- Over 3m units of Qashqai sold in Europe; 5m worldwide
- Nissan’s pioneering crossover created new segment and has been the reference since 2007
- New Qashqai elevates driving and ownership experience for third generation
PARIS, France – In 2007, when the Qashqai was introduced there was nothing else like it on the road. Its seating position was a little higher, allowing a better view down the road, but its overall footprint was the same as its C-segment hatchback peers. Its petrol and diesel engine options were frugal and efficient, but there was an all-wheel drive version for those customers who needed the extra traction in challenging conditions. In summary, it offered an excellent balance between the compact dimensions of a hatchback, with the sense of robustness and elevated view afforded by a traditional four-wheel drive, without the size, weight or efficiency penalty. In doing so, it delivered the best of both worlds by breaking down the barriers to SUV ownership.
Forecasting sales of a new vehicle which wasn’t a direct replacement of an existing model and for which there were no direct competitors was a challenge. Overall, the internal sales estimates were in the region of 100,000 units per year in Europe.
The estimates fell short of the reality. Within months, an additional shift was added at Nissan’s factory in Sunderland, UK, to meet demand.
Its sales continued to increase year on year – and its appeal was extended when the Qashqai+2 was released in 2008, adding a foldable third row of seats in a larger trunk thanks to its longer wheelbase.
An extensive facelift took place in 2010 which upgraded the exterior, particularly from the frontal aspect, reflecting that a high proportion of Qashqai customers were coming from upper segments. By the time of its replacement in 2014 by the second generation Qashqai, 17 direct competitors had followed Nissan to market with their own crossovers.
Despite the arrival of many European competitors, the first generation Qashqai sold in excess of 200,000 units per year on average throughout its life.
The second generation Qashqai went on sale in Europe in 2014, with a more striking design and more efficient engines, more refinement and more convenient technology. The second generation Qashqai broke a record, being the fastest UK-produced vehicle to reach the landmark of 500,000 units produced.
To date, over 3m units of Qashqai have been sold in Europe – and over 5m globally.
There are now 26 direct competitors to the current Qashqai in Europe. Where Qashqai was the pioneer of this automotive formula, it is now a segment in its own right – a segment which continues to grow annually. When it arrives this summer, the all-new Qashqai will elevate the bar again and set the standard in the segment with striking attraction, comfort, refinement, efficiency and convenient technology.
“When I look at the history of the Qashqai from 2007, it demonstrates the best of Nissan. We have a tradition of taking our own direction, being innovative and challenging convention. Few brands can say they invented a new segment in the automotive industry, but it’s a statement we make proudly. With millions of satisfied customers and now many competitors who followed us, we remain the benchmark for understanding the unmet needs of European car buyers. The third generation of Qashqai will reinforce our leadership in crossovers design, technology and efficient performance – precisely what our customers are looking for,” said Jordi Vila, Divisional Vice President, Marketing & Sales, Nissan Automotive Europe.
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