Powerful advances for model
Nissan has confirmed the pricing and specifications for its model-year 2026 Qashqai, which is due to arrive in New Zealand in April.
The SUV features the brand’s most advanced e-Power technology and key powertrain components made in Australia.
The all-new e-Power line-up boasts a five-in-one powertrain with high-pressure cast aluminium components manufactured at Nissan Casting Australia Plant in Victoria.
This results in a 23 per cent better WLTP fuel-economy rate of 4.1l/100km versus the 2025 model’s 5.3l/100km.
In addition, there’s a 25 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from 124g/km to 92.7g/km and a 10kW boost in sport mode for more responsive performance.
As for pricing, the new ST-L e-Power entry-grade model is priced from $53,990 plus on-road costs. The Ti starts at $56,990, the Ti-L at $62,990 and N-Design at $62,990, which is a new-launch special edition.
Jenni Martin, New Zealand’s country manager for the marque, says: “The new Qashqai delivers the real-world efficiency of e-Power to consumers in a right-sized package that’s further optimised across multiple fronts.”
Nissan’s electrified system delivers an EV-like driving experience without the need to plug in. Unlike traditional hybrids, 100 per cent of power comes from an electric motor while the 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine generates electricity on demand.
In 100 per cent electric-motor drive, the wheels are only powered by the electric motor and regenerative braking converts kinetic energy back into electricity.
The Qashqai’s technology overhaul begins from the entry ST-L grade, now fitted with a 12.3-inch central touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
There’s also the enhanced digital around view monitor, which is standard across all grades. It includes 3D eight-point around view. This enables the driver to virtually rotate the car and select from different camera angles for better parking and manoeuvring.
Then the skeleton bonnet view provides visibility of obstacles at wheel and ground level, which is “ideal for navigating narrow spaces when precise positioning is essential”.
And T-junction view provides a wide-angle forward view that increases visibility at intersections with poor sightlines or blocked visibility.
The Ti grade and above also come with enhanced ProPILOT+ driver assistance with the ability to detect cars in adjacent lanes, updated lane-keeping assist and improved display graphics.
The Qashqai’s front grille has been updated and has dozens of three-dimensional comma-shaped elements in high-gloss black paint between the lip of the bonnet and number-plate holder.
Below the main lens, the daytime running lights consist of five small lenses that are the same shape as the “commas” of the grille.
The interior has been enhanced to deliver an “upscale ambience”, including patterned materials on the centre console around the gear selector, and the decoration insert between the upper dashboard and glovebox.
For upper grades, there’s synthetic suede on the dashboard, door inserts, door armrests and a centre storage console lid.
