Nissan Qashqai e-POWER hybrid updated for power and efficiency gains

Nissan has updated the Qashqai e-POWER hybrid, with lower cabin noise, more power in sport mode, and efficiency gains.

A new modular powertrain unit has been developed, with five electric drive components integrated into a single unit, reducing weight, and increasing power to 205PS.

As before, it is not a plug-in hybrid, and the wheels are exclusively driven by the electric motor, with the combustion engine only used to charge the battery.

The 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine has been redesigned specifically for hybrid applications, with a larger turbocharger, and increased thermal efficiency through a new combustion concept.

The previous engine’s variable compression ratio technology, a technology pioneered and only used by Nissan, has been discontinued, as other efficiency gains rendered it unnecessary.

A switch to 0W16 engine oil also helps efficiency, reducing internal friction, and extending service intervals from 9,000 to 12,000 miles.

Battery capacity remains at 2.1kWh, but the powertrain changes provide 16% better real-world fuel economy, with the WLTP testing programme returning 62mpg, and a range of 745 miles.

The Qashqai e-POWER’s CO2 emissions have been lowered too, down 12% to 102g/km.