Our Fleet: Nissan Qashqai 1.6 dCi N-Tec + - June 2012

As Simon Harris explained in the last report, the latest version of the Nissan Qashqai, was designed, engineered and built all in the UK and you cannot help but feel patriotic about it, especially considering the success the Qashqai has had since its launch in 2005.

The SUV sector has seen some rapid growth over the past couple of years and the Qashqai has become one of the best selling cars in the UK. It also won Best Crossover at this year’s Fleet News Awards, beating the critically acclaimed Range Rover Evoque and Kia Sportage so I was very excited to receive the keys and see for myself what all the fuss is about.

So was it a worthy winner?

Definitely. The Qashqai is a joy to drive with excellent handling. The 130bhp provides ample performance and the 1.6dci engine has returned surprising fuel economy. I have easily surpassed the official figure of 62.8mpg on several occasions and even gone over 70mpg on a trip to Birmingham which included motorway driving, to achieve the figure so easily is a glowing accolade to Nissan.

Our long termer comes with the new N-Tec+ equipment grade which includes satellite navigation, which for me, is a very welcomes addition. The Qashqai also includes 18 inch allow wheels, 360 degrees camera system and a panoramic glass roof, which is an added bonus with the recent sunny weather we have been having, albeit takes an age for the cover to disappear.

I have initially been surprised and impressed by the Qashqai and, as an all-round fleet package, would be quick to recommend it. With BIK tax at 17% and CO2 emissions of 119g/km, the Qashqai offers a competitive package against its over lower medium rivals.

The only negative I can find so far is you cannot seem to drive down a street without seeing another one.