bit.

The Qashqai remains a strong (and stylish) contender in the compact crossover segment.

The two-wheel-drive Acenta specification Qashqai is also available in a 1.5-turbodiesel model, which may just be the sweet spot in the range. It’s priced slightly higher at R376 900 but the fuel savings and added torque make for a more pleasant drive. Fuel consumption is claimed at just 4.2L/100km but you’re unlikely to match that unless you’re an experienced hypermiler.

The 1.6-litre models all get additional exterior and interior enhancements. LED headlamps are installed, 19-inch wheels are standard and there are chrome surrounds on the fog lamps and roof rails. The interior gets an intelligent key that never has to leave your pocket and a start button on the dashboard. Engine wise the 1.6-litre turbodiesel has plenty of grunt but suffers from a bit of low-down turbo lag. Unfortunately, the 1.6-litre petrol engine isn't available paired with an automatic transmission.The 1.6-litre diesel is offered with the option of aCVT (4×2) and there's also a manual only 4×4 option. The Techno pack is again available as an extra but with an additional option of heated seats.

For those waiting for the next batch of updates for the Qashqai, Nissan SA assured us that the lineup will remain unchanged for the next 12 months.

Nissan Qashqai Pricing (February 2017)

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