by Nissan Qashqai – one of the key models in the current lineup of the Japanese brand. Over 11 years, more than 2.5 million Qashqais have been produced. It is the most popular crossover in Europe, and now it is also sold in the USA under the name Rogue Sport. 
Last year, the Nissan crossover underwent a comprehensive overhaul, and we have previously become acquainted with the updated diesel model with front-wheel drive. Now we have the opportunity to test the all-wheel-drive gasoline Nissan Qashqai 2018 in the top Tekna version.
We decided to test the car on a journey exceeding 500 km. 
To begin with, let’s take a look at the new Nissan Qashqai. It is easily distinguishable from last year’s model by its more modern front end with a V-shaped grille and arrow-shaped headlights. The test vehicle features adaptive LED optics, and 18-inch alloy wheels, previously unavailable for the Qashqai, are installed. Upon closer inspection, you can also notice that the taillights have become more sculpted, intended to improve aerodynamics.
Inside, the new steering wheel with a flat bottom rim stands out. New front seats are also installed. In the Tekna version, they are upholstered in Nappa leather with a three-dimensional pattern and are equipped with electric adjustment, and the driver’s seat even has a memory for settings. 
Acquainted – it’s time to hit the road. The route is laid through the historic sites of Cherkasy region.
First – the mystical Cold Ravine, where the main events of Koliivshchyna and the Ukrainian Revolution of 1918-1922 took place. Then our road leads to the homeland of Bohdan Khmelnytsky in Subotov and Chyhyryn, where the hetman set up his capital and built a residence. 
The places are indeed interesting but not very promoted. And we can understand why, as sometimes the local roads are disappointing. Although from Kyiv to Cherkasy, the highway is quite decent.
At speeds of 110-120 km/h, the Nissan Qashqai 2018 becomes quieter, as the cabin soundproofing has been improved. 
Outside the city, the 2.0-liter 144 hp engine in Eco mode consumes 7.5-7.8 l/100 km. However, in this case, the gas pedal is less sensitive, and for overtaking, it needs to be pushed hard and the engine revved. Moreover, the maximum 200 Nm of torque is reached at a high 4400 rpm. The continuously variable transmission is well-tuned and tries to keep the revs lower.
By the way, in the city, the Nissan crossover consumed 10-11 l/100 km. 
There was no need to drive off-road, although with a ground clearance of 200 mm and switchable all-wheel drive, there should be no problems on easy off-road terrains. At speeds up to 40 km/h, the rear axle can be forcibly engaged. 
After Cherkasy, the highway becomes much worse, and it is sometimes impossible to avoid potholes. Nevertheless, credit must be given to the suspension: it handles irregularities well, and even with 18-inch wheels, the ride is comfortable.
However, not all potholes are absorbed quietly. 
It should also be noted that the front seats are very comfortable, and after several hundred kilometers on our roads, there is no fatigue. On the second row, three adults of average build will not be cramped on a long journey, although tall passengers might feel it. And the 439-liter trunk (now with a multi-level floor and organizer) is more than sufficient to take all the necessary road essentials with you. 
In Cold Ravine, the road is winding – just like a mountain serpent.
By crossover standards, the new Nissan Qashqai doesn’t lean too much in turns. However, not very informative steering immediately reminds us that we are not in a sports car but in a family vehicle. 
Pleasantly surprising is the lane-keeping system — it even recognizes the rather worn road markings in the vicinity of Chyhyryn. The speed limit recognition technology handles its duties without issues. Among the nuances are the curves of the body, which look beautiful, but on our roads can be easily damaged or scratched.
Therefore, in this case, car wrap is definitely not superfluous. 
In general, Nissan Qashqai 2018 performed well in a long journey. The crossover is comfortable and spacious for its class, and the 2.0-liter engine has moderate fuel consumption. 
You can buy a Nissan Qashqai in Ukraine at a price starting from 541,450 UAH. The tested Nissan crossover with a 2.0-liter engine in the Tekna version costs 795,470 UAH for the 2017 model and 926,770 UAH – for the 2018 model.
