Nissan revealed its new compact crossover for the European market, the 2007 Nissan Qashqai, ahead of its debut at the Paris Motor Show later this month. Inspired by the concept car of the same name, which premiered at the 2004 Geneva Motor Show, the Qashqai will enter Nissan into the Europe’s rapidly expanding compact crossover segement. In addition to European sales, the 2007 Nissan Qashqai will also be exported to Japan - named Dualis, and to the Middle East and additional overseas markets.
Clearly, the design is insipired by Nissan’s Murano, especially in the distinctive shoulder line which rises at the rear. The Qashqai crossover blends passenger car attributes with those of a 4×4. Nissan is targeting the Qashqai at those car-buyers who want a little more size and a little more style than what is offered by a traditional C-segment car, but who aren’t looking for the larger, more aggressive styling of a traditional compact SUVs.
Four engine options will be available - two diesel and two gasoline offerings. The 1.6-litre gas engine offers 115 hp and 160Nm or torque, while the 2.0-litre produces 140 horsepower and 200Nm. The diesel engine options - 1.5- and 2.0-litre - provide 106 and 150 hp, respectively and 240 and 320Nm of torque. Gearbox choices will include a five- and six-speed manual, a new six-speed automatic and a CVT. Both 2.0-litre engine options can be specified with Nissan’s all-wheel-drive system.
While the Qashqai would appear to be a capable competitor to the Toyota RAV-4 and new Honda CR-V, among others in the States, it is not expected to be coming to the States. Sales are scheduled to start in February 2007.
Well i guess the most difficult part is to pronounce -
Q A S H Q A I .....
So what u guys think ... I think its more like the Murano.