Qashqai
Set to arrive in the United Kingdom later this month, the Sunderland-built Qashqai has become the first Nissan model to obtain the blown four-cylinder motor co-developed with the three-pointed, with the new mill replacing both the existing 1.2 and 1.6-litre turbo motors and in two states of tune; 103kW/240Nm and 118kW/260Nm.
While drive is again send to the front wheels regardless of which engine, the lower output model comes equipped only with a six-speed manual gearbox while the latter offers a seven-speed dual-clutch as an option, which also nets a 10Nm torque hike to 270Nm.
In the UK, pricing for the entry-level 103kW Visia kicks-off at £19 595 (R364 466) while the top-spec 118kW Tekna manual retails from £28 595 (R531 866). At present, it remains unknown as to whether the new engine, also due to power the next Renault Clio, would be offered in local Qashaqi models.
Duster
Recently launched in South Africa, the new Duster has made its unveiling at the Paris Motor Show with not only the aforementioned engine, but also an updated infotainment system known MediaNav Evolution.
Still displayed on a seven-inch touchscreen display, the new system now gets Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as connectivity support for WhatsApp, Waze and Spotify. Available in Europe by the end of 2018, the upgrade from the current MediaNav system will not infringe on the Duster’s sticker price.
As mentioned though, the Duster’s newest addition comes up front where the old 1.2-litre turbo-petrol used until now makes way for the bigger 1.3, again in two states of tune; 96kW/240Nm and 110kW/240Nm making it the most powerful production Dacia ever made.
For now, drive is routed to the front wheels only likely via a six-speed manual gearbox, although four-wheel drive will become available from next year. Like the Qashqai though, the 1.3 remains a no-no for South Africa for now.
