Next-gen Nissan Qashqai leak reveals 2014 launch, new turbo engine
Images and details of Nissan’s next Qashqai have surfaced ahead of its 2014 debut, confirming a downsized turbo petrol engine and a design influenced by the Hi-Cross concept.
Leaked images and details have given an early look at the next-generation Nissan Qashqai, due to launch in 2014. The new model draws heavily from the Hi-Cross concept shown at the Geneva Motor Show, with sharper styling and updated technology. Nissan is keeping official information under wraps for now, but the leaked material confirms several key changes for the UK’s best-selling crossover.
Sharper design, same footprint
The next Qashqai’s silhouette remains close to the outgoing car, with a length of 4,330mm and a maximum boot space of 860 litres with the rear seats folded. Nissan’s design team has instead focused on detail: slimmer headlights, a more pronounced grille and sculpted flanks all borrow from the Hi-Cross concept. The intention is to keep the Qashqai familiar to existing owners while pushing quality and perceived value higher.
According to Nissan executive vice president Andy Palmer, the new Qashqai is the first model to achieve a six on the company’s internal scale for overall quality and fit and finish. This points to a push upmarket in materials and assembly, aiming to compete with newer rivals in the segment.
Engine downsizing and emissions focus
The most notable technical change is the replacement of the current 1.6-litre petrol engine with a downsized 1.2-litre turbocharged unit. The new engine produces 113bhp and 190Nm of torque, with claimed fuel economy of over 50mpg and CO2 emissions below 120g/km. This move is in line with wider industry trends, as manufacturers seek to meet stricter emissions targets without sacrificing performance.
For diesel buyers, the 1.6 dCi will remain the main option, offering 128bhp, a claimed 60mpg and just 105g/km of CO2. These figures are competitive with the latest offerings from rival crossovers, and should appeal to fleet and private buyers alike.
Model reveal and production plans
Nissan is expected to preview the next Qashqai with a concept at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, ahead of the full production version’s launch later in 2014. The Sunderland plant in the UK is likely to remain the primary manufacturing site, supporting thousands of jobs and maintaining Nissan’s strong presence in the British car industry. For more on Nissan's UK operations, see Nissan invests £26.5m in Sunderland battery plant to secure UK EV supply.
The Qashqai’s continued success is crucial for Nissan in Europe, where the crossover segment is growing rapidly. The new model’s combination of familiar dimensions, improved efficiency and upgraded interior aims to keep it ahead of rivals such as the Dacia Duster and Mitsubishi ASX. For developments in the segment, see New Dacia Duster to Launch in 2016 with Seven Seats and 1.6 dCi Diesel.
