Extra seats, extra appeal for Qashqai+2

Oct 12 2009 Peter Hayward

NISSAN'S Qashqai has impressed me in all of the different models I have driven but the latest plus 2 version has extended its capabilities.

Two small seats fold easily up out of a flat boot floor but they have very little foot room even for children, so they're only usable over fairly short journeys.

In every other way, like most recent Nissans, it is very accomplished. I drove the two wheel drive 1.5 DCi which has a decent power band from about 1800-3500 revs.

The ride is excellent over all surfaces and it also has good handling, feeling safe and sure through the corners, with very good grip.

It's reasonably quick and the Renault-sourced diesel turbo is quiet and smooth. There is good acceleration in fourth and a fair amount in fifth. Even sixth has enough urge for lane changing on the motorway.

It is very economical with a range of over 500 miles on a tankful. I got an average in real driving of 41.5mpg, which although it is much less than the "official" Government figure of 49mpg is still respectable.

Interior

The range topper comes with trip computer, roller blind luggage cover, cruise control with buttons on the wheel, plus the usual electric pack and climate control.

A height adjustable seat helps make all drivers comfortable, but the seat shape is a little odd and takes some getting used to.

FAST FACTS

Nissan Qashqai+2 1.5DCi Tekna

Price: £21,600

Mechanical: 105bhp,1461cc, 4 cylinder diesel engine driving the front wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Max speed: 106mph

0-62mph: 13.3 seconds

Combined mpg: 49

Insurance group: 6

CO2 emissions: 149g/km

BIK rating: 20%

Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles

Marks: 9/10

Main rival: Citroen Picasso