NISSAN HAS FOLLOWED its release of a mid-spec Pathfinder by doing the same for its smaller sibling, the Qashqai. Along with Nissan’s recently announced upgrade to a five-year warranty it is a sure thing that the little SUV will feature on even more shopping lists.
The new mid-spec models get the ST+ label and sit between the entry level ST and higher-spec ST-L. As the name implies, the ST+ gets all the features of the ST with additional technologies.
The new Nissan Qashqai ST+ comes with a seven-inch touchscreen with digital radio, satellite navigation with traffic alert, the 360 degree Intelligent Around-View Monitor with moving object detection, power-fold and heated door mirrors, and privacy glass – all as standard equipment.
“The Nissan Qashqai is one of the top choices for small SUV buyers, expanding the range will ensure it remains on the new car shopping list,” said Nissan Australia managing director Stephen Lester.
“Reducing the gap between the Qashqai ST and ST-L will please many of our buyers who wanted more than what we offered on the entry grade, but weren’t in the market for a higher-spec vehicle.”
“I think the product team has created a very strong mid-spec offering, strengthening the Nissan Qashqai range in the process.”
The new addition means the Nissan Qashqai, like the larger Pathfinder, is now available in four grades including the entry ST, new ST+, the mid-spec ST-L and the range-topping Ti.
All grades use the same 2.0 litre engine with 106kW of power and 200Nm of torque, fitted with an Xtronic continuously variable transmission. The entry grade model only is available with a 6-speed manual option.
Fuel economy numbers starts from 6.9L/100km making it an economical proposition. While the Qashqai is aimed at “active singles, couples without children or those who are about to start their family”, seniordriveraus would suggest it is equally well-suited to those over 50 and empty-nesters.
With 430 litres of rear cargo capacity – one of the best in its class – increasing to 1,598 litres with the rear seats down, there’s plenty of luggage space in a vehicle that is almost the ideal size for both urban and country use. The Nissan Qashqai ST+ features 17-inch alloy wheels, halogen headlights and LED daytime running lights.
The new ST+ maintains all the safety features of the Nissan Qashqai ST, including an electric park brake with auto hold, push button engine start, cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a leather-accented steering wheel.
From a safety perspective Nissan Qashqai ST+ includes six airbags and front and rear sensors. It also has two second row ISOFIX points (and reasonable access if you need to regularly install and remove child seats), plus an assortment of Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies including Intelligent Emergency Braking with Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and the Intelligent Around-View Monitor with Moving Object Detection.
On sale now, the Nissan Qashqai ST+ is priced from $30,790 (plus ORC) and available in seven colours. Metallic paint costs an additional $595.
seniordriveraus will bring you a more detailed review after we spend some time in the vehicle, including full specifications and everything the over-50 driver needs to know
Pricing (MSRP)
Nissan QASHQAI ST 6MT $27,490
Nissan QASHQAI ST CVT $29,490
Nissan QASHQAI ST+ CVT $30,790
Nissan QASHQAI ST-L CVT $33,290
Nissan QASHQAI Ti CVT $37,990