The Nissan Qashqai is a compact SUV that sits below the X-Trail. It is inspired by the concept car of the same name available at the Geneva Motor Show 2004.
Qashqai is the name of the nomadic tribe living in the desert near the Zagros Mountains in southwestern Iran. Therefore, the Nissan Qashqai should be seen as an "urban nomad," as pointed to by the Director of Nissan Design Europe's Design Stephane Schwarz.
Although the initial design concepts emerged in Japan, most of QASHQAI's design and all development work has been carried out in Europe, mainly in London and at Nissan Technical Center Europe (NTCE) in Cranfield also in the UK.
The team quickly realized that the new market was becoming more complex and that when it comes to buyers in the C segment, the conventional hatchbacks and sedans like the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus were no longer as exciting as before.
The work on the Qashqai began in 2003 with the development of a show car first presented at the Geneva Motor Show 2004. The production version of the Qashqai concept differs from a considerable number of elements.
For the Nissan Qashqai has adapted part of the image of Murano and a couple of design elements common to both: the ascending line of the third window, for example.
The design development started in Japan. Schwarz was at that time Deputy Chief Product Designer at Nissan Design Center in Tokyo, where he worked on product planning, marketing and engineering at different concepts, before reaching the final selection of design for the production model. The Qashqai was one of those projects.
Once received the approval, the project continued in the new facilities of Nissan Design Europe (NDE) located in London, where Schwarz and his team began work in December 2004. NDE has over 60 designers from different nationalities, makers of models and other support staff, all with the mission of designing the next generation of Nissan cars for Europe.
The first project built from scratch in NDE
The Qashqai is the first project completely produced in NDE and takes over the previous project of making the Micra hatchback into the newly launched Micra C + C coupé / convertible. In addition, the Qashqai is not a product only for Europe but that will be sold globally.
The side profile follows the movement of the roofline and finishes with a small triangular third window that tilts up emulating the style of Murano.
The rear lamp assembly is divided for maximum load width of the trunk. The auxiliary brake light is built into the rear spoiler above the tailgate. In the front we find five lamps lined divided into four groups for separate optical lights, twin headlights, intermittent tinted blue. Front fog lamps are integrated into the bumper.
You can choose from a range of 11 colors-four totally new. The four new colors are metallic: the Cosmos Silver, blue-gray Entricta called Gray, Yellow and intense Magma Copper Fusion, a red that is close to bronze. The levers and mirrors are finished in the same body color on Acenta and Tekna models and black on Visia model.
Dimensions
Regarding its size, sits on a wheelbase of 2631 mm, has a height of 1606 mm, width 1783 and a length of 4,315 mm. The Qashqai has the same size as a Ford Focus.
The Qashqai is about 100 mm longer than the typical hatchback, and about 150 mm shorter than the common SUV. It is about 100 or 150 mm higher than its hatchback rivals, but still remains 130 mm shorter than an SUV.
The distance between the bottom and the floor is 200 mm, the angles of attack and departure are 19.2 and 30.2 degrees respectively, better than a hatchback but without reaching the numbers of a 4x4. As the numbers show, is not designed as a 4x4 and should not think of it as such. The option of four-wheel traction exists simply to provide more traction and better security, whatever the road conditions.
The Nissan Design Center Europa is located very near the Grand Union Canal in Paddington, a unique building called the Rotunda. Built with reinforced concrete in 1966, its original function was to store the British railway system maintenance.
Inside
All control knobs Qashqai, the more and less important, have been placed around the driver, who is separated from the passenger seat by a high center console rare. The parking brake is fully integrated into the center console, in turn, contains a double and a reposavasos storage space for objects embedded in the armrest swing.
One of the most important control knobs of the Qashqai is located in the front of the center console just behind the gearshift lever, the system of All Mode 4x4 traction.
In front of the driver, and placed under the domed hood, find the instrument panel and the onboard computer. Other minor controls are ergonomically placed in the center of the dash above the shifter and under the two fans, surrounded by metallic rings. On the other hand, steering wheel houses the audio equipment controls.
A white LED lights illuminate the dials both day and night, while the other illuminated parts using a new tone orange, including the onboard computer in the center of the instrument panel, controls for the power windows and the controls for the stereo and navigation. This orange color is also used to get a diffuse ambient lighting inside the cabin. This method of lighting controls in future be used Nissan vehicles.
To accentuate the difference between areas of the driver and the rest of the cabin, the instrument panel in front of the passenger has finished with a marbled effect different from the area located in front of the driver.
Shades
In the more luxurious finish, the contrast between the spaces is even more marked, with finishes in various colors. While the entry-level degree, the Visia, Tekna and sports, have a totally black instrument panel, in the accent, the space before the driver is also black but also is complemented by a chocolate brown tone front passenger .
The upholstery has been applied a similar principle. Visia finish has cloth seats and dark gray interior in the predominantly black. For his part, Tekna has black cloth seats where there is an insertion in dark gray in the middle section. The interior of Tekna, which continues to dominate the black, has some metallic highlights aluminum finishes that appear on the wheel, the edges of the gear lever and door handles.
The emphasis, in total contrast, use color in the seats, in addition to the instrument panel and doors, to create a different atmosphere. Taking inspiration from athletic apparel, seats use a brick-colored material in the form of mail for the middle section through which you can see the black cloth used as a base to cover the rest of the seat.
Both finished Tekna Acenta as an optional feature leather upholstery embossed in chocolate for accent color and black for the Tekna.
Sculpted seats
The front seats have side bolsters stuffed with high density foam, which gives the driver more grip on the seat to take the curves. The rear seats, split folding in a ratio of 60/40, offer maximum comfort for two people, but the Qashqai is a complete vehicle for five people with three safety belts for all occupants points.
The seats can be folded to increase cargo capacity. The seat is fixed so you just have to throw a switch in a single operation to fold each of the backups. When the seats are folded down, if it includes an emergency spare tire, the cargo space is completely flat from the tailgate to the back of the front seats, thanks to a floor to keep the wheel slightly lower. However, the floor for the spare wheel of the Qashqai can also accommodate normal size wheel leaving the trunk in this case almost flat. Furthermore, to increase comfort, not necessary to remove the headrests before folding the seats.
Interior Capacities
Cargo capacity with the rear tray is 410 set cubrequipajes liters, a little more of what they offer vehicles like the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf or the Opel Astra. When the seats are folded, the capacity increases until about 1513 liters. With a minimal intrusion of rear suspension components, the maximum width of boot space of 1,188 mm, while the maximum load height is 779 mm.
Storage
The chilled glove box has a capacity of 14 liters, making it large enough to store 15 cans of drink, also has a handy hook to hold sunglasses. Moreover, in each of the front door pockets can store a half-liter bottle and an A4 size map. In the rear seats are arranged mesh pockets big enough to store maps in A3 size.
The storage box in the center console has a capacity of 3.5 liters and it can store up to eight CDs in their boxes. Below find the passenger seat sliding drawer with a capacity of four liters.
Panoramic glass roof
The panoramic glass roof is optional and has some measures 1,040 mm by 880 mm, the roof covers two rows of seats. Is made of tinted laminated glass, which filters harmful UV rays and avoid overheating of the carrier. According to Nissan, the ventilation system of low pressure maintains the desired temperature.
For added protection and get more isolation, the Qashqai has a curtain that is operated electrically at the push of a button. Laminated glass roof provides greater safety in the event of a rollover accident, while providing increased security against theft.
The Qashqai is the first European car to be manufactured on the new platform 'C' of the Renault / Nissan.
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Isolation of subframe
The front suspension is independent MacPherson type and is mounted on a subframe with rubber blocks anchored to filter out vibrations. The suspension has Zachs dampers installed on the top and a torsion bar.
Multi-link rear suspension
The multilink rear suspension is fully independent. This suspension is attached to the body through a rear subframe to minimize noise and vibration. Moreover, one of the upper arms of the set was manufactured in aluminum to provide a weight reduction of about four kilos. Also, the rear shock absorbers are tilted to ensure minimal intrusion into the luggage area as Nissan studies show that this is a common complaint among customers in the segment.
The springs reduce body roll. Moreover, the adoption of friction control dampers which improves ride comfort. The engineers at Nissan's technical centers in Europe, located in the United Kingdom and Barcelona, have been responsible for tuning the vehicle.
According to the versions, the Qashqai will be equipped with 16-inch wheels or alloy steel shod with 215/65R tires or radios lined 17-inch screws with unusual ball shaped. 17-inch tires 215/60R tires mounted.
Electric Power Steering
The electric power steering (EPS) in attendance varies depending on speed. The system checks the speed changes every 40 milliseconds and detects variations of 0.01 km / h.
The system uses a brushless DC motor which results in lower friction losses which, in turn, means lower costs for wear and lower maintenance costs. The absence of a traditional hydraulic pump in the system, there are benefits for fuel consumption. During tests, assisted electronic address has been shown to improve fuel consumption by 0.11 liters per 100 kilometers. The steering wheel is adjustable in depth and height.
Brake Team
Disc brakes and standard ABS brakes are enhanced by the Brake Assist system and electronic brake distribution (EBD). The Brake Assist maintains maximum deceleration during an emergency stop while EBD constantly alters the balance between front and rear for thereby achieving a optimum performance braking, automatically compensating for different load conditions.
All Mode 4x4
The system of four-wheel drive Qashqai incorporates the All Mode 4x4 system. To ensure that the transmission is transferred between wheels and axles as a problem arises, the All Mode 4x4 uses advanced electronics rather than rotating unit.
Under normal circumstances, the Qashqai operates with front wheel drive which reduces energy loss and also saves fuel. However, when it detects a loss of grip, the center clutch rear transmission active and transmission electronically distributed between the front and rear to suit.
Three position settings
The system has three modes that are selected with a knob on the center console. In 2WD, the system always operates in front wheel drive, ideal for use on the road when weather conditions are good. However, when the Lock option is chosen, the system switches to four-wheel-drive, delivering traction in a 50:50 ratio front and rear respectively.
The most used is Auto. When selected, we can forget what the road conditions because the system does automatically. Various sensors (which connect the engine ECU with the four-wheel drive and ABS controller) continuously monitor wheel slippage and sends electromagnetic signals to the central clutch automatically placed in front of the rear axle to distribute torque ratio correct.
If the Qashqai is left in Auto mode, the system will automatically compensate when the road in slippery conditions caused by wet leaves in autumn, the ice itself winter mornings or loose gravel at any time of year.
Electronic Systems
The All Mode 4x4 is attached to the Electronic Traction Control (ESP) of Bosch's eighth generation. Using sensors attached to the brakes, steering, wheels and the body itself, ESP constantly monitors the way you drive the car.
From the steering angle and wheel speeds, ESP calculates what maneuvers the driver intends to perform and, through signals given by the ratio of turn and acceleration sensors, ESP recognizes whether it is possible that the vehicle is out of its path. In an emergency, ESP reacts swiftly and applies the brakes selectively on each wheel and the vehicle routing in the desired direction.
Also, the Qashqai has other electronic control systems such as the CBC (Concerning Brake Control) and the EUC (enhanced understeer control). In the latter, the system applies the brakes to all four wheels to reduce excessive understeer. Finally, the HFC (Hydraulic Fade Compensation) prevents the brakes fail after having been used over a long period.
Four engines
Of the four different engines available to the Qashqai, the development of units of gasoline has been led by Nissan and Renault, the other partner in the Alliance, led the design of the two common-rail diesel engines.
Engine 1.6 liter 115 hp
The gasoline engine was originally developed for the SR Micra and Note. But to equip the Qashqai, increased torque and power of this all-aluminum unit made of 1,598 cc, developing 115 hp and 156 Nm of torque, which means an increase of 5 hp and 3 Nm to the original.
Motor is a lighter-about 25kg lighter than the previous unit of 1.6 petrol Nissan-and thermally very efficient. It has four valves per cylinder, variable valve multipoint injection.
Performance numbers include a top speed of 175 km / h, with acceleration from 0 to 100 kph in 12 seconds. The combined cycle consumption of 6.7 l/100km at intervals between overhauls than 30,000 kms. The front-wheel drive is transferred through a five-speed box.
2.0-liter 140 hp
The 2.0-liter petrol unit is a lightweight engine that currently carry the Nissan models sold in Japan. This is another design aluminum 16-valve, 1,997 cc, 140 hp and 196 Nm of torque. About 90 percent of that torque is available from 2,000 rpm, providing a point of acceleration usually more suited to larger engines.
The 2.0 is almost as compact as the engine 1.6 and one of its main design features is the noticeable reduction of friction. It has applied a technique similar to a mirror finish to the surfaces of the axis of the crankpin of the crankshaft and cam crank. It used a new method of milling the engine that ensures the use of truly circular cylinder diameters: This procedure is common practice in the milling of cylinder racing engines but is seldom used in vehicle engines serial.
The 2.0 petrol engine is available with front wheel drive or four-wheeled box with a manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT) with manual control. The performance numbers for the release include a top speed of 190 km / h, acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h in 10.6 seconds and approved an average consumption of 8.4 l/100 km. The intervals between overhauls are also 30,000 km.
CVT
The CVT is a type of computer-controlled transmission that virtually provides an unlimited number of gears. This ensures that the engine always works in the most efficient way possible, resulting in a smoother acceleration and a decrease in fuel consumption and reduced emissions. In fact, both versions of two-wheel drive and traction on all four wheels, the CVT option produces less CO2 and lower consumption compared with the manual transmission.
Furthermore, the CVT is more comfortable. In an uphill journey for a long period of time, a conventional automatic gear change inevitably leads to reductions in place to ensure the power required at the time. With the CVT, the engine speed is constant because it is the transmission itself which is adjusted to ensure that power is maintained. The CVT also ensures less power is lost, which equals better efficiency and acceleration.
In case you want to make a sportier driving, the CVT system has a manual control. Operated via the central lever, can be reached at six-speed manual with only move the lever forward or backward.
Motor 1.5 dCi 108 cv
The range consists of two units dCi common-rail direct injection of the second generation. The simplest unit uses diesel more powerful version of the 1.5 dci (K9K) that develops 108 bhp and a torque of 240 Nm. It has a flexible system to filter the effects of acyclic movements. This engine has been specifically developed to comply with Euro 4 legislation, has a compression ratio (16:1) lowered and variable geometry turbo. (We tested the 85 hp version of the Note and the 105 hp version of the Modus and Clio Renaul)
Motor 2.0 dCi 150 cv
The 2.0 dCi engine is brand new (test the 2.0 dCi 150 hp in the Renault Laguna). It has a Bosch piezoelectric injection system of 150 hp and 320 Nm of torque. Piezo technology offers fast and precise control that allows an injection cycle of five jets, two leading jets, one main jet and two jets later.
Previous jets improve engine acoustics by minimizing the inherent noise of the diesel. For its part, the jets maintain subsequent main injection combustion, to burn off soot and thus reduce pollutant emissions before the gases have left the combustion chamber.
The recirculating exhaust gases (EGR) produces a controlled temperature rise in the combustion chamber to reduce pollutant emission levels (NOx) and improved environmental performance of the engine, thus complying with Euro 4 legislation.
DPF Technology
A priority for the engineers was to improve the acoustics of this new engine. The bottom of the engine, with its cast aluminum plaque is designed to achieve greater efficiency and improved vibration absorption. Two balancing shafts rotating eliminate vibration of the crankshaft rotational what constitutes a major contribution to refinement.
The 1.5 dCi engine performance is 174 km / h top speed with an acceleration of 12.2 seconds, and consumption of 5.4 l/100km. Are in the 2.0 dCi 190 km / h top speed, acceleration in 10.9 seconds and a consumption of 190 km / h. Both engines have intervals between overhauls of 20,000 km.
The 1.5 dCi engine transmits power to the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. The versions of two-wheel drive 2.0 dCi engine now also use a manual gearbox with six speeds, whereas the version of four-wheel drive offers the choice between the six-speed manual gearbox and automatic six also speeds.
Weatherization
When air conditioning is included, whether the manual or automatic system with two zones, depending on the model, the vehicle has an added refinement. So above the instrument panel are a fan of independently controlled current that delivers gentle breeze puffs of light throughout the interior.
In addition to cool the cabin faster than a conventional air conditioning system, makes it more quiet and comfortable. Instead of having to turn the fan in a high position, and having cold air directly in the face as a result, the moderate flow fan gets to work to lower the temperature in the most efficient, quiet and smooth as possible.
Bluetooth Handsfree
Bluetooth connectivity for mobile phones. All Qashqai with factory sound system will have integrated Bluetooth system for mobile phone use. To improve the quality of the voice, a microphone is installed near the rearview mirror. On the other hand, calls are automatically listen through the audio system, which eliminates the volume of the rest of the team for the duration of the call.
The fully integrated Bluetooth, which means that the caller ID screen appears in the audio system that has a domestic agenda that can store up to 40 phone numbers. Once programmed, the phone can be in the pocket or purse because the system automatically recognizes its presence as soon as you start the engine, making it into an even more comfortable and secure.
The audio system varies depending on the model, but always includes a radio with CD and radio with six-disc CD charger in the front. The stereo controls are integrated into the steering wheel.
Navigation screen
The latest communication package includes DVD satellite navigation. The system, first used in the Pathfinder, provides maps covering 26 countries across Europe, including Poland, Slovenia, the Canary Islands, Croatia and Hungary.
The seven-inch screen benefits from improved graphics and includes the dual display of maps and views of intersections from the air. The system also has voice recognition in seven languages.
If you choose the model with satellite navigation, the package is complete with a rear view camera in color. The display includes static guides that allow parking provided with millimeter precision. The final icing adds a six-CD in which you can also play MP3s.
The standard preparation includes four stereo speakers mounted in the door panels, with the option available of double tweeters mounted on the dashboard.
Instruments with backlight
To ensure that the instruments are treated quickly at any time of day, are permanently lit. The onboard computer, which is located between the speedometer and tachometer, is always lit in orange, contrasting with white LED illumination of the rest of dials.
The computer offers travel information in real time, including the cost of the fuel, distance traveled, time, date, performance under the hood and engine maintenance needs. In the dials and the controls are also illuminated with the same orange color saturated. Moreover, the ambient light is amber light that bathes the interior of the vehicle.
Safety equipment
Active safety features include antilock brakes (ABS) with Brake Assist (BAS) and electronic brake distribution (EBD). Also, the electronic traction control (ESP) and the All Mode 4x4 provided the most traction possible regardless of what the conditions of the road.
The passive safety equipment starts with six airbags standard on all models. Thus, we find a dual airbags for driver and front passenger, thorax side airbags for front seat-mounted side curtain airbags and long on both sides of the car in a side impact may provide additional security to the occupants.
Active head restraints are also included in the front seats, thus minimizing the likelihood of neck injury in rear impact case. Also, the panoramic roof is made of laminated glass to ensure that in case of a rollover impact will not be shattered.
The front passenger airbag can be disabled so that the seat can be used for a child seat facing the rear. The switch is located on the passenger side of the dashboard and is accessible when the door is open. To activate it you must use the key to the vehicle, so there is no risk of inadvertent shutdown. Another security measure is the auditory signal that reminds the driver of the need to buckle up.
ng> Belt pretensioners
The front seat belts equipped with pretensioners that tighten the belt at the time of impact. Using sensors to determine the rate of deceleration, and therefore, the severity of the crash, the system triggers a pyrotechnic gas generator that collects and tightens the seat belt retractor. The three rear seats have three-point harnesses.
Within its "technical equipment" include automatic lights, the automatic dimming rear windows and wipers are activated by rain in both the front and rear. In the front, flat rubber wipers are used to reduce wind noise and improve efficiency. The rear wiper is put into operation automatically when the front and work when you reverse.
Smart also has a key that allows the car to open and close, and the engine starts or stops without having to leave the key from his pocket, purse or briefcase. It also prevents one can be locked inside the vehicle and the sensors detect its presence in the carrier and set up an alarm warning while preventing the door closes.
Safety features include a standard immobilizer and a self-closing doors once the vehicle has reached 12 km / h. The models do not have rear view camera equipped with sensors for parking.
More comfort
The Qashqai can be equipped with power windows, cruise control and intermittent which is only switched on and off three times when activated by pressing the Command (perfect for maximum visibility when changing lanes on a freeway, for example).
Standard features on the entry level model, the Visia, includes ABS with EBD and BAS, six airbags, power windows, trip computer, front armrest, driver seat height adjustable 16-inch wheels with hubcaps that seem to tire.
The Acenta and Tekna also added a radio with CD player and Bluetooth, remote audio controls, manual air conditioning, automatic lights and wipers, rear armrest, door mirrors and handles the body color, and adjustable lumbar support in seat the driver.
Although each market will depend on a special option package added independent dual control air conditioning, alloy wheels, panoramic glass roof, parking sensor, front fog lamps and leather steering wheel.
Main Options
The main options of equipment include Intelligent Key, mirrors fold electrically, leather upholstery, Xenon lights, cruise control, six-CD charger, ESP, navigation system and rear view camera.
The accessory line is composed of the roof rails, an extended roof spoiler, corner guards, a cap on the rear bumper, side steps and bars, chrome caps for the side mirrors, curtains for sun and a box storage that also serves as a rear center armrest.
Expectations
Nissan expects that 80 percent of sales of this vehicle in its first two years are conquests from other manufacturers and the car has the 2.5 percent of the segment 'C'.
Nissan aims to two different types of buyer for the Qashqai: those who are about to have family and have already started to have offspring. These two groups together make up 67 percent of buyers in that segment. These people are mainly young car enthusiasts are always looking for something different.
Influences on purchase
Market studies indicate that the price, design and size are the three main factors when deciding on a purchase in segment C. Customers appreciate the high driving position itself in the compact SUV, but what I appreciate most is the sense of security they find in any car in this segment. Buyers also have other values in high esteem as the style, versatility and personality of the vehicle.
It is expected that the All Mode 4x4 count on average in Europe, with at least 40 percent of sales. It is also hoped that the engines
2.0 petrol and diesel sold more than the smaller cylinder engine, despite the price advantage of the latter.
Investment and construction
The Qashqai is the tenth model to Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK (NMUK) since the factory began production over 20 years.
Qashqai will be produced in Europe at Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK (NMUK) in Sunderland in northeast England, the most productive plant of the company. The Qashqai becomes the third new model made in NMUK in the past 16 months. Nissan expects to produce 400,000 units of the Qashqai in 2007.
The Nissan Qashqai represents a total investment of 322.8 million euros. This project ensures a level of employment of 3,000 people on the ground and in the regional supply chain. It created 200 new jobs were temporary and 100 trainee posts at the Sunderland plant.
About 80% of QASHQAI production will go to exports, mainly directed to the European market. This vehicle will also be exported to other markets like the Middle East, Australia, South Africa and Japan, which is the second time that a model made in Sunderland is available in the Japanese market, the first being the First in 1996.
In addition, the Qashqai is the first model built under the new "Integrated Production System Nissan," recently installed at the factory in Sunderland. This is a new flexible line being adopted currently in Nissan plants around the world. Its many benefits over conventional line include a reduction in production times, more ergonomic installation, production of various models, random sequence production and increased integration with suppliers.
The 2010 Qashqai and Qashqai +2, redesigning the body and improving equipment. While the range of mechanical unchanged, it introduces a new version with a very low fuel consumption. The new range will be available at dealerships of the brand from March.
