Nissan launches the Qashqai e-Power, a hybrid of a new kind

Nissan has just added a new hybrid version of the Qashqai to its catalog. What’s special about this one? It has a thermal engine, but it doesn’t drive the wheels!

The hybrid system of the Qashqai e-Power was launched in the Japanese market in 2016. With it, the vehicle is propelled by the electric motor, not by the thermal engine. The latter acts as a generator. Its role is to produce the energy used by the electric motor, which then transmits it to the front wheels.

For the thermal part, Nissan chose a 3-cylinder turbo engine with variable compression. It displaces 1.5 liters and produces 158 hp. The electric motor delivers 190 hp and 330 Nm of torque. Fuel consumption ranges between 5.3 and 5.4 liters / 100 km depending on the trim level.

No tax penalty for now

With CO2 emissions between 119 and 123 grams per kilometer, the Qashqai e-Power remains less efficient than a plug-in hybrid model, but it currently avoids any tax penalty. However, versions emitting at 123 grams will be subject to a small €50 penalty under the 2023 tax scale.

The Qashqai e-Power features Nissan’s e-Pedal Step system, which allows the driver to avoid using the brake pedal in certain situations. When activated, the vehicle slows slightly whenever the driver lifts off the accelerator. Deceleration stops at 5 km/h. The system’s goal is twofold: to facilitate city driving and maximize energy recovery.

Fares near €40,000 in the base trim

Prices for the Qashqai e-Power start at €38,200. The offer includes four trims: Acenta, N-Connecta, Tekna, and Tekna+. The price rises to €46,000 without options for the top trim. Compared to the 158 XTronic Mild-Hybrid version, the additional cost of the Qashqai e-Power is €1,300. The first units will be delivered in September.

Read also: Restyled Toyota Corolla: more horsepower for the hybrid compact