Sometimes you drive a new vehicle and from the very start it just impresses.
Nissan’s small Qashqai SUV did this for me – just a great allrounder – I tested
the mid-spec ST-L, all models front wheel drive powered by a 1.3-litre turbo four-
cylinder petrol engine linked to a CVT automatic, the drive experience a good one
with minimal slip through the continuously variable automatic generally offering a
nice blend of power and torque with three available drive modes– I managed
6.5L/100km with mainly around town motoring, but it does need 95 grade
premium fuel. Importantly, the Nissan Qashqai feels light and nimble on road –
Nissan have stripped a lot of weight out of this latest model, around 60 kilos,
using many aluminium body panels yet with advanced stamping and welding
techniques it has a 48 percent increase in structural rigidity. It feels so on road
with excellent steering response, a somewhat effortless SUV to drive with 250Nm
of torque from as low as 1600 revs. The ST-L a nice choice for a small family
however at $45,900 drive-away not the most affordable small SUV but its quality,
well equipped and nicely packaged apart from the lack of a rear power door, just
so handy when shopping. I’m David Berthon

Sometimes you drive a new vehicle and from the very start it just impresses. Nissan’s small Qashqai SUV did this for me – just a great allrounder – I tested the mid-spec ST-L, all models front wheel drive powered by a 1.3-litre turbo four- cylinder petrol engine linked to a CVT automatic, the drive experience a good one with minimal slip through the continuously variable automatic generally offering a nice blend of power and torque with three available drive modes– I managed 6.5L/100km with mainly around town motoring, but it does need 95 grade premium fuel. Importantly, the Nissan Qashqai feels light and nimble on road – Nissan have stripped a lot of weight out of this latest model, around 60 kilos, using many aluminium body panels yet with advanced stamping and welding techniques it has a 48 percent increase in structural rigidity. It feels so on road with excellent steering response, a somewhat effortless SUV to drive with 250Nm of torque from as low as 1600 revs. The ST-L a nice choice for a small family however at $45,900 drive-away not the most affordable small SUV but its quality, well equipped and nicely packaged apart from the lack of a rear power door, just so handy when shopping. I’m David Berthon

A weekly show with all the latest information and news in the motoring industry. Hosted by 2GB's very own motoring corespondent David Berthon. 

For more engaging content visit the 2GB website, or listen live to 2GB 873.

A weekly show with all the latest information and news in the motoring industry. Hosted by 2GB's very own motoring corespondent David Berthon.&nbsp;
For more engaging content visit the 2GB website, or listen live to 2GB 873.

Motor Torque with David Berthon

A weekly show with all the latest information and news in the motoring industry. Hosted by 2GB's very own motoring corespondent David Berthon. 

For more engaging content visit the 2GB website, or listen live to 2GB 873 

A weekly show with all the latest information and news in the motoring industry. Hosted by 2GB's very own motoring corespondent David Berthon.&nbsp;
For more engaging content visit the 2GB website, or listen live to 2GB 873&nbsp;