Nissan has sold 170,000 Nissan Qashqais in Europe since its launch in March last year, so the Japanese company will be hoping that this new seven-seat version proves just as much of a hit.
Named the Qashqai+2, the new car has two extra seats, which cause it to grow by 211mm in length, taking it to 4526mm overall. It’s taller, too, by 38mm; this is to ensure space for third-row passengers. The Qashqai’s wheelbase has also been extended by 135mm to 2765mm.The interior sees a number of new features to go with the subtly altered looks and extra seats. The panoramic glass sunroof - an option on the standard Qashqai – is standard on this larger model, plus a sliding middle-seat layout gets a more flexible 20/40/20 split than the previous 60/40.
The two seats that make up the third row are designed for children or as “occasional seats for small adults up to 1.6m tall” according to Nissan; they can be adjusted to seven different positions or folded flat into the boot floor.With both seats folded the Qashqai+2 has 500 litres of boot space - an additional 90 litres over the five-seat model – plus a lower load height for easy access.
The entire engine range from the Qashqai will be available on the seven-seat model, including 113bhp, 1.6-litre and 138bhp, 2.0-litre petrol engines, plus the 104bhp, 1.5-litre and 148bhp, 2.0-litre diesel models.
The option of two or four-wheel drive transmissions will also be available, as on the standard model. Prices of the Qashqai+2 will be announced at the London motor show this June, but it’s fair to expect a premium of around £1000 over the five-seat equivalent.
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