Nissan’s Sunderland plant has begun production of the new and improved Qashqai, the UK’s highest-volume vehicle and original crossover. Marking nearly 18 years since the first Qashqai launch, this latest iteration features significant technological enhancements and a bold new design, maintaining its status as a market leader.
The new Qashqai, now equipped with Nissan’s unique e-POWER system, sees production commence following a £30 million investment in the plant, part of Nissan’s total £6 billion UK investment. The upgraded model, which can be ordered starting next month, comes with a starting price of £30,135.Adam Pennick, Nissan’s Vice President for Manufacturing in the UK, expressed pride in Sunderland being the home of the Qashqai, highlighting the advanced driver assistance systems and integrated Google built-in technology as key features of the refreshed model.
The Sunderland plant also produces the Nissan JUKE and all-electric LEAF, supporting 7,000 jobs locally and an additional 30,000 across the UK supply chain. The new Qashqai aligns with Nissan’s EV36Zero vision, a pioneering project aiming for zero emissions driving and manufacturing, ensuring a sustainable future for the automotive industry.Diana Torres, Managing Director of Nissan GB, stated, “The original Qashqai pioneered the crossover category and remains a favorite. These latest upgrades will reinforce its status as one of the UK’s top new cars.”