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Inspired by the concept car of the same name that was presented at the 2004 Geneva Motor Show, the QASHQAI (pronounced "cash - kai") is a new vehicle for Nissan in Europe, with sales starting in February 2007.
It is said to cater for those car buyers who want a more dynamic design than that offered by a traditional C-segment car, but who are not attracted to the large, aggressive nature of a compact SUV.
The QASHQAI is described as a crossover as passenger car attributes meet those of a 4x4. In terms of size, QASHQAI sits between C-segment hatchbacks and SUVs. It has a wheelbase of 2630mm; it is 1610mm tall, 1780mm wide and 4310mm long. It is about 100mm longer than a typical hatchback but 150mm shorter than a typical SUV. Similarly, it is taller than rival hatchbacks by between 100-150mm yet up to 130mm lower than an SUV.
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Four engine options will be available, two diesel and two petrol offerings; the 1.6-litre petrol offers 115PS of power and 160Nm of torque, while the 2.0-litre produces 140PS and 200Nm. The diesel engine options - 1.5- and 2.0-litre - provide 106 and 150PS and 240 and 320Nm of torque respectively. Both 2.0-litre engine options can be specified with Nissan's advanced ALL-MODE 4x4 system which gives added security and stability in marginal conditions.
Several gearbox options are available, according to engine choice. These include a five- and six-speed manual, a new six-speed automatic and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) option with manual mode.
Speaking at the launch event in Paris, Mr Ghosn said, "European customers want it all: dynamic design, driving performance and attractive premium interior. QASHQAI delivers all which is why it will lead our sales growth in Europe and the growth in recognition of Nissan as a truly bold, thoughtful and innovative Japanese brand.
"We expect QASHQAI will sell more than 100,000 units a year on average across Europe - with 80% of those customers buying a Nissan for the first time. Before QASHQAI, they drove a premium C-segment car, a compact 4x4 or a D-segment car," added Mr Ghosn.
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