2023 – 2024 Best SUV Find out which SUV is the best for 2022, 2023, and 2024. Here you can find professional reviews and rankings of all upcoming crossover and SUV cars.
The new generation of Nissan’s super-popular small crossover was presented last year and it’s been on sale for a while. So, the 2023 Nissan Qashqai is coming to represent the second production year of the new generation, at least in markets like Europe. On the other hand, the new Qashqai is yet to debut in Australia and that is finally happening these days. Still, the Australian version shouldn’t bring any significant difference compared to the European model, except for a little bit different organization of grades and equipment groups.
In any case, you may count on a pretty fresh design that was introduced last year, with numerous improvements over the previous generation. The new model is strong in many fields, particularly when it comes to the interior quality and the amount of standard and available equipment. We also like the new engine, while the hybrid version is expected to debut in Australia in the near future as well.
2023 Nissan Qashqai Design
Considering that we are talking about a pretty fresh model, the 2023 Nissan Qashqai won’t bring any bigger surprises. It will continue with the same design, based on the latest version of the company’s familiar CMF platform. Compared to the previous generation, the new model looks more aggressive, with the implementation of the brand’s latest design language. The most prominent are new headlights, with a sharper design, as well as the new iteration of the well-known V-Motion grille. Therefore, we don’t expect any notable change for the second production year.
The same thing is to the mechanical aspect of the vehicle. The platform update has brought notable improvements in terms of steering and ride quality in general. Still, the new model remains more focused on comfort than athleticism. If you’re up for something sportier, there are models like the Mazda CX-30, which offers a spirited ride and a much higher level of athleticism.
Interior
As we are talking about the second production year, there’s no doubt that the cabin design, which is certainly one of Qashqai’s strongest points. The new cabin looks very nice, with fine materials and great overall build quality. Furthermore, the new generation is loaded with tech goodies that make everything look even more upscale.
The new generation features slightly bigger exterior dimensions, which reflects in the passenger space as well. The front row is generous with space and accommodates taller passengers with ease. Also, Nissan traditionally makes some of the best seats in the class. The second row is also quite spacious for the segment and can accommodate two adults in a very nice fashion.
2023 Nissan Qashqai Engines
The powertrain lineup will also remain the same. The old naturally-aspirated petrol engine has been replaced with the new, 1.3-liter turbocharged unit, which offers more power and torque. This engine is rated at 150 horsepower (110kW) and 250Nm of torque, which seems enough for decent driving dynamics and overall performance. However, it comes with a CVT, which kills a little bit of driving experience.
Also, the new generation comes with the company’s new hybrid system, based on the new e-Power technology. This system consists of a 1.5-liter turbo three-cylinder engine, which puts out 116kW. However, it doesn’t send power to the wheels but rather acts as a power generator. On the other hand, the wheels are powered by an electric motor that puts out 139kW (190hp), which provides pretty good driving dynamics.
2023 Nissan Qashqai Debuts in Australia
As we already mentioned, the new generation is finally coming Down Under. The new model is set for its debut and should hit showrooms in a matter of days. From what we know, the Australian model will be offered in four grades: ST, ST+, ST-L and Ti. =
The base ST model will cost around A$34.000 and it will come standard with goodies like 17-inch alloy wheels, proximity keyless entry, an 8-inch infotainment screen, a 7-inch instrument display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a six-speaker audio system, driver’s lumbar adjust, cloth upholstery, voice controls and more.
The ST+ adds goodies like 18-inch wheels, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, satellite navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, a 360-degree camera, rain-sensing wipers etc. This version will cost slightly under A$38.000.
The ST-L will feature starting price of around A$42.000 and you may count on upgrades like 19-inch wheels, roof rails adaptive headlights, leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel, leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging and more.
Finally, there is the range-topping Ti model, with a price tag of A$47.500. This model brings upgrades like a 12.3 digital instrument cluster, 10.8-inch head-up display, panoramic glass roof, remote powered tailgate, power front seats with massage, upgraded leather trim, two-tone exterior paint, 10-speaker Bose audio system, driver memory settings etc.
