Nissan Qashqai: Now also with the Google operating system

Nissan Qashqai is a good example of success for the Japanese. Now it has received a comprehensive facelift – and that also includes the operating system.

The current Nissan Qashqai has been around for about three and a half years now. In the normal cycle of a car’s life, the successful model, which had sold a good 350,000 units to date, was ripe for a model modification.

But car manufacturers did not stop at cosmetic modifications. They gave the Qashqai a new and fresh look. At the same time, we updated the infotainment, assistance systems and other electronic assistants.

Important design on the radiator grille

Visually, the modification can be seen more clearly in the radiator grille. It now features a large number of three-dimensional comma-shaped components painted in high-gloss black and modeled after the scale of an ancient Japanese tank.

It looks military, but it’s definitely exciting to watch. Especially in the new N-Design version, in which the triangles under the newly arranged lights are decorated with hot foil stripes in satin chrome. The comma pattern continues in the lower daytime running lights. The upper one is also a turn signal and, depending on the model, it is equipped with continuous cornering lights. The comma can also be found in the transparent rear lights in the form of four elements that appear to float in a very intense “red”. There are also new wheels ranging up to 20 inches and three new colors (Pearl White, Pearl Black and Deep Ocean).

Good equipment installed in the interior

In the best versions, the interior designers use Alcantara and new materials, for example for the center console, and the seat covers should feel more quality. And with ambient lighting from the N-Connecta and N-Design equipment lines onwards, the atmosphere in the Qashqai can be adjusted to suit the mood of the passengers.

The redesigned Around View Monitor now has a 3D function that provides views of the vehicle from eight camera perspectives, from the front, rear, side and corner. In addition, the “invisible hood” allows you to look directly under the Qashqai from the steering wheel, for example to avoid damaging the rims when parking on the curb. And the 200-degree wide-angle view makes it possible to safely navigate even confusing exits or intersections.

According to Nissan, almost all safety aids have been improved. So that they don’t hit too often and warn against the wishes of the occupants, Nissan has installed a Special Driver Assistance Mode for the first time. After starting, two clicks on the menu button are enough to activate the previously programmed monitoring level.

Now the operating system from Google

An important step is the integration of the full Google operating system in the navigation system, voice control and access to relevant applications. The windows can be closed and the car locked using a smartphone. Owners are also alerted if the vehicle has been hit or towed.

And the car? Nissan seems to have needed no action in this area; The Qashqai will continue to be offered with a 190 hp e-Power combination with a gasoline engine as the power generator and an electric motor as the driver, as well as a smaller hybrid with 140 and 158 hp. The new Qashqai will go on sale in June 2024. Nissan has yet to comment on pricing; (SP-X)