Nissan boosts Qashqai efficiency with new hybrid e-Power engine

Nissan has introduced a new powertrain for its best-selling Qashqai crossover, which promises to improve fuel efficiency and deliver the driving experience of an electric model.

The new e-Power variant is launched alongside a string of updates for the rest of the Qashqai range.

Nissan is also opening order books for its new fully electric Ariya SUV, next week.

Pricing for the popular crossover has increased, with the base model now starting at £26,045. The e-Power costs from £32,950.

The Qashqai remains available with a choice of two petrol engines, both based around the same 1.3-litre unit. It’s offered with 140PS or 158PS, with either a manual or automatic gearbox. All-wheel-drive is optionally available in conjunction with the more powerful engine.

A hybrid powertrain, known as e-Power has also joined the Qashqai line-up. It utilises a new 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine but, unlike in regular hybrids, the petrol-powered unit is only used to generate electricity. A 190PS electric motor is used to provide drive to the wheels.

The Qashqai e-Power can acheive 53mpg and emits 119g/km of CO2. The new powertrain can be ordered from July 5, with first deliveries expected in September.

Visual changes for the 2022 Qashqai include the fitment of Nissan’s new logo to the front and back of the vehicle, wheel caps and the centre of the steering wheel.

The rear bumper changes in colour, going from light grey to a darker shade, while LED front fog lights are now standard on top-of-the-range Tekna+ models.

Inside, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen is fitted to N-Connecta versions and above – an increase in size of 3.3 inches over the current version.

The Glass Roof Pack, an optional extra consisting of a glass roof and roof rails and priced at £650, is also reintroduced to the line-up.

Enhancements to the Nissan Connect Services include: a digital owner’s manual; customer identification with i-Key; voice in-car control; voice personal assistant (Alexa) and parking information.

Nissan  showcased the new Qashqai model to prospective buyers at VIP preview events hosted by its dealer network, last year.

Selected customers were invited to see the car ahead of its official on sale date last the summer.