Nissan to launch more efficient e-Power hybrid Qashqai in September

Nissan is introducing a next-generation version of its e-Power hybrid powertrain in the Qashqai ready for the September plate-change.

The updated system delivers lower emissions and better fuel economy, with official figures showing CO2 reduced from 116g/km to 102g/km, and fuel economy improved from 53mpg to 62mpg. This gives the Qashqai a theoretical range of 745 miles on a full tank.

The 1.5-litre petrol engine continues to operate solely as a generator, powering the electric motor or charging the battery.

As before, the vehicle is driven entirely by the electric motor, offering EV-like smoothness.

Nissan has developed a new five-in-one modular powertrain unit, which combines the electric motor, generator, inverter, reducer and increaser in a compact and lighter package.

Power is also up by 11kW to a total of 151kW, while battery capacity remains at 2.1kWh.

Despite using a similar 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder layout as the outgoing version, the engine is all-new and dedicated to its role in the e-Power system.

It uses Nissan’s Starc combustion concept to lift thermal efficiency to 42%, helping it run more quietly and efficiently at low speeds.

Other upgrades include a larger turbo, which allows lower engine speeds on the motorway, further cutting noise and improving real-world efficiency.

Customers will also benefit from longer service intervals, now extended from 9,000 to 12,000 miles.

Clíodhna Lyons, region vice president for product and services planning at Nissan, said the upgrade represents an important step in Nissan’s electrification strategy and supports customers on their journey to EVs.

She said: “This generation of e-Power delivers improved efficiency without compromising performance. It offers a refined, everyday EV-like drive with no change to how drivers live with their vehicle. It is a key step in our electrification roadmap.”

Prices for the new Qashqai ePower will be revealed later this summer before it launches in September.