Nissan Qashqai+2 (A) Review
22 Sep 2010|29,059 views
Most of us don't need an all-wheel-drive, mountain-climbing, semi-amphibious, over-engineered beast for an off-roader. Or at least not in Singapore. Instead we need a vehicle that's simple, comfortable, safe, affordable, reliable and convenient. And, judging by the increasing number of Qashqais I see on the road these days, I believe a great many others are also sharing my views.
That being said, we need our little pleasures too. And to satisfy those demands, Nissan recently launched the Qashqai+2.
Exterior
The Qashqai +2 shares the same design DNA with the original Qashqai, but yet, it's subtly different from virtually every angle. Born to be superior, the Qashqai+2 is 211mm longer than the standard model, of which 135mm goes into an extended wheelbase. Also considering that the crossover is 36mm higher, the overall height of the Qashqai +2 is now 1,642mm.
That being said, we need our little pleasures too. And to satisfy those demands, Nissan recently launched the Qashqai+2.
Exterior
The Qashqai +2 shares the same design DNA with the original Qashqai, but yet, it's subtly different from virtually every angle. Born to be superior, the Qashqai+2 is 211mm longer than the standard model, of which 135mm goes into an extended wheelbase. Also considering that the crossover is 36mm higher, the overall height of the Qashqai +2 is now 1,642mm.
 |
In terms of styling, the front-end design is shared with Qashqai. The sharply-pressed curves on the bonnet, honeycomb grille and stretched headlamps combine to give the crossover an air of premium sophistication, presence and quality.
Around the back, little has changed aside from subtle aerodynamic tweaks and LED lights. That said, the puffed up arches, softly swaged hip line and a profile reminiscent of the marque's own Murano SUV, complemented by roof rails that comes standard, means the Qashqai +2 oozes a premium demeanour and promises acres of space within.
 |
Interior
Front seats are relatively firm and comfortable with clear visibility all round for the driver and passengers. Additionally, headroom is generous due to the fact that the increased height has assisted the front and middle row headroom to increase by 16mm and 10mm respectively. Controls are simple as well, making the driver feel genuinely connected to the car and more importantly to the road.
As mentioned before, the Qashqai+2 is now 211mm longer and 38mm taller than the standard model, while the wheelbase is 135mm greater. Although that might not sound like much, it means there's now enough room for the all-important second row of rear seats - an extra 23mm of knee-room.
Nissan's designers have also ensured the central chair can be dropped down to serve as an armrest. As a result, the seatback incorporates a pair of cup-holders and a storage box for MP3 players.
Aside from being the highlight of the crossover, the third seating tier is also the main difference between the standard model and the +2. However, looking at seats six and seven, it's hard to imagine anyone being comfortable back there for long.
Front seats are relatively firm and comfortable with clear visibility all round for the driver and passengers. Additionally, headroom is generous due to the fact that the increased height has assisted the front and middle row headroom to increase by 16mm and 10mm respectively. Controls are simple as well, making the driver feel genuinely connected to the car and more importantly to the road.
As mentioned before, the Qashqai+2 is now 211mm longer and 38mm taller than the standard model, while the wheelbase is 135mm greater. Although that might not sound like much, it means there's now enough room for the all-important second row of rear seats - an extra 23mm of knee-room.
Nissan's designers have also ensured the central chair can be dropped down to serve as an armrest. As a result, the seatback incorporates a pair of cup-holders and a storage box for MP3 players.
Aside from being the highlight of the crossover, the third seating tier is also the main difference between the standard model and the +2. However, looking at seats six and seven, it's hard to imagine anyone being comfortable back there for long.
Although the middle row tilts and slides forward to make getting to the third row easier, the opening is narrow and the sloping roofline and the almost complete absence of foot space add to the claustrophobic feel.
Although the seats are comfortable, think of the third row as the automotive equivalent of the naughty step - make the kids (up to four-years old) sit there as punishment.
But there's a good side to it. Look upon the Qashqai+2 as a five-seater with two (very occasional) extra seats and it starts to make more sense. The extra legroom in the middle row is a big improvement, and the seats can be slid back and forth to trade passenger space for more luggage room - that's a total of 450 litres of boot space with back seats folded.
Surprisingly, increased luggage capacity does not seem to have the slightest impact on the Qashqai +2's consistent comfort levels and dynamic abilities
Nonetheless, thumbs up for the all-new panoramic glass roof, which is by far the most dazzling feature inside the car. It adds a real sense of space and light into the interior and from the middle seats it gives a brilliant, near 180 degrees view of the heavens - perfect for a family outing on a clear Sunday morning.
Although the seats are comfortable, think of the third row as the automotive equivalent of the naughty step - make the kids (up to four-years old) sit there as punishment.
But there's a good side to it. Look upon the Qashqai+2 as a five-seater with two (very occasional) extra seats and it starts to make more sense. The extra legroom in the middle row is a big improvement, and the seats can be slid back and forth to trade passenger space for more luggage room - that's a total of 450 litres of boot space with back seats folded.
Surprisingly, increased luggage capacity does not seem to have the slightest impact on the Qashqai +2's consistent comfort levels and dynamic abilities
Nonetheless, thumbs up for the all-new panoramic glass roof, which is by far the most dazzling feature inside the car. It adds a real sense of space and light into the interior and from the middle seats it gives a brilliant, near 180 degrees view of the heavens - perfect for a family outing on a clear Sunday morning.
 |
Drivetrain
A big selling point for the +2 is the option of Four-Wheel-Drive (4WD), which massively improves grip during wet weather. The 4WD proves itself on the twisting parts of the long test route. Even with a power output of 138bhp, the car never struggles. Squeeze the throttle and the car goes without perceivable loss in poise, making it safe for the driver as well as the passengers.
However, the 2.0-litre engine tends to be a little noisy when in minor roads but softens once you're cruising on the expressway. But the good news is you do not need to rev it often. There is just enough usable torque for unhurried day-to-day commute. I reckon this is one of the Qashqai+2's strengths.
Given its stature and increased height, there's a fair amount of body roll through bends. However, the Qashqai+2 doesn't feel untidy because it has a decent grip. The responsive steering and smart handling also provide the driver with a feeling of stability at higher speeds. Comfort levels are high and it feels composed as one would expect from a practical family crossover.
All said, its most endearing traits are still its drivability and confidence.
A big selling point for the +2 is the option of Four-Wheel-Drive (4WD), which massively improves grip during wet weather. The 4WD proves itself on the twisting parts of the long test route. Even with a power output of 138bhp, the car never struggles. Squeeze the throttle and the car goes without perceivable loss in poise, making it safe for the driver as well as the passengers.
However, the 2.0-litre engine tends to be a little noisy when in minor roads but softens once you're cruising on the expressway. But the good news is you do not need to rev it often. There is just enough usable torque for unhurried day-to-day commute. I reckon this is one of the Qashqai+2's strengths.
Given its stature and increased height, there's a fair amount of body roll through bends. However, the Qashqai+2 doesn't feel untidy because it has a decent grip. The responsive steering and smart handling also provide the driver with a feeling of stability at higher speeds. Comfort levels are high and it feels composed as one would expect from a practical family crossover.
All said, its most endearing traits are still its drivability and confidence.
Conclusion
As the name suggests, it has two more seats than the standard Qashqai, but you get the same cosseting ride, impressive refinement and long list of standard equipment.
That said, the seats in the back can easily fold away to provide boot space. It's more like a glorified hatchback that offers great visibility and, for those with larger families, handy flexibility. At the price of $120,800 (as of 6 Aug 2010), the +2 is robust without being uncomfortable, it's not sluggish on the open road, and there's an option to toggle between 2WD and 4WD depending on the road conditions.
It certainly has a stance that sets it apart from the crossover crowd. And I reckon it's not something you tire of easily.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
As the name suggests, it has two more seats than the standard Qashqai, but you get the same cosseting ride, impressive refinement and long list of standard equipment.
That said, the seats in the back can easily fold away to provide boot space. It's more like a glorified hatchback that offers great visibility and, for those with larger families, handy flexibility. At the price of $120,800 (as of 6 Aug 2010), the +2 is robust without being uncomfortable, it's not sluggish on the open road, and there's an option to toggle between 2WD and 4WD depending on the road conditions.
It certainly has a stance that sets it apart from the crossover crowd. And I reckon it's not something you tire of easily.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Most of us don't need an all-wheel-drive, mountain-climbing, semi-amphibious, over-engineered beast for an off-roader. Or at least not in Singapore. Instead we need a vehicle that's simple, comfortable, safe, affordable, reliable and convenient. And, judging by the increasing number of Qashqais I see on the road these days, I believe a great many others are also sharing my views.
That being said, we need our little pleasures too. And to satisfy those demands, Nissan recently launched the Qashqai+2.
Exterior
The Qashqai +2 shares the same design DNA with the original Qashqai, but yet, it's subtly different from virtually every angle. Born to be superior, the Qashqai+2 is 211mm longer than the standard model, of which 135mm goes into an extended wheelbase. Also considering that the crossover is 36mm higher, the overall height of the Qashqai +2 is now 1,642mm.
That being said, we need our little pleasures too. And to satisfy those demands, Nissan recently launched the Qashqai+2.
Exterior
The Qashqai +2 shares the same design DNA with the original Qashqai, but yet, it's subtly different from virtually every angle. Born to be superior, the Qashqai+2 is 211mm longer than the standard model, of which 135mm goes into an extended wheelbase. Also considering that the crossover is 36mm higher, the overall height of the Qashqai +2 is now 1,642mm.
|
In terms of styling, the front-end design is shared with Qashqai. The sharply-pressed curves on the bonnet, honeycomb grille and stretched headlamps combine to give the crossover an air of premium sophistication, presence and quality.
Around the back, little has changed aside from subtle aerodynamic tweaks and LED lights. That said, the puffed up arches, softly swaged hip line and a profile reminiscent of the marque's own Murano SUV, complemented by roof rails that comes standard, means the Qashqai +2 oozes a premium demeanour and promises acres of space within.
|
Interior
Front seats are relatively firm and comfortable with clear visibility all round for the driver and passengers. Additionally, headroom is generous due to the fact that the increased height has assisted the front and middle row headroom to increase by 16mm and 10mm respectively. Controls are simple as well, making the driver feel genuinely connected to the car and more importantly to the road.
As mentioned before, the Qashqai+2 is now 211mm longer and 38mm taller than the standard model, while the wheelbase is 135mm greater. Although that might not sound like much, it means there's now enough room for the all-important second row of rear seats - an extra 23mm of knee-room.
Nissan's designers have also ensured the central chair can be dropped down to serve as an armrest. As a result, the seatback incorporates a pair of cup-holders and a storage box for MP3 players.
Aside from being the highlight of the crossover, the third seating tier is also the main difference between the standard model and the +2. However, looking at seats six and seven, it's hard to imagine anyone being comfortable back there for long.
Front seats are relatively firm and comfortable with clear visibility all round for the driver and passengers. Additionally, headroom is generous due to the fact that the increased height has assisted the front and middle row headroom to increase by 16mm and 10mm respectively. Controls are simple as well, making the driver feel genuinely connected to the car and more importantly to the road.
As mentioned before, the Qashqai+2 is now 211mm longer and 38mm taller than the standard model, while the wheelbase is 135mm greater. Although that might not sound like much, it means there's now enough room for the all-important second row of rear seats - an extra 23mm of knee-room.
Nissan's designers have also ensured the central chair can be dropped down to serve as an armrest. As a result, the seatback incorporates a pair of cup-holders and a storage box for MP3 players.
Aside from being the highlight of the crossover, the third seating tier is also the main difference between the standard model and the +2. However, looking at seats six and seven, it's hard to imagine anyone being comfortable back there for long.
Although the middle row tilts and slides forward to make getting to the third row easier, the opening is narrow and the sloping roofline and the almost complete absence of foot space add to the claustrophobic feel.
Although the seats are comfortable, think of the third row as the automotive equivalent of the naughty step - make the kids (up to four-years old) sit there as punishment.
But there's a good side to it. Look upon the Qashqai+2 as a five-seater with two (very occasional) extra seats and it starts to make more sense. The extra legroom in the middle row is a big improvement, and the seats can be slid back and forth to trade passenger space for more luggage room - that's a total of 450 litres of boot space with back seats folded.
Surprisingly, increased luggage capacity does not seem to have the slightest impact on the Qashqai +2's consistent comfort levels and dynamic abilities
Nonetheless, thumbs up for the all-new panoramic glass roof, which is by far the most dazzling feature inside the car. It adds a real sense of space and light into the interior and from the middle seats it gives a brilliant, near 180 degrees view of the heavens - perfect for a family outing on a clear Sunday morning.
Although the seats are comfortable, think of the third row as the automotive equivalent of the naughty step - make the kids (up to four-years old) sit there as punishment.
But there's a good side to it. Look upon the Qashqai+2 as a five-seater with two (very occasional) extra seats and it starts to make more sense. The extra legroom in the middle row is a big improvement, and the seats can be slid back and forth to trade passenger space for more luggage room - that's a total of 450 litres of boot space with back seats folded.
Surprisingly, increased luggage capacity does not seem to have the slightest impact on the Qashqai +2's consistent comfort levels and dynamic abilities
Nonetheless, thumbs up for the all-new panoramic glass roof, which is by far the most dazzling feature inside the car. It adds a real sense of space and light into the interior and from the middle seats it gives a brilliant, near 180 degrees view of the heavens - perfect for a family outing on a clear Sunday morning.
|
Drivetrain
A big selling point for the +2 is the option of Four-Wheel-Drive (4WD), which massively improves grip during wet weather. The 4WD proves itself on the twisting parts of the long test route. Even with a power output of 138bhp, the car never struggles. Squeeze the throttle and the car goes without perceivable loss in poise, making it safe for the driver as well as the passengers.
However, the 2.0-litre engine tends to be a little noisy when in minor roads but softens once you're cruising on the expressway. But the good news is you do not need to rev it often. There is just enough usable torque for unhurried day-to-day commute. I reckon this is one of the Qashqai+2's strengths.
Given its stature and increased height, there's a fair amount of body roll through bends. However, the Qashqai+2 doesn't feel untidy because it has a decent grip. The responsive steering and smart handling also provide the driver with a feeling of stability at higher speeds. Comfort levels are high and it feels composed as one would expect from a practical family crossover.
All said, its most endearing traits are still its drivability and confidence.
A big selling point for the +2 is the option of Four-Wheel-Drive (4WD), which massively improves grip during wet weather. The 4WD proves itself on the twisting parts of the long test route. Even with a power output of 138bhp, the car never struggles. Squeeze the throttle and the car goes without perceivable loss in poise, making it safe for the driver as well as the passengers.
However, the 2.0-litre engine tends to be a little noisy when in minor roads but softens once you're cruising on the expressway. But the good news is you do not need to rev it often. There is just enough usable torque for unhurried day-to-day commute. I reckon this is one of the Qashqai+2's strengths.
Given its stature and increased height, there's a fair amount of body roll through bends. However, the Qashqai+2 doesn't feel untidy because it has a decent grip. The responsive steering and smart handling also provide the driver with a feeling of stability at higher speeds. Comfort levels are high and it feels composed as one would expect from a practical family crossover.
All said, its most endearing traits are still its drivability and confidence.
Conclusion
As the name suggests, it has two more seats than the standard Qashqai, but you get the same cosseting ride, impressive refinement and long list of standard equipment.
That said, the seats in the back can easily fold away to provide boot space. It's more like a glorified hatchback that offers great visibility and, for those with larger families, handy flexibility. At the price of $120,800 (as of 6 Aug 2010), the +2 is robust without being uncomfortable, it's not sluggish on the open road, and there's an option to toggle between 2WD and 4WD depending on the road conditions.
It certainly has a stance that sets it apart from the crossover crowd. And I reckon it's not something you tire of easily.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
As the name suggests, it has two more seats than the standard Qashqai, but you get the same cosseting ride, impressive refinement and long list of standard equipment.
That said, the seats in the back can easily fold away to provide boot space. It's more like a glorified hatchback that offers great visibility and, for those with larger families, handy flexibility. At the price of $120,800 (as of 6 Aug 2010), the +2 is robust without being uncomfortable, it's not sluggish on the open road, and there's an option to toggle between 2WD and 4WD depending on the road conditions.
It certainly has a stance that sets it apart from the crossover crowd. And I reckon it's not something you tire of easily.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Car Information
Nissan Qashqai +2 2.0 (A)
CAT B|Petrol|12.2km/L
Horsepower
103kW (138 bhp)
Torque
196 Nm
Acceleration
-
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Nissan Qashqai +2
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