DYNAMICS

2013/11/07

DYNAMICS

Chassis

Underneath the new Qashqai’s sleek body is a new modular platform that has been tailored specifically for the second-generation crossover. The highly advanced, Alliance-developed structure is one of the most adaptable platform systems in existence, giving designers and engineers the opportunity to perfectly tailor the car to customer needs.

The vast majority of the new Qashqai’s upper body was designed and engineered in Europe. As a result, the new Qashqai feels perfectly at home on European roads, with ride and handling standards that exceed sector expectations in every area.

In terms of suspension layout, the new Qashqai features MacPherson struts at the front and one of two different designs at the rear. Two-wheel-drive models are equipped with an advanced twist beam design, while models fitted with ALL-MODE 4x4-i feature a multi-link system. The Qashqai’s suspension system has developed in Europe to deliver the kind of smooth and responsive driving experience Nissan customers have come to expect.

As with the rest of the car, the new Qashqai features a host of engineering innovations designed to make life easier, more comfortable and more enjoyable for drivers and passengers.

Double piston shock absorbers

Creating a car with good low-speed ride and the ability to handle rough surfaces usually involves a compromise in set-up. Not so with the new Qashqai. The second generation model is equipped with advanced double-piston shock absorbers that deliver faultless damping at both ends of the dynamic range. The two channel system features a conventional channel that handles the kind of lowfrequency bumps found on rough roads, and an additional channel that deals with the kind of small high-frequency bumps found on smoother roads. The end result is a car that delivers a smooth a refined ride whatever the road surface.

Next-generation power steering

During development stages of the Qashqai, every element of the car’s dynamic package was examined to see if improvements could be made. The steering, for example, has been completely redesigned and re-engineered, with a new Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) steering introduced across the range.

The system has been tuned with a new control logic that delivers a more natural driving experience, thanks in part to a five per cent reduction in overall steering ratio to improve responsiveness.

Of course, creating a great steering system is more than just fine-tuning the assistance system. To help give the Qashqai an even more natural driving experience, and improve further straight line stability, the caster trail of the front suspension has been lengthened. By creating a longer caster trail, the front wheels have a more positive self-centring action, resulting in better feel through the steering wheel.

Your steering, how you like it

Nissan knows that different drivers like different levels of steering feedback. While some prefer a light feel that requires minimal effort, others like the heavier feedback normally associated with sportier cars. To meet these unique demands, Nissan has created a two-mode steering system that drivers can switch between, depending on their mood or preference.

In Normal mode, the Qashqai offers light responses that are perfectly suited to urban driving, lowspeed manoeuvring and effortless cruising. In Sport mode, the EPAS system provides more feedback to the driver and requires more steering effort to turn.

ALL-MODE 4x4-i & Chassis Control

Drivers opting for the ALL-MODE 4x4-i transmission option benefit from one of the most advanced four-wheel-drive systems on the market, which is designed to offer maximum security and traction in all conditions.

The Chassis Control system on both two and four-wheel drive versions takes vehicle dynamics one step further combining three elements.

Active Ride Control monitors the wheel speed to detect undulations which could potentially upset the pitch of the car body and applies subtle braking to compensate.

Active Engine Brake, meanwhile, harnesses the power and controllability of the Xtronic transmission to add a degree of engine braking while cornering. The benefits are greater braking control and enhanced feel with less pedal effort along with less brake application when cornering and greater braking feel when coming to a stop.

Active Trace Control monitors the behaviour and trajectory of the car, and applies subtle braking to deliver a function similar to a Limited Slip Differential, providing the best traction and the least understeer. This highly intelligent system works seamlessly with the driver, to deliver an agile and secure driving experience.

Hill Start Assist Pulling away on an incline is no longer a stressful operation thanks to a new system developed specifically for the new Qashqai. Hill Start Assist works with the car’s ESP system to ensure a fussfree launch. By applying the brakes to all four wheels, the car is held stationary for two to three seconds when on an incline. The brakes are released when drive is fed through to the wheels.