Nissan Qashqai 158 i-4×4

Not so long ago, I tried out the new Nissan Qashqai for you in its 158 horsepower version. Since then, a new i-4×4 version has been added to the small range of the brand's bestseller. So here is a little additional test right away !

Externally, nothing will be able to differentiate a traction version of this smart-4×4 Qashqai . Here, we only benefit from a different paint, Gray Clay, as well as 18-inch rims which I will talk about a little later. So let’s quickly get on board…

Inside, the recipe is identical: head-up display, digital instrumentation, large 9-inch touch screen and a pretty colored dashboard. The Tekna finish of this model only makes us lose the leather upholstery, and unfortunately no more massage on the program. Otherwise, the most picky among you will surely have noticed the appearance of a wheel just behind the gear lever. The classic Standard/Eco/Sport modes that were available via a small button are now joined by Snow and Offroad modes. This is the only difference to note when settling in it.

In the previous test, I explained to you how amazed I was by the overall comfort of the Japanese crossover, both by the excellent suspension work and by the soundproofing. But we could also cite its good general approval and its very good course keeping when it is heckled a little. Well there, it's all the same again, or almost. The 4-cylinder 158 horsepower may lack a bit of pep, in question the overweight of 82 kg (1532 against 1450 kg according to the technical sheet). In figures, it actually displays a 0 to 100 km / h of 9.9 s at 100 km / h (against 9.2 s). However in all honesty, it does not really feel in use, especially during urban use. It remains very present when you ask it and becomes wise again when you want it. The Xtronic continuously variable box has a lot to do with this feeling. By simulating 7 real reports, it is always very pleasant on a daily basis. To be complete, I still regret the lack of information in the steering, which probably goes hand in hand with a philosophy that is more comfort-oriented than dynamic.  

These few hundred km at its controls, especially on the motorway, will therefore have made it possible to truly confirm its qualities in terms of comfort. We enjoy a very good filtration of the bitumen and the exemplary soundproofing allows you to feel calm. Soothed. In addition, the 18-inch rims, obviously less flashy than the 20-inch of the other model, will further establish the flying carpet feeling that the SUV offers. Driving it, as well as carefully observing the display of the distribution, I clearly notice that the 4×4 will not be of much use to you in the majority of situations. On the contrary, if you regularly cross a slippery road, the choice will be more to consider. This configuration is for example very popular in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, and the manufacturer intends to continue this momentum. In the event of skidding, the distribution of torque between the two axles is ensured by a viscous coupling which provides additional traction in just 0.2 seconds. This system therefore makes it possible to obtain more grip, correctly distributed, to get out of a delicate situation without difficulty. Finally even if I certainly don't need to specify it, naturally don't expect a franchisor, it doesn't venture too far off the beaten track. The few crossroads that you can cross will still not be too much of a hindrance, thanks to its ground clearance of 18 cm. It's better on average by 5 cm than a sedan. Torque distribution between the two axles is ensured by a viscous coupling which provides additional traction in just 0.2 seconds. This system therefore makes it possible to obtain more grip, correctly distributed, to get out of a delicate situation without difficulty. Finally even if I certainly don't need to specify it, naturally don't expect a franchisor, it doesn't venture too far off the beaten track. The few crossroads that you can cross will still not be too much of a hindrance, thanks to its ground clearance of 18 cm. It's better on average by 5 cm than a sedan. Torque distribution between the two axles is ensured by a viscous coupling which provides additional traction in just 0.2 seconds. This system therefore makes it possible to obtain more grip, correctly distributed, to get out of a delicate situation without difficulty. Finally even if I certainly don't need to specify it, naturally don't expect a franchisor, it doesn't venture too far off the beaten track. The few crossroads that you can cross will still not be too much of a hindrance, thanks to its ground clearance of 18 cm. It's better on average by 5 cm than a sedan. Finally even if I certainly don't need to specify it, naturally don't expect a franchisor, it doesn't venture too far off the beaten track. The few crossroads that you can cross will still not be too much of a hindrance, thanks to its ground clearance of 18 cm. It's better on average by 5 cm than a sedan. Finally, even if I certainly don't need to specify it, naturally don't expect a franchisor, it doesn't venture too far off the beaten track. The few cross roads that you can cross will still not be too much of a hindrance, thanks to its ground clearance of 18 cm. It's better on average by 5 cm than a sedan.

Unfortunately like my other Qashqai, it is not an example of sobriety. Despite there also a Mild Hybrid technology, provided by a 12 V alternator-starter, it will consume on average 0.5/1 liter more per 100 km. While the approval value promises a mixed consumption of 7 l/100, in real life it is easier to reach 8 l/100. Then by doing a little crazy crazy, it easily rises to 9.5 l/100 or even 10 l/100 during a hilly course.

While the Nissan Qashqai 2022 starts at €30,190 in the Visia Mild Hybrid 140ch BVM finish, it will cost at least €39,540 for this Mild Hybrid 158ch Xtronic i-4×4 engine. It is indeed only available from the N-Connecta finish which directly offers 360° vision, tinted rear windows or the NissanConnect system with the 9-inch screen. My test copy is in Tekna finish (ProPILOT, digital instrumentation, electric tailgate, head-up display, etc.), from €41,990. Adding the paint at €950 and the Winter Pack (heated seats and steering wheel, etc.) at €750 gives a total of €43,590. Excluding malus of €1,504 in 2022.

As I told you in the title, this new Nissan Qashqai i-4×4 is intended for a well-targeted clientele. If you do not have a real use for it, opting for the front transmission will be much more judicious. Otherwise in practice, it is still just as pleasant to drive. Offering a sometimes vigorous, sometimes gentle character, it shows great suppleness; combined with very safe road holding.

Nissan QASHQAI 4×4 158 XTRONIC 2021 technical data sheet:
Power: 158 hp at 5,500 rpm
Torque: 270 Nm at 1,800 rpm
0 to 100 km/h: 9.9 seconds
Maximum speed: 198 km/h
Curb weight weight: 1450 kg
Length: 4430 mm
Width: 1838 mm
Height: 1635 mm
Wheelbase: 2670 mm
Fuel tank: 55 Liters Boot: 504 Liters Prices: from €30,190 (Nissan Qashqai third generation)